Black Widow Peanut Butter Bars

There’s something truly special about making Black Widow Peanut Butter Bars that transports me back to my childhood. Each time October rolls around, I find myself craving these spooky treats. It’s not just about the taste; it’s the memories attached to them. I remember crafting them with my mom, smiling as we decorated each bar with spooky toppings. They were a hit at every Halloween gathering, and the excitement in the air made each bite taste even better. The rich, creamy layers of peanut butter paired with the sweetness of chocolate frosting create a deliciously indulgent experience that no one can resist. Plus, the added fun of creating little spider decorations gives these bars a playful twist that lights up any gathering.

Ingredients for Black Widow Peanut Butter Bars

When it comes to making Black Widow Peanut Butter Bars, the quality of the ingredients can truly make a difference. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating that perfect blend of flavors and textures. Let’s dig into the key players that make this recipe stand out.

• 1 1/2 sticks (3/4 cup) salted butter – This rich ingredient adds moisture and flavor, making the bars irresistible.
• 2 cups creamy peanut butter – The star of the show, providing that classic peanut butter taste we all love.
• 3/4 cup light brown sugar – This adds a lovely caramel flavor and enhances the sweetness.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar – This complements the brown sugar and contributes to the overall sweetness.
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature – Essential for binding ingredients together and providing richness.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract – A splash of vanilla enhances the sweetness and adds warmth.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour – This gives structure to the bars, creating a nice texture.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder – Provides lift and helps the bars rise.
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• 1 stick (1/2 cup) salted butter, at room temperature – Used in the frosting for creaminess and flavor.
• 2-3 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting and gives it a light texture.
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder – Adds a rich chocolate flavor to the frosting.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor of the frosting.
• 1/4 cup warmed milk – Helps to achieve the perfect frosting consistency.
• Marshmallows – Used for the fun spider web decoration on top.
• Whoppers – These candies are perfect for creating the spiders.
• Candy eyes – Adds a fun and spooky touch to the decorations.
• Melted chocolate – Used to create the spider bodies and legs.
• Black or silver sprinkles – A sprinkle of fun to finish off the presentation.
• Small plastic spiders (optional) – Enhance the spooky look, making these bars even more festive.

Step by Step Instructions for Black Widow Peanut Butter Bars

Making Black Widow Peanut Butter Bars is a wonderful experience that brings back memories of joy and creativity. Follow these detailed steps to create your very own spooky treat.

1. Preheat your oven to 350° F and prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper. This will help prevent the bars from sticking and make for easy removal once they’re baked.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt together the 1 1/2 sticks of salted butter and 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter. Heat in intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Once melted, remove from the microwave and let cool slightly.
3. To the melted mixture, stir in the 3/4 cup of light brown sugar, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 2 large eggs (at room temperature), and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract. Mix well until fully combined, ensuring that the sugars are dissolved and everything is creamy and homogenous.
4. Next, add the 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt. Gently fold in these dry ingredients until just combined—be careful not to over-mix, as this can lead to tough bars.
5. Press or spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish, making sure to cover the bottom completely. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the center is just set. You can check by inserting a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
6. Once baked, remove the bars from the oven and dollop tablespoon-size spoonfuls of the remaining 1/2 cup of peanut butter on top. Using a spatula, lightly spread the peanut butter into an even layer over the warm bars. Let cool completely in the baking dish.
7. While the bars are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 stick of salted butter, 2 cups of powdered sugar, 1/2 cup of cocoa powder, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and 1/4 cup of warmed milk. Beat with a mixer until smooth, adding more powdered sugar if you desire a thicker frosting, or more milk for a drizzle.
8. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars and allow it to set for about an hour. This will enable the frosting to firm up a bit, making cutting easier.
9. For the spider web decoration, melt the marshmallows in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring each time until smooth. Once melted, let them cool slightly, then use your hands to stretch and pull the melted marshmallow over the bars, creating a web effect. This is where the fun begins, and the messier it is, the better!
10. To create the spiders, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Melt the melted chocolate and pour it into a piping bag or a ziplock bag with a corner snipped off. Pipe two small dots of chocolate on the parchment for spider bodies, place one Whopper on each dot, and create 2-3 legs on either side of the bodies with chocolate. Add candy eyes on top and freeze for 15 minutes to set.
11. Once set, gently remove the spiders from the parchment and place them on top of the bars. Slice into squares and enjoy your festive Black Widow Peanut Butter Bars!

Helpful Hints

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Black Widow Peanut Butter Bars turn out perfect every time you make them!

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also refrigerate for longer freshness.
• Freezing: Yes, you can freeze these bars! Wrap them individually or in groups in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
• Serving: These bars are perfect for Halloween parties, but they can also be enjoyed at any festive gathering or as a sweet treat at home.
• Custom variations: Feel free to experiment with different toppings like crushed cookies, nuts, or other candies to create a unique flavor.
• Presentation: Serve these bars on a spooky platter with little decorations to enhance the Halloween theme.

Accompaniments for Black Widow Peanut Butter Bars

When it comes to serving Black Widow Peanut Butter Bars, the options are endless! These bars can stand proudly on their own, but pairing them with delightful accompaniments can elevate your dessert experience.

• Halloween-themed snacks: Consider serving these alongside pumpkin-shaped cookies or ghostly cupcakes for a complete dessert table.
• Seasonal fruits: Fresh apples or pears with caramel dip can provide a nice contrast to the richness of the bars.
• Hot beverages: Pair with a cup of warm apple cider or hot chocolate to complement the flavors and keep everyone cozy.
• Ice cream: A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream on the side makes for a delightful addition, especially if the bars are slightly warm.
• Picnic parties: These are perfect for outdoor gatherings. Pack them up alongside other finger foods for a casual celebration.
• Lunch boxes: Slice these bars into smaller pieces for a sweet treat in kids’ lunch boxes, adding a touch of fun to their day.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Black Widow Peanut Butter Bars truly capture the spirit of Halloween while being deliciously indulgent. They’re a wonderful way to celebrate the season and bring joy to your table. So why not gather the family and whip up a batch? You’ll be glad you did, as these bars are sure to become a favorite in your home, enjoyed year-round!

Black Widow Peanut Butter Bars

The ultimate Halloween treat, Black Widow Peanut Butter Bars are rich, creamy, and playful. These bars combine the deliciousness of peanut butter and chocolate, making them a favorite for all ages. Perfect for parties or gatherings, you'll want to make these spooky bars tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 50 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Servings: 24 bars

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 230

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 1/2 sticks Salted Butter (3/4 cup)
• 2 cups Creamy Peanut Butter
• 3/4 cup Light Brown Sugar
• 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar
• 2 large Eggs (at room temperature)
• 1 tablespoon Vanilla Extract
• 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
• 1 teaspoon Baking Powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt
• 1 stick Salted Butter (1/2 cup, at room temperature)
• 2-3 cups Powdered Sugar
• 1/2 cup Cocoa Powder
• 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract
• 1/4 cup Warmed Milk
• Marshmallows
• Whoppers
• Candy Eyes
• Melted Chocolate
• Black or Silver Sprinkles
• Small Plastic Spiders (optional)

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Oven
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl
• Peeler
• Baking Sheet

Method

 

1. 1. Preheat your oven to 350° F and prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper. This will help prevent the bars from sticking and make for easy removal once they’re baked.
2. 2. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt together the 1 1/2 sticks of salted butter and 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter. Heat in intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Once melted, remove from the microwave and let cool slightly.
3. 3. To the melted mixture, stir in the 3/4 cup of light brown sugar, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 2 large eggs (at room temperature), and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract. Mix well until fully combined, ensuring that the sugars are dissolved and everything is creamy and homogenous.
4. 4. Next, add the 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt. Gently fold in these dry ingredients until just combined—be careful not to over-mix, as this can lead to tough bars.
5. 5. Press or spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish, making sure to cover the bottom completely. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the center is just set. You can check by inserting a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
6. 6. Once baked, remove the bars from the oven and dollop tablespoon-size spoonfuls of the remaining 1/2 cup of peanut butter on top. Using a spatula, lightly spread the peanut butter into an even layer over the warm bars. Let cool completely in the baking dish.
7. 7. While the bars are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 stick of salted butter, 2 cups of powdered sugar, 1/2 cup of cocoa powder, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and 1/4 cup of warmed milk. Beat with a mixer until smooth, adding more powdered sugar if you desire a thicker frosting, or more milk for a drizzle.
8. 8. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars and allow it to set for about an hour. This will enable the frosting to firm up a bit, making cutting easier.
9. 9. For the spider web decoration, melt the marshmallows in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring each time until smooth. Once melted, let them cool slightly, then use your hands to stretch and pull the melted marshmallow over the bars, creating a web effect. This is where the fun begins, and the messier it is, the better!
10. 10. To create the spiders, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Melt the melted chocolate and pour it into a piping bag or a ziplock bag with a corner snipped off. Pipe two small dots of chocolate on the parchment for spider bodies, place one Whopper on each dot, and create 2-3 legs on either side of the bodies with chocolate. Add candy eyes on top and freeze for 15 minutes to set.
11. 11. Once set, gently remove the spiders from the parchment and place them on top of the bars. Slice into squares and enjoy your festive Black Widow Peanut Butter Bars!

Notes

These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them individually wrapped for up to three months. Get creative with your toppings to make each batch unique!

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Meet Jenna Miller

I’m the one who brought this group together. I’ve always believed that food tastes better when it’s shared, and I wanted to create a space that felt as warm and sunny as our home state. I’m usually the one writing our posts and helping Brooke develop our main course recipes. My favorite days are when we’re all in the kitchen together, music on, cooking up our next idea.