Some desserts make you pause, smile, and quietly thank the baker. Caramel Cookie Bars with Peanut Butter belong in that category. Think: a chewy cookie base, gooey caramel filling, and a subtle nutty touch — irresistible, right?

This recipe is not fussy. It leans on pantry staples, keeps things simple, and promises a sweet bite worth every crumb. Let’s walk through it together — warm, fun, and deliciously casual.

Why These Bars Stand Out

Dessert bars are everywhere, but pairing caramel’s golden richness with peanut butter’s creamy charm feels magical. It’s that classic salty-sweet balance we never tire of.

And here’s the best part: the recipe doesn’t take hours. In under 30 minutes of prep, you’re halfway to dessert heaven. That means no waiting around forever just to enjoy them.

Ingredients Needed for the Recipe

• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour – makes the cookie dough sturdy yet soft.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – ensures the dough rises lightly.
• 1 teaspoon salt – balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
• 1 cup butter, softened – adds creaminess and richness.
• ¾ cup sugar – for sweetness and tenderness.
• ¾ cup packed brown sugar – makes the dough chewy and deep in flavor.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – that classic cookie aroma.
• 2 eggs, room temperature – binds everything together.
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips – melty goodness in every bite.
• 5 ounces evaporated milk – smooth texture for the caramel sauce.
• 1 bag (14 oz) caramels – the star layer, sticky and bold.
• ½ cup peanut butter – creamy nutty bonus.

Every ingredient works like a puzzle piece. Leave one out, and you’ll taste the difference. But entire swaps are always possible — more on that soon.

Ingredient Substitutions

No peanut butter? Swap almond or cashew butter for a twist. Even sunflower butter works if you want nut-free but still crave creaminess.

Only got milk chocolate chips? Toss them in. Or dark chocolate if you want a richer bite. The recipe is flexible, so play around with what you have on hand.

How to make Caramel Cookie Bars with Peanut Butter?

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Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish so nothing sticks. It’s the foundation for perfection.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

In one bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, and salt. In another, beat butter with sugars until fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla — this makes the dough rich and smooth. Slowly mix in dry ingredients, then fold in chocolate chips.

Step 3: Build the Base Layer

Press half of the dough into the prepared pan. Spread evenly, making sure corners don’t go uncovered. Bake for 8–10 minutes until slightly firm but not fully set.

Step 4: Melt Caramel & Peanut Butter

In a double boiler, melt the caramels with evaporated milk. Once silky smooth, stir in peanut butter until glowing and golden. This is the magic filling layer.

Step 5: Pour & Layer

Spread that warm caramel-peanut butter mixture over the baked cookie base. Don’t rush — every inch deserves caramel love.

Step 6: Add Top Cookie Layer

Take the remaining dough and drop spoonfuls over the caramel layer. Leave gaps — they’ll spread out beautifully in the oven.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Back into the oven they go, for about 15–20 minutes. Top should be golden and slightly cracked, caramel peeking through like treasure.

Step 8: Cool & Slice

Patience is key. Let the bars cool fully, otherwise you’ll face caramel lava spilled everywhere. Once cooled, slice into generous squares.

Best Time to Serve This Dish

There’s no wrong time for these bars, honestly. But they truly shine at potlucks — they disappear faster than you can say “dessert!”

They’re also dreamy after dinner, paired with a tall glass of milk or even a bold cup of coffee. Midnight snacks? Don’t even ask — they’re perfect.

Pairing Ideas

A scoop of vanilla ice cream makes every bar extra indulgent. The cold cream against warm caramel? Heavenly.

For something lighter, just add a glass of cold milk or a cappuccino. The bars carry enough sweetness that you don’t need much else on the side.

Tips

Give the bars time to rest before slicing. The caramel needs to set, otherwise it’ll run everywhere.

If you don’t own a double boiler, don’t panic. Just place a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water, and it works the same way.

