Get ready to indulge in a truly irresistible dessert that will quickly become a cherished favorite: **Loaded Reese’s Peanut Butter Bars**. Imagine a treat so incredibly soft, wonderfully thick, and bursting with the rich, creamy flavor of peanut butter, perfectly complemented by a delightful medley of luscious white chocolate chips, an extra generous helping of peanut butter chips, and, of course, abundant amounts of classic Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and colorful Reese’s Pieces candy. This isn’t just a dessert; it’s a peanut butter enthusiast’s ultimate dream, meticulously crafted to deliver maximum flavor and an unforgettable texture in every single bite.

These bars elevate the beloved appeal of peanut butter to an entirely new dimension, transforming simple ingredients into a confectionery masterpiece. They evoke the comforting nostalgia of other fantastic peanut butter creations you might adore, such as our comprehensive guide to 30 Peanut Butter & Candy Desserts, the whimsical charm of Reese’s Pieces Magic Bars, the indulgent delight of Sheet Pan Peanut Butter Chocolate Blondie Dream Bars, and the universally loved Sheet Pan Perfect Peanut Butter Cup Cookie Bars! However, these Loaded Reese’s Peanut Butter Bars stand proudly unique for their incredible density and the sheer abundance of everyone’s favorite peanut butter candy embedded throughout.

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Irresistible Loaded Reese’s Peanut Butter Bars: Your New Go-To Dessert Recipe

Prepare to fall head over heels for these incredibly delicious and surprisingly easy-to-make Loaded Reese’s Peanut Butter Bars. Whether you’re a lifelong devotee of peanut butter or simply seeking that perfect sweet indulgence, these bars deliver on every front. From their chewy, melt-in-your-mouth texture to the explosion of flavor from every piece of Reese’s candy, they are truly special and destined to become a staple in your baking repertoire. They offer the ideal blend of sweetness, saltiness, and a satisfying richness that makes them utterly addictive.

Why You’ll Absolutely Adore These Reese’s Loaded Peanut Butter Bars

There are countless reasons why these delightful peanut butter bars will quickly earn a permanent spot in your recipe book. Their straightforward preparation, coupled with their phenomenal taste and widespread appeal, makes them an unbeatable choice for virtually any occasion.

Effortless Preparation for All Skill Levels: This recipe is remarkably easy to follow, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels—from novice home cooks to seasoned dessert aficionados. You absolutely do not need to be a pastry chef to create these show-stopping bars. With clear, simple steps and common pantry ingredients, you’ll have a batch of these delectable treats mixed and ready for the oven in surprisingly little time, leaving you more time to enjoy the delicious results.
A Dream for Peanut Butter Lovers: These bars are not just “peanut butter” bars; they are quite literally *loaded* with every conceivable form of peanut butter goodness you could ever crave. We’re talking about creamy peanut butter forming the tender base, complemented by luscious peanut butter chips scattered throughout, and then crowned with generous amounts of iconic Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and vibrant, crunchy Reese’s Pieces. It’s an unparalleled, multi-textured explosion of peanut butter flavor that guarantees to satisfy even the most intense cravings.
Bakery-Quality Taste, Homemade Comfort: Inspired by our highly acclaimed “Phenomenal” Milk Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies, this bar recipe takes that beloved cookie base and ingeniously transforms it into a thick, chewy bar format. The result is a treat that boasts a gourmet, indulgent quality often found in high-end bakeries, yet it carries the comforting warmth and undeniable charm that only a homemade classic can offer. Each bite feels special, yet familiar.
Perfectly Versatile for Any Celebration: These bars are the ultimate crowd-pleasing party dessert. Their vibrant colors, especially from the Reese’s Pieces, and universally loved flavor make them an instant hit at any gathering. From spooky Halloween parties and joyful birthday celebrations to casual tailgating events, festive Thanksgiving dessert spreads, or simply a cozy weekend baking session, these bars fit right in. While their delightful autumn-inspired hues make them particularly appealing for fall themes, the truth is, who would ever turn down a Reese’s treat any time of year? They are truly incredibly delicious and tempting in every season!
Achieve Perfect Texture Every Time: When made correctly, following our precise instructions and tips, these bars boast an ideal soft, thick, and wonderfully chewy texture that is incredibly satisfying. They are moist without being overly gooey, and firm enough to hold their shape without being tough, hitting that sweet spot for perfect dessert bars that appeal to everyone.

Essential Ingredients for Your Loaded Reese’s Peanut Butter Bars

Crafting these scrumptious peanut butter bars requires a selection of readily available ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your pantry. Using quality components ensures the best possible flavor and texture for your homemade treat, making every bite count.

