Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares

Easy, irresistible Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares can be on your dessert table in 30 minutes!
Lately I'm all about fuss-free recipes because, well... who has the time!?
Plus, sometimes I crave a baked treat, but I don't want to wait hours before I can enjoy it.

The base for these squares is a soft, delicious peanut butter cookie packed with peanut butter flavour!It takes only 12 minutes to bake and the silky ganache topping comes together in minutes. It's like biting through a chocolate truffle before sinking your teeth into the cookie. The pairing is wonderful and a simple dessert to put together for guests.
It's also not-too-sweet with the balance of dark chocolate and nutty peanut butter, so this is a sure-fire winner!

I hope you make these to enjoy with your family this weekend (or any weekend). Be sure to share your results on Instagram by tagging @scientifically.sweet in your posts!

Much love,
Christina.

Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Barsmakes 16 squares
Cookie base:3 tablespoon (42g) unsalted butter ½ cup (110g) packed dark brown sugar ½ cup (120ml) natural unsweetened unsalted peanut butter1 teaspoon (5ml) pure vanilla extract1 large egg¼ teaspoon salt¼ teaspoon baking soda⅔ cup (95g) all-purpose flour 
Topping:6 oz (170g) dark chocolate, coarsely chopped¾ cup (180ml) 35% whipping creampinch of salt
Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8x8-inch pan with parchment paper leaving a 2-inch overhang at each side.
Cream together butter and brown sugar until smooth. Stir in peanut butter and vanilla. Mix in egg until well incorporated, the mix in salt, baking soda and flour. Spread or press the mixture into prepared pan and bake for 12 minutes until evenly golden. Transfer pan to a wire rack and let cool completely. 

For the topping, heat cream in a saucepan until til it comes to a boil. Remove from heat and pour over the chopped chocolate in a bowl. Add a pinch of salt and let stand for 2 minutes. Whisk until smooth and glossy. Spread over cooled bars and refrigerate until set before slicing. Decorate with festive sprinkles!