Want neat slices? Chill them for 15 minutes in the fridge before cutting — it makes clean edges without caramel smears.

How to Store and Reheat

Keep the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you’re worried they won’t last, trust me… they will vanish before then.

To freeze, slice into squares, wrap each piece tightly, and store in a freezer-safe bag. A quick reheat in the microwave brings them back to gooey glory.

Final Thoughts

Caramel Cookie Bars with Peanut Butter aren’t just dessert — they’re a warm memory waiting to happen. Sweet, gooey, just a little nutty, they strike all the right notes.

Whether you serve them at a gathering or keep a batch tucked away for yourself, these bars prove that the best desserts don’t need complicated steps. They just need good ingredients, a little patience, and someone ready to enjoy.

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Caramel Cookie Bars with Peanut Butter Recipe

Author: Elly Cooking Method: Baking Cuisine: American Courses: Desserts Recipe Keys: C crowd-pleaser G gooey P peanut butter lover

Difficulty: easy Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 30 mins Rest Time 30 mins Total Time 1 hr 15 mins

Cooking Temp: 191  C Servings: 12 Estimated Cost: $ 10 Calories: 380

Best Season: all year

Description

These Knock You Naked Bars are the ultimate indulgent dessert—rich, gooey caramel sandwiched between layers of soft chocolate chip cookie dough, with a hint of peanut butter that takes them over the top. Known for their irresistible flavor and ease of preparation, these bars are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at potlucks, parties, or as a weekend treat for the family. Ready in under an hour and packed with decadent layers, they’re called 'Knock You Naked' for a reason!

Ingredients

Servings

Cookie Bars

• 2 ¹⁄₄ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup butter (softened)
• ³⁄₄ cup sugar
• ³⁄₄ cup packed brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 eggs (room temperature)
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or your favorite variety)

Caramel Sauce

• 5 ounces evaporated milk (about 2/3 cup)
• 1 bag caramels (14 oz, unwrapped)
• ¹⁄₂ cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (191°C). Generously grease a 9x13-inch baking pan and set aside.
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2. In a small bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
   Mark as complete
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter, sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
   Mark as complete
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
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5. Press half of the cookie dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then remove from oven.
   Mark as complete
6. While the base bakes, prepare the caramel layer: Melt caramels and evaporated milk in a double boiler over low heat, stirring frequently. Once melted, stir in peanut butter until smooth.
   If you don’t have a double boiler, use a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water.
   Mark as complete
7. Spread the warm caramel mixture evenly over the partially baked cookie base.
   Mark as complete
8. Drop spoonfuls of the remaining cookie dough on top of the caramel layer, gently pressing down to cover as much as possible.
   Mark as complete
9. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the top is light golden brown. The center may still look soft but will set as it cools.
   Mark as complete
10. Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan (at least 30 minutes) before slicing. This helps the caramel layer set and prevents oozing.
    Mark as complete

Nutrition Facts

Servings 12

Serving Size 1 bar

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 380kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 18g28%

Saturated Fat 10g50%

Cholesterol 45mg15%

Sodium 280mg12%

Potassium 150mg5%

Total Carbohydrate 52g18%

Dietary Fiber 2g8%

Sugars 34g

Protein 5g10%

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Calcium 80 mg

Iron 2 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

• Make-Ahead Tip: These bars can be made 1–2 days ahead. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
• Freezing: Slice bars and wrap individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.
• Serving Suggestion: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of extra caramel for a decadent dessert.
• Storage: Keep at room temperature for 3–4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze.
• Pro Tip: Use room temperature eggs and butter for a smoother, creamier dough.
• Doubled Batch? Yes! These are so popular, you might want to double the recipe for parties or gifts.

Keywords: caramel cookie bars, Knock You Naked Bars, peanut butter caramel bars, easy dessert bars, chocolate chip bars, gooey caramel bars, no-fail dessert, Julie Eats and Treats