Unsalted butter: Ensure it’s softened to room temperature for optimal creaming with the sugars, forming the tender and rich base of the bars.
Granulated sugar: Provides fundamental sweetness and helps achieve that delightful chewy texture.
Brown sugar: Adds crucial moisture, contributes to the overall chewiness, and imparts a deeper, more complex flavor profile with its subtle molasses notes.
Peanut butter: The undisputed star of the show! Whether you prefer creamy for a smoother texture or crunchy for added bite, use your favorite brand for the best and most authentic peanut butter flavor.
Eggs: Act as essential binders, adding structure to the dough and contributing to the bars’ richness and moistness.
Vanilla extract: A flavor enhancer that beautifully complements and deepens all the other ingredients, especially the chocolate and peanut butter.
All-purpose flour: Forms the structural foundation of these bars. Proper measurement is absolutely crucial for achieving the perfect soft and thick consistency—too much can lead to dry, crumbly results.
Baking soda: Provides the necessary lift and aeration, contributing significantly to the bars’ characteristic soft and tender texture.
Salt: A critical ingredient that balances the sweetness, prevents the bars from being cloyingly sweet, and amplifies the rich flavors of the peanut butter and chocolate.
White chocolate chips: These add a creamy, sweet contrast and a different dimension of richness that perfectly complements the robust peanut butter flavor.
Peanut butter chips: Doubling down on the peanut butter flavor, these chips ensure an even richer, more intense peanut butter experience throughout every bite.
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups (mini or chopped regular): The iconic candy that truly makes these bars “Reese’s Loaded.” Their unique chocolate and peanut butter combination is unmistakable.
Reese’s Candy Pieces: These vibrant, colorful candies add a delightful crunch, an extra burst of peanut butter flavor, and those signature festive hues that make the bars visually appealing.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Loaded Peanut Butter Cookie Bars

Follow these simple, clear instructions to bake a batch of the most delicious peanut butter bars you’ve ever tasted. Paying close attention to precision, especially with flour measurement and baking time, will ensure the best possible results: perfectly soft, chewy, and loaded bars.

Prepare Your Baking Pan: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature when the bars go in. Line a standard 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing a slight overhang on the sides to create “handles.” These handles will make it incredibly easy to lift the entire slab of cooled bars out of the pan later. Lightly spray the parchment paper with non-stick cooking spray to prevent any sticking whatsoever.
Cream the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, preferably using an electric stand mixer or a hand mixer, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale in color. This typically takes about 2-3 minutes. Next, beat in the peanut butter until it is thoroughly combined and smooth. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, ensuring each egg is fully absorbed before adding the next. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract. Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl periodically to ensure all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Combine the Dry Ingredients Accurately: In a separate, medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. It is absolutely crucial to measure your flour correctly to achieve the perfect bar texture. To do this, first, gently fluff the flour in its container with a spoon or whisk to aerate it. Then, lightly spoon the fluffed flour into your dry measuring cup. Do not pack it down. Finally, use the straight edge of a knife or a flat spatula to level off the excess flour across the top of the measuring cup. This method prevents over-measuring, which can lead to dense, dry, and crumbly bars.
Gently Incorporate Dry into Wet: Gradually add the whisked dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients in the large bowl. Mix on low speed, just until the ingredients are combined and no streaks of dry flour remain. Be very careful not to overmix the dough, as this can overdevelop the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough or rubbery bars. Stop mixing as soon as everything is just barely incorporated.
Fold in the Delicious Fillings: Gently fold in most of the white chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, and the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and Candy Pieces into the cookie dough. Reserve a small handful of each type of candy and chip. These will be sprinkled on top of the dough before baking for an extra-appealing visual presentation that promises the deliciousness within.
Transfer to Prepared Pan: Evenly press the cookie dough into the prepared 9×13 inch baking pan. You can use your hands (lightly floured if sticky) or the back of a spoon or spatula to spread it smoothly. If desired, sprinkle the reserved chocolate chips, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, and Candy Pieces over the top of the dough for an added decorative touch and extra flavor burst.
Bake to Perfection: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 35-40 minutes. The bars are done when the edges are lightly golden, the top appears set, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached (not wet batter). Remember that oven temperatures can vary significantly, so keep a close eye on your bars, especially towards the end of the baking time. Erring on the side of slightly underbaked is often best for maximum chewiness, as they will continue to set as they cool.
Cool Completely Before Slicing: This step is absolutely critical for achieving neat, clean cuts and ensuring the optimal texture. Allow the thick peanut butter bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes, or ideally, until they are fully cooled to room temperature. This allows the bars to set and firm up properly, preventing them from crumbling or becoming a sticky mess when sliced. Patience here will be rewarded!

