Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Line an 11×15-inch jelly roll pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Lightly spray with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

• In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup all‑purpose flour, 1 tsp baking soda, and ½ tsp salt.

• Set this dry mix aside—this forms the structure for your Chocolate‑Frosted Peanut Butter Bars base.

Step 3: Cream the Wet Ingredients

• In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat together:

  • ½ cup softened butter,

  • 1 cup granulated sugar,

  • ¾ cup brown sugar,

  • 1 cup peanut butter,

  • 2 eggs,

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
    until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale—about 2 to 3 minutes on medium speed.

• This creamy consistency is key to a smooth, cohesive bar base.

Step 4: Combine Dry Mixture and Oats

• Reduce mixer speed to low. Gradually add the dry flour mixture.

• Once nearly incorporated, stir in 1 cup quick oats. This gives the bars a chewy, hearty texture.

• Note: Don’t overmix—stir only until combined to avoid dense results.

Step 5: Bake the Base Layer

• Spread the peanut butter/oat mixture evenly into your prepared pan, pressing it gently with a spatula.

• Bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden. The center may look slightly underdone—that’s perfect.

• Remove from oven and allow to cool in pan for about 10 minutes before adding the next layer.

Step 6: Add Peanut Butter Middle Layer

• While the base cools, whip 1 cup creamy peanut butter in a clean bowl until light and fluffy—about 1–2 minutes on medium speed.

• Gently spread this fluffy layer over the slightly warmed base.

• Let sit for 5 minutes while you prep the frosting.

Step 7: Prepare the Chocolate Frosting

• In a medium bowl or mixer, combine:

  • ½ cup softened butter,

  • ¼ cup milk,

  • 3 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder,

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract.

• Beat on medium until smooth.

• Gradually add 3½ cups powdered sugar, beating until you reach a light and fluffy frosting—similar to frosting used on brownies or bars. Adjust consistency by adding more milk or powdered sugar if needed.

Step 8: Frost the Bars

• Dollop frosting over peanut butter layer in clusters.

• Use an offset spatula or metal knife to spread evenly and smoothly.

• Let the frosted bars stand at room temperature for 10–15 minutes so the layers set. You can also refrigerate briefly to speed this up.

Step 9: Slice and Serve

• Using a sharp chef’s knife, cut bars into squares—or fun shapes using cookie cutters.

• Clean your knife between cuts for neat edges.

• Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled.