Butter Chocolate Chip Bars with a Rich Chocolate Glaze

These Butter Chocolate Chip Bars are the perfect combination of soft, chewy, and packed with rich chocolatey goodness. A blend of butter and peanut butter creates a creamy, flavorful base, while semisweet chocolate chips bring bursts of sweetness throughout. Topped with a silky chocolate glaze, these bars are indulgent yet easy to make, perfect for a snack, dessert, or even as a treat to share at gatherings. They’re everything you love about cookies, in bar form, with the added bonus of a luscious chocolate topping.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

These bars are incredibly rich and flavorful, with a buttery, peanut butter base that perfectly complements the melty semisweet chocolate chips. The recipe is straightforward, and the addition of cornstarch ensures a soft, tender texture. The chocolate glaze on top adds a luxurious finish, making these bars feel extra special. Whether you’re looking for an easy dessert to make or a treat for a party, these bars are a guaranteed hit.

Perfect Occasion:

These chocolate chip bars are ideal for any occasion—serve them at potlucks, birthday parties, or as an after-dinner treat. They’re also perfect for making ahead and storing for a quick snack during the week. The combination of flavors makes them great for both kids and adults alike, and they’re especially perfect for anyone who loves chocolate!

Decoration Tips:

For an extra touch, sprinkle a few chocolate chips or chopped nuts on top of the glaze before it sets. You can also drizzle a little peanut butter over the top for added flavor and texture. If you’re feeling festive, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt or even edible gold dust for a fancier presentation.

Ingredients for the Bars:

• 1 cup (142g) all-purpose flour, sifted
• 2 tablespoons (20g) cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup (128g) creamy peanut butter
• 3/4 cup (150g) packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup (170g) semisweet chocolate chips (tossed with 1 teaspoon flour)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Baking Pan:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line the bottom of an 8” square baking pan with parchment paper, and grease and flour the sides.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the sifted flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and sea salt until well combined.
3. Cream the Butters and Sugars:
   In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and peanut butter using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add the brown sugar and granulated sugar, and beat until well combined.Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, ensuring each addition is fully incorporated before adding the next.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   Gradually stir the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Toss the chocolate chips with 1 teaspoon of flour (this helps prevent them from sinking) and fold them into the batter.
5. Bake the Bars:
   Transfer the batter to the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
6. Prepare the Chocolate Glaze:
   In a microwave or over a double boiler, melt together 1/2 cup (71g) chopped semisweet chocolate, 2 tablespoons (28g) butter, and 1 teaspoon light corn syrup. Stir until smooth and glossy.
7. Glaze the Bars:
   Once the bars have cooled, spread the melted chocolate glaze evenly over the top. Let the glaze set before cutting the bars into squares.

Enjoy your Butter Chocolate Chip Bars—a perfect, rich, and delicious treat for any occasion!