Choosing the Right Pan Size for Your Peanut Butter Bars

The size of the baking pan you select will directly impact the thickness and overall serving yield of your Reese’s Loaded Peanut Butter Bars. We recommend a standard 9×13 inch pan for this recipe to produce a generous batch, perfect for sharing and satisfying many sweet cravings.

For a Standard Batch (Approximately 24 Bars): A 9×13 inch baking pan is the ideal choice for this recipe as written. This size typically yields about 24 delightful, good-sized bars (though the exact number depends on how you choose to slice them). This quantity is perfect for bringing to parties, hosting holiday gatherings, or simply ensuring you have enough to satisfy those intense sweet cravings throughout the week, with perhaps even some cherished leftovers!
For a Smaller Batch (Approximately 9-12 Bars): If you find yourself needing a smaller quantity of these irresistible treats, you can easily halve the entire recipe and bake it in an 8×8 inch or 9×9 inch square pan. When using a smaller pan, keep in mind that baking times might need a slight adjustment. The bars will be thicker, but the heat will penetrate faster, so start checking for doneness a few minutes earlier than the recommended 35-40 minutes for the larger pan.

Storing and Freezing Your Delicious Reese’s Bars

These Loaded Reese’s Peanut Butter Bars are so incredibly delicious, you’ll want to ensure they stay fresh and enjoyable for as long as possible! Proper storage is key to maintaining their delightful soft and chewy texture.

Room Temperature Storage: Once your Reese’s Loaded Peanut Butter Bars have cooled completely to room temperature, transfer them to an airtight container. They will maintain their freshness and wonderful texture when stored at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you need to stack multiple layers of bars, it’s a good idea to place a piece of parchment paper or wax paper between each layer to prevent them from sticking together.
Freezer Storage: For longer-term enjoyment, these bars freeze exceptionally well. To freeze, you can either wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap or wrap the entire slab (once cooled and sliced) securely in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Then, place the wrapped bars in an airtight freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. They will keep beautifully in the freezer for up to 6 months. To enjoy them from frozen, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours until soft.

Expert Tips for Making Perfect Loaded Peanut Butter Bars Every Time

Achieving the best possible texture and flavor for your Loaded Reese’s Peanut Butter Bars is simple when you keep a few key baking principles in mind. These expert tips will help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure your bars turn out perfectly soft, incredibly thick, and deliciously satisfying every single time you bake them.

Mastering Flour Measurement is Crucial: This is arguably the most critical tip for ensuring your bars are wonderfully soft and thick, rather than dry and crumbly. Incorrectly measured flour is a very common culprit in many baking mishaps. Always ensure you measure your flour accurately using the following method:
- Fluff: Before scooping, gently fluff the flour in its container (bag or canister) with a spoon or whisk. This aerates it and prevents it from becoming overly compacted.
- Spoon: Lightly spoon the fluffed flour into your dry measuring cup. Do not pack it down, shake it, or tap the cup.
- Level: Use the back of a straight-edged knife or a flat spatula to level off the excess flour across the top of the measuring cup, removing any dome.
Following this precise method will prevent you from accidentally adding too much flour, which can make your bars dense, dry, and crumbly instead of wonderfully chewy and moist.
Avoid the Dreaded Overbaking: For that coveted soft, moist, and chewy texture, it is absolutely vital not to overbake your bars. The edges should appear set and lightly golden brown, while the center should still look a little soft and slightly underdone. Remember that baked goods continue to cook slightly from residual heat (carryover cooking) even after they’ve been removed from the oven. If a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached, that’s generally a perfect sign they’re done. A completely clean toothpick might indicate they are already on their way to being overdone, resulting in a drier texture.
Patience for Clean Slices (Cool Completely): This tip requires a bit of willpower, but it’s incredibly important for presentation! Resist the strong urge to slice into your warm bars immediately. Allowing them to cool completely in the pan, ideally to room temperature, allows them to firm up, settle, and set properly. This crucial step makes for wonderfully neat, clean, and well-defined cuts. If you attempt to cut them while they are still warm, they will likely be messy, prone to crumbling, and difficult to handle.
Invest in Quality Ingredients: While these bars are relatively forgiving, the flavor of your final product will be significantly enhanced by using good quality ingredients. Opt for fresh eggs, a trusted brand of unsalted butter, and your favorite creamy or crunchy peanut butter for the most robust and delicious flavor profile.
Consider Customizing Your Mix-ins: While these are designed to be “Reese’s Loaded,” don’t hesitate to get creative! You can experiment with other types of chocolate chips (like milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or butterscotch chips), add chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts, or even introduce other small candies to personalize your bars to your unique taste preferences.

