Get ready to indulge in a decadent treat with these Fudge Filled Peanut Butter Cake Bars! These bars combine the classic flavors of peanut butter and chocolate, layered with a gooey fudge center and soft cake-like texture. They’re easy to make using a cake mix base, but taste like you spent hours in the kitchen. Perfect for weekend gatherings, parties, or simply treating yourself.
Ingredients:
For the Cake Layer:
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup peanut butter
For the Fudge Filling:
- 2 cups chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Layer
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with nonstick foil, making sure the edges hang over for easy removal later. In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and peanut butter. Mix until smooth and fully combined. Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly across the bottom.
Step 2: Make the Fudge Filling
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Microwave in 20-30 second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth. This creates the rich fudge layer. Pour the fudge mixture evenly over the cake batter in the pan, spreading it out to cover the entire surface.
Step 3: Add the Top Cake Layer
Dollop the remaining cake batter over the fudge layer. It may be a bit thick, so use a spatula or your hands to gently spread it out as evenly as possible, leaving some of the fudge layer peeking through for that gooey effect.
Step 4: Bake the Bars
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and set. The bars will still be soft and gooey due to the fudge center, so don’t overbake.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, lift them out using the foil overhang and cut into squares. For extra indulgence, drizzle with melted peanut butter before serving.
Serving and Storage Tips:
- Serving: These bars are best enjoyed slightly warm for the ultimate gooey fudge experience. Serve them as is, or with a drizzle of melted peanut butter for an extra peanut buttery touch.
- Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. If you prefer them warm, you can microwave individual bars for 10-15 seconds before eating.
- Freezing: You can freeze the bars for up to 2 months. Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature or in the fridge before serving.
Helpful Notes:
- Peanut Butter Texture: The peanut butter makes the cake batter a little thick, so don’t worry if it’s harder to spread. Just use a spatula to gently work it over the fudge layer.
- Microwaving the Fudge: Be sure to microwave the fudge filling in short intervals, stirring between each, to avoid burning the chocolate.
- Fudge Layer: The fudge will be soft and gooey after baking, giving these bars their rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs:
- Duff Goldman: “Don’t be afraid to experiment with textures! For added crunch, you could stir in some chopped peanuts or pretzels into the cake batter or sprinkle them on top before baking.”
- Ree Drummond: “For an extra indulgent twist, top the bars with mini peanut butter cups or chocolate chips before baking.”
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
Yes, you can substitute yellow cake mix with chocolate or white cake mix if you prefer. It’ll give the bars a slightly different flavor, but still delicious. - Can I use chunky peanut butter?
Absolutely! Chunky peanut butter adds a nice bit of texture to the bars with the occasional peanut crunch. - How do I prevent the fudge layer from leaking out while spreading the top layer?
It’s okay if the fudge peeks through the top layer. Use a spatula to gently spread the remaining cake batter without pressing down too hard. - Can I add mix-ins to the fudge layer?
Yes! Feel free to add chopped peanuts, marshmallows, or even crushed pretzels into the fudge layer for added texture and flavor. - Do I have to use sweetened condensed milk?
Yes, sweetened condensed milk is key to creating the thick, fudgy texture in the filling. Evaporated milk won’t work the same way. - Can I use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?
Yes, if you prefer a more intense chocolate flavor, dark chocolate chips can be used in place of semi-sweet. - What can I use if I don’t have nonstick foil?
You can line the pan with regular foil and spray it with nonstick cooking spray, or use parchment paper for easy removal. - Can I add peanut butter chips to the recipe?
Yes, peanut butter chips would be a fantastic addition. You can stir them into the cake batter or sprinkle them over the top before baking.
These Fudge Filled Peanut Butter Cake Bars are the ultimate treat for peanut butter and chocolate lovers, with a gooey fudge center and soft cake-like texture that will leave everyone asking for more. Enjoy!