Instructions
- Prepare the Cookie Base:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Press the cookie dough evenly into the prepared baking dish to form the base layer.
- Bake the Cookie Base:
- Bake the cookie base for 12-15 minutes or until it is lightly golden. Let it cool completely before adding the topping.
- Prepare the Caramel Layer:
- In a small saucepan, heat the sweetened condensed milk and caramel bits (or caramel sauce) over low heat, stirring constantly until the caramel is melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Assemble the Payday Cookie Bars:
- Pour the warm caramel mixture over the cooled cookie base, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the salted roasted peanuts generously over the caramel layer, pressing them down gently so they adhere to the caramel.
- Chill and Set:
- Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours to allow the caramel to set before cutting them into squares.
Tips for Perfect Payday Cookie Bars
- Use Parchment Paper: Lining the baking dish with parchment paper will make it much easier to lift the bars out for slicing.
- Experiment with Different Nuts: If you prefer other types of nuts, try using cashews or almonds for a unique twist.
- Add a Chocolate Drizzle: For extra decadence, drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the bars before chilling.
Serving Suggestions
Payday Cookie Bars are delicious on their own, but they can also be enjoyed in different ways:
- Serve with Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream on the side takes this dessert to the next level.
- Add to a Dessert Platter: Include these bars on a dessert platter alongside brownies and cookies for a variety of treats.
- Pack for a Picnic: Wrap the bars individually for a convenient and tasty snack on the go.
Conclusion
Payday Cookie Bars are the perfect balance of sweet and salty, chewy and crunchy, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these bars offer the nostalgic taste of a Payday candy bar with a homemade twist. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or keeping them all to yourself, one bite will have you hooked. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to bake a batch of these deliciously satisfying cookie bars!
Feel free to personalize any parts of the article or adjust the ingredients to suit your tastes!
