These Cake Mix Peanut Butter Bars are the ultimate treat for anyone who loves the perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors. With a soft, chewy base and a rich peanut butter topping, every bite is a delightful mix of textures that melts in your mouth. Ready in just 35 minutes, they’re a quick and easy dessert that feels indulgent without the fuss.
Packed with creamy peanut butter goodness and a hint of vanilla, these bars are irresistibly decadent yet surprisingly simple to make. The golden edges and gooey center create a satisfying contrast, while the subtle sweetness makes them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a snack or need a last-minute dessert, these bars deliver big flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients for Cake Mix Peanut Butter Bars
- For the Bars:
- 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy, your choice)
- ½ cup water
- 1 large egg
- 15.25 ounces yellow cake mix (or substitute with white or chocolate cake mix for variation)
- For the Frosting:
- ½ cup margarine softened (1 stick; butter can be used as a substitute)
- ¼ cup milk (adjust for desired frosting consistency)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (use 1-2 teaspoons depending on your taste preference)
- 3 Tablespoons cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- 3 cups powdered sugar (adjust for sweetness and consistency)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Pan: Spray a 13 x 9-inch baking pan with no-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix the Bar Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup peanut butter, ½ cup water, and 1 large egg. Stir until smooth. Gradually add the yellow cake mix and blend well until fully incorporated.
- Spread the Batter: Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and spread it evenly using a spatula.
- Bake: Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the bars are puffed and light golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Cool Completely: Remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Prepare the Frosting: In a separate bowl, combine ½ cup softened margarine, ¼ cup milk, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 3 Tablespoons cocoa powder, and 3 cups powdered sugar. Use a hand mixer to blend until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar for thickness or more milk for a thinner frosting.
- Frost the Bars: Once the bars are completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top using a spatula.
- Serve and Enjoy: Cut into squares and serve. Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
Serving Suggestions for Cake Mix Peanut Butter Bars
These peanut butter bars are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them with a few creative serving ideas. Try pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert. For a fun twist, drizzle melted chocolate or caramel sauce over the top. If you’re serving them at a party, cut them into bite-sized pieces and arrange them on a platter for easy sharing.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To keep your peanut butter bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months. If you prefer them warm, simply pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving. This will give them a soft, gooey texture that’s absolutely irresistible.
Recipe Variations to Mix It Up
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Swap the yellow cake mix for a chocolate or vanilla one to change the flavor profile. You can also add mix-ins like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even crushed pretzels for extra texture. If you’re a fan of peanut butter, consider doubling the amount in the base for a richer taste. For a healthier version, use natural peanut butter and a sugar-free cake mix.
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Bakers
If you’re short on time, there are a few ways to streamline this recipe. Use a pre-made frosting instead of making your own to save a few minutes. You can also use a hand mixer to combine the ingredients more quickly. Another tip is to use parchment paper to line the pan, which makes cleanup a breeze and allows you to cut and serve the bars directly from the pan without any mess.
Common Questions Answered
Can I use a different type of nut butter? Yes, almond or cashew butter would work well as a substitute. Can I make these bars gluten-free? Absolutely, just use a gluten-free cake mix. What if I don’t have a hand mixer? No problem! A sturdy spoon or spatula will do the job, though it may take a bit more effort to achieve a smooth mixture. Can I double the recipe? Yes, just be sure to use a larger baking pan to accommodate the extra batter.
Cake Mix Peanut Butter Bars Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 large egg
- 15.25 ounces yellow cake mix
Frosting
- 1/2 cup margarine, softened 1 stick
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla (1-2 depending on your taste)
- 3 Tablespoons cocoa powder
- 3 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 350°F.
- Spray a 13 X 9-inch pan with no-stick cooking spray.
- In a medium bowl combine 1 cup of peanut butter, water and egg in large bowl, stirring until smooth. Stir in cake mix until blended well. Spread into prepared pan.
- BAKE 20 to 25 minutes or until puffed and light golden brown. Cool completely.
- Mix all ingredients with a hand mixer until smooth. Add more powdered sugar or milk until you reach desired consistency and spread on top of bars.