Because you cherish yummy, thick peanut butter treats that truly hit the spot, you’ll be thrilled to discover that these **Scrumptious Peanut Butter Loaded Bars** are not only incredibly easy to prepare but also deliver an unparalleled depth of flavor and texture. They are absolutely perfect served alongside a cold glass of your favorite milk, making for a truly comforting, satisfying, and utterly delightful snack or dessert that everyone will love.

If your love for chocolate chips runs as deep as your passion for peanut butter, we’d also like to offer an additional bonus: consider exploring our fantastic recipe for Sheet Pan Perfect Chocolate Chip Bars to add another easy and delicious treat to your baking repertoire. Now, let’s get baking and enjoy some truly amazing bars!

More Peanut Butter Bars and Irresistible Treats to Crave!

If these Loaded Reese’s Peanut Butter Bars have sparked your interest in more delightful peanut butter and chocolate combinations, or simply more incredible dessert bars, you’re in luck! Here are some other fantastic recipes from our collection to satisfy your sweet tooth and expand your baking horizons:

Delish Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars: A wholesome yet indulgent option, combining the satisfying chewiness of oats with rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter.
Best Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Bars: A timeless and beloved combination, these bars offer a classic taste that never fails to please.
Peanut Butter Butterscotch Cookies: For those who enjoy the unique, caramel-like sweetness of butterscotch chips paired with rich peanut butter in a cookie format.
M&M Christmas Cookies: Festive and fun, these colorful cookies are perfect for holiday baking and brightening up any seasonal dessert platter.
Soft Batch Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies: A truly beloved cookie recipe renowned for its incredibly soft texture and perfect balance of peanut butter and chocolate.
Ultimate Reese’s Pieces Cookies: Another fantastic way to enjoy the classic Reese’s flavor and vibrant colors, but in a chewy, delicious cookie form.
Reese’s Cream Cheese Bars: A decadent and rich twist on the classic, with the luxurious addition of cream cheese for an extra layer of richness and tang.
Biscoff White Chocolate Cookie Bars: For a delightful change of pace, these bars offer a unique spiced cookie butter flavor perfectly complemented by sweet white chocolate.
Scrumptious German Chocolate Brownies with Coconut Pecan Frosting: If you’re looking for something beyond peanut butter, this rich, fudgy brownie recipe topped with a classic coconut-pecan frosting is an absolute must-try.

Scrumptious Peanut Butter Loaded Bars

Recipe by Kim Lange

You won’t want to miss out on these **Scrumptious Peanut Butter Loaded Bars**! They are so soft, extra thick and definitely loaded with peanut butter flavor, delectable white chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, and Reese’s Baking Peanut Butter Cups and Reese’s Pieces Candy. A real peanut butter lover’s dream.

Average Rating: 4.80 out of 5 stars (based on 5 votes)

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Recipe Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Cooling Time: 30 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Yield: 18 Servings
Calories: (Nutritional information not provided in the original content)

Ingredients

¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (measure correctly, see Notes)
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup white chocolate chips
½ cup peanut butter chips
8.5 oz Reese’s Baking Cups and Candy Pieces (if unavailable, use mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and Reese’s Pieces Candy instead)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing an overhang to easily lift the bars, and lightly spray with non-stick cooking spray.
In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, peanut butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined and creamy.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Gently fold in most of the white chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and Candy Pieces. Reserve a small amount for sprinkling on top.
Transfer the cookie dough evenly into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the reserved chips and Reese’s candies over the top for an appealing finish.
Bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until the top is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs (no wet batter).
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving. This ensures clean cuts and the best texture.
Store cooled bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 6 months.

Notes

To ensure your bars are perfectly soft and chewy, it is crucial to measure your flour correctly. Always fluff the flour in its container, then gently spoon it into your measuring cup, and finally, level it off with a knife. This method prevents over-measuring, which can lead to dry and crumbly bars.

Keywords

bars, peanut butter, peanut butter bars, reeses

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This delightful recipe was originally inspired by my beloved “Phenomenal” Milk Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies, a testament to the versatility and inherent deliciousness of a perfectly crafted peanut butter base.