Cookie Butter Bars

There’s something utterly delightful about the combination of cookie butter and a chewy, buttery base that makes these Cookie Butter Bars a must-try. With just the right amount of sweetness and a hint of nostalgia, these bars are perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a cozy treat at home. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, these bars are sure to impress. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special and how you can whip up a batch in no time!

What Makes This Recipe Special

These Cookie Butter Bars are a sweet homage to your favorite cookies, bringing together the rich, spiced flavors of cookie butter with a chewy oat base. The addition of chocolate chips adds an extra layer of indulgence, making every bite a little piece of heaven. Not only are they simple to make, but they also come together quickly, making them a perfect option for last-minute gatherings or a comforting dessert after dinner.

What You’ll Gather

• 12 tablespoons unsalted butter – at room temperature, for that creamy richness.
• 3/4 cup light brown sugar – firmly packed, to give a caramel-like flavor.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances the overall sweetness and aroma.
• 1 cup old-fashioned oats – not steel-cut or quick oats, for the perfect chewy texture.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – helps the bars rise and achieve a soft texture.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness beautifully.
• 1-1/4 cups all-purpose flour – forms the base of the bars.
• 1 cup cookie butter – or Biscoff spread, the star of the show.
• 1 cup milk chocolate chips – or semi-sweet or dark, depending on your preference.

Gear Checklist

• Mixing bowls – for combining your ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons – accuracy is key in baking!
• Spatula or wooden spoon – for mixing your dough.
• 9×13-inch baking pan – where the magic happens!
• Parchment paper – for easy removal and clean-up.
• Oven – preheated to 350°F (175°C) for baking.

Cookie Butter Bars Cooking Guide

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Cookie Butter Bars bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later. This little trick makes cutting and serving a breeze!

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the 12 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 3/4 cup of light brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes with a hand mixer or stand mixer.

Step 4: Add Vanilla

Add in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix until combined. The aroma will be irresistible!

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the 1 cup of old-fashioned oats, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1-1/4 cups of all-purpose flour. This mixture will create the foundation for your bars.

Step 6: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter and sugar mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want your bars to remain tender!

Step 7: Fold in Cookie Butter and Chocolate Chips

Now it’s time for the star ingredient! Fold in 1 cup of cookie butter and 1 cup of chocolate chips. The cookie butter will create a rich, creamy texture that will make these bars unforgettable.

Step 8: Spread into the Pan

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Don’t worry about making it perfect; the bars will level out as they bake.

Step 9: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, use the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the pan and let them cool completely on a wire rack. Once cool, cut into squares and enjoy!

Seasonal Spins

• Pumpkin Spice Cookie Butter Bars: Add 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree and 1 teaspoon of pumpkin spice to the batter for a fall-inspired treat.
• Mint Chocolate Cookie Butter Bars: Fold in 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract and use mint chocolate chips for a refreshing twist.
• Peanut Butter Cookie Butter Bars: Substitute half of the cookie butter with peanut butter for a nutty flavor.
• Caramel Drizzle Cookie Butter Bars: Drizzle caramel sauce on top after baking for an extra indulgent touch.

Slip-Ups to Skip

• Don’t rush the butter and sugar creaming process; it’s crucial for the bars’ texture.
• Avoid using quick oats or steel-cut oats; they won’t provide the right chewiness.
• Make sure your baking soda is fresh; expired baking soda can affect the rise.
• Don’t overbake! Keep an eye on the bars, as they can go from perfectly baked to overdone quickly.

Best Ways to Store

Store your Cookie Butter Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want them to last a bit longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them up in the microwave for a few seconds.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use a different type of cookie butter?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different flavors of cookie butter, like almond or speculoos, to create a unique twist on this recipe.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it’s a one-to-one ratio substitute for the best results.

How can I make these bars vegan?

You can replace the butter with a vegan butter alternative and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) instead of the egg, if your recipe calls for one. Be sure to choose a vegan cookie butter as well.

What can I use instead of chocolate chips?

If you prefer, you can leave out the chocolate chips or substitute them with dried fruits, nuts, or even white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

These Cookie Butter Bars are truly a delightful treat that combines the comforting flavors of cookie butter with a chewy, satisfying base. They are simple to make and can easily be customized for any occasion or preference. Whether you choose to enjoy them as they are or experiment with seasonal spins, one thing is for sure: these bars will quickly become a favorite in your household. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to indulge in the deliciousness of Cookie Butter Bars!