Peanut Butter-Turkey Bacon Bars

Name: Peanut Butter-Turkey Bacon Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup packed light brown sugar; 1/2 cup butter, softened; 1/2 cup peanut butter; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 10 slices turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled; 1/2 cup chopped peanuts; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Published: August 20, 2025

by lara

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Delicious Flavor Combination: The rich taste of peanut butter paired with crispy turkey bacon creates an irresistible treat.
Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip these bars up quickly.
Versatile Snack: Great for any occasion, whether it’s a casual gathering or a special celebration.
Kid-Friendly: Kids will adore the sweet and salty flavors, making it a hit among younger audiences.
Customizable: Feel free to sprinkle in your favorite nuts or toppings for extra flair.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the preparation smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking dish (8 x 8 inches)
Electric mixer or whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Cooking spray

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A large bowl is crucial for combining all ingredients without spilling.
Baking dish: The right size baking dish ensures even cooking and easy removal of bars.
Electric mixer or whisk: These tools help achieve a creamy texture when mixing ingredients.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make your Peanut Butter-Turkey Bacon Bars:

1 cup packed light brown sugar
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened
1/2 cup peanut butter
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
10 Turkey Bacon slices, crisply cooked and crumbled, divided
1/2 cup chopped peanuts, divided
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

How to Make Peanut Butter-Turkey Bacon Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Coat an 8 x 8-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Beat together the brown sugar and softened butter until creamy.
2. Add in the peanut butter, egg, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
3. Incorporate the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt; stir until well combined.
4. Fold in half of the crumbled Turkey Bacon (about 1/2 cup) and a third of the chopped peanuts (about 1/3 cup).

Step 3: Bake the Mixture

Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 4: Add Chocolate Topping

Remove from oven and sprinkle with semi-sweet chocolate chips immediately. Return to oven for an additional minute to allow chocolate to melt.

Step 5: Finish Up

Using a spatula, spread the melted chocolate evenly over the top. Sprinkle with remaining Turkey Bacon and chopped peanuts. Let cool completely before cutting into squares.

Enjoy these delicious Peanut Butter-Turkey Bacon Bars as a delightful snack or dessert!

How to Serve Peanut Butter-Turkey Bacon Bars

Peanut Butter-Turkey Bacon Bars make for a delightful treat any time of day. They are perfect for parties, snacks, or even a sweet breakfast option. Here are some fun serving suggestions to elevate your snacking experience.

Pair with Fresh Fruits

Apples: Sliced apples add a crisp freshness that balances the rich flavors of the bars.
Bananas: The creamy texture of bananas complements the peanut butter beautifully.
Berries: Strawberries or blueberries provide a juicy burst that enhances each bite.

Enjoy with Beverages

Milk: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and richness to the snack.
Coffee: The bitterness of coffee contrasts well with the sweetness of the bars, making it a great morning treat.
Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea can bring out the nutty flavors in the bars.

Add Toppings for Extra Flavor

Drizzle of Honey: A light drizzle enhances sweetness and adds another layer of flavor.
Yogurt Dip: Serve with a side of yogurt for a creamy and tangy complement.
Nut Butters: A smear of extra peanut butter or almond butter can intensify the nutty goodness.

How to Perfect Peanut Butter-Turkey Bacon Bars

Creating the perfect Peanut Butter-Turkey Bacon Bars requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your bars turn out just right.

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Softened butter and eggs blend more easily, ensuring a smooth batter.
Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to keep your bars tender and chewy.
Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Ovens vary; check for doneness a few minutes before the timer goes off.
Let Cool Completely: Allowing the bars to cool fully makes them easier to cut and enhances their texture.
Experiment with Mix-Ins: Try adding dried fruits or different nuts for unique flavors.
Store Properly: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for optimal freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter-Turkey Bacon Bars

Pairing side dishes with your Peanut Butter-Turkey Bacon Bars can create a more satisfying meal or snack spread. Here are some excellent options.

Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fresh fruits for a healthy contrast.
Veggie Sticks: Carrots, celery, and bell peppers add crunch and freshness alongside sweet bars.
Trail Mix: A mix of nuts, seeds, and dried fruit provides added texture and nutrition.
Cheese Plate: Offer slices of cheese like cheddar or gouda for a savory balance against sweetness.
Chia Seed Pudding: This creamy dessert echoes nutty flavors while being nutritious and filling.
Smoothie Bowl: A thick smoothie topped with seeds, nuts, and berries complements the richness of the bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes will help you create the best Peanut Butter-Turkey Bacon Bars. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

Using cold ingredients: Make sure your butter is softened before mixing. Cold ingredients can lead to a lumpy batter.
Overmixing the batter: Mix until just combined. Overmixing can make your bars tough instead of soft and chewy.
Skipping the cooking spray: Always coat your baking dish with cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes it easier to cut into squares.
Not letting them cool completely: Allow your bars to cool fully before cutting. This helps achieve clean cuts and prevents crumbling.
Ignoring ingredient measurements: Accurate measurements are crucial. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision to ensure the right texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
They will last up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Peanut Butter-Turkey Bacon Bars

Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or foil.
They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Peanut Butter-Turkey Bacon Bars

Oven: Preheat to 350°F and place bars on a baking sheet for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat individual bars for 10-15 seconds until warm.
Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Peanut Butter-Turkey Bacon Bars, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries:

Can I substitute other types of nut butter?

You can use almond butter or cashew butter as alternatives. Each will give a unique flavor while maintaining the creamy texture.

How do I make Peanut Butter-Turkey Bacon Bars gluten-free?

To make them gluten-free, simply replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

What can I add for extra flavor?

Consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or even mix-ins like dried fruits or seeds for additional texture and taste.

Can I use different types of bacon?

Yes! Turkey bacon is great, but you could also experiment with beef bacon or even a plant-based bacon alternative for variety.

How long do Peanut Butter-Turkey Bacon Bars last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they can last up to one week in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

Peanut Butter-Turkey Bacon Bars combine delicious flavors in a convenient snack that everyone will love. They are versatile, allowing for customization with various mix-ins or flavored nut butters. Try making these delightful bars today and enjoy their sweet and savory goodness!