Triple Peanut Butter Monster Cookie Bars Recipe

If you’re a peanut butter lover like me, then you are absolutely going to adore these Triple Peanut Butter Monster Cookie Bars. They are a decadent, chewy, and utterly satisfying treat packed with not one, not two, but three different types of peanut butter delights. Imagine creamy peanut butter mixed right into the batter, rich peanut butter chips melting through every bite, and those colorful Peanut Butter M&Ms sprinkled throughout for a fun crunch and pop of color. These bars bring an explosion of peanut buttery goodness that’s hard to resist and perfect for sharing with friends or indulging in all by yourself.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is wonderfully straightforward, using simple yet essential ingredients that each bring something special to these bars. Each component enhances the taste, texture, or appearance, making the Triple Peanut Butter Monster Cookie Bars as irresistible as they are easy to whip up.

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and moisture for a chewy texture.
• 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together perfectly for structure.
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed: Gives a deep, caramel-like sweetness and helps keep the bars soft.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warm, fragrant notes.
• Heaping ½ cup creamy peanut butter: The heart of these bars, bringing smooth and nutty flavor—use store-bought creamy for best results.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides just the right amount of structure without making bars cakey.
• 1 cup Peanut Butter M&Ms: Adds vibrant color and a satisfying crunch.
• ¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks: Balances the peanut butter with pockets of rich chocolate.
• ½ cup Reese’s Peanut Butter Chips: Infuses extra bursts of peanut buttery sweetness.
• ⅓ cup Heath Bar Toffee Bits: Introduces a delightful crunchy toffee surprise to every bite.

How to Make Triple Peanut Butter Monster Cookie Bars

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line an 8-by-8 inch baking pan with aluminum foil and spray it lightly with cooking spray. Preparing your pan this way ensures that the cookie bars will lift out easily once baked without any sticking drama.

Step 2: Melt Butter and Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the unsalted butter by heating it for about one minute on high power. Then, wait a moment to let it cool slightly, so when you add the egg it doesn’t cook or scramble. Add the egg, packed light brown sugar, and vanilla extract next. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This blend forms the luscious base that holds the cookie bars together.

Step 3: Incorporate Peanut Butter

Add your heaping half cup of creamy peanut butter to the wet mixture and whisk or stir until fully combined. This step is where the magic begins, infusing that unmistakable peanut butter flavor right into the batter.

Step 4: Add Flour and Mix Inclusions

Gradually stir in the all-purpose flour just until incorporated—be careful not to overmix here to keep your bars tender. Next, fold in the Peanut Butter M&Ms, semi-sweet chocolate chips, Reese’s Peanut Butter Chips, and Heath Bar Toffee Bits, distributing these delicious chunks evenly throughout the batter.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Transfer the batter to your prepared pan and smooth the surface lightly with a spatula. For an extra pretty finish, strategically place a few Peanut Butter M&Ms on top. Bake for approximately 25 minutes, until the edges are firm and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. Let the bars cool completely in the pan, at least 30 minutes, before slicing into generous squares.

How to Serve Triple Peanut Butter Monster Cookie Bars

Garnishes

For an extra pop of fun and to highlight the colorful M&Ms, sprinkle a handful on top right before serving. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted peanut butter or chocolate can also dress these bars up beautifully for special occasions.

Side Dishes

These cookie bars pair perfectly with a cold glass of milk or a steaming cup of coffee or tea. For a more indulgent spread, serve alongside vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to turn your snack into a dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the Triple Peanut Butter Monster Cookie Bars into bite-sized squares and serving them on a decorative platter at your next party. Another idea is to sandwich a scoop of ice cream between two bars and press gently for an irresistible homemade cookie ice cream sandwich.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store your cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and chewy for up to one week, which means you can savor these delights throughout the week without worry.

Freezing

If you want to keep them longer, wrap the bars tightly and freeze them for up to six months. When you’re ready for a treat, just thaw them at room temperature or gently warm in the microwave.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-from-the-oven feel, reheat individual bars in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds. The chocolate and peanut butter chips will melt slightly, making each bite gooey and irresistible again.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?

Natural peanut butter tends to be runnier and may alter the texture of the bars, making them too soft or greasy. For the best results, stick with creamy, store-bought peanut butter like Jif or Skippy.

Are the Triple Peanut Butter Monster Cookie Bars gluten-free?

The original recipe uses all-purpose flour, so these aren’t gluten-free as is. However, you can substitute a gluten-free flour blend for the same measurements and still enjoy delicious bars.

Can I substitute the Peanut Butter M&Ms with regular M&Ms or another candy?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with regular M&Ms, Reese’s Pieces, or even chopped peanut butter cups depending on what you have on hand or prefer.

How thick should the cookie bars be before baking?

This recipe is designed for an 8-by-8 inch pan, which gives a nice thickness that’s chewy and satisfying. Using a larger pan might result in thinner bars that bake faster; adjust baking time accordingly.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, doubling the ingredients and using a 9-by-13 inch pan works perfectly. Just keep an eye on the baking time—larger pans may require a few extra minutes in the oven.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a cookie bar that delivers on peanut butter flavor in the most fun and satisfying way possible, the Triple Peanut Butter Monster Cookie Bars are your new best friend. They’re easy to make, super versatile, and loved by everyone who tries them. So grab your mixing bowl and give them a go—you won’t be disappointed!

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