Chubby Hubby Bars Recipe

If you’re searching for the perfect dessert that satisfies both sweet and salty cravings, look no further than Chubby Hubby Bars. These indulgent dessert bars combine the rich flavors of chocolate, peanut butter, and crunchy pretzels for an unforgettable treat. Whether you’re hosting a party, baking for a potluck, or simply treating yourself at home, Chubby Hubby Bars are easy to make and sure to impress.

In this article, you’ll get everything you need: a foolproof recipe, step-by-step instructions, tips for success, and even fun variations to keep things exciting. Let’s dive into dessert heaven!

Why You’ll Love Chubby Hubby Bars

These bars are more than just another cookie bar recipe—they’re a decadent combination of flavors and textures that hit every craving:

• Sweet and salty balance: Crunchy pretzels and peanut butter chips complement the sweetness of chocolate and brown sugar.
• Texture heaven: Soft, chewy centers with crisp edges and crunchy toppings make every bite satisfying.
• Easy and reliable: This is a one-bowl batter recipe that comes together quickly and bakes in just 30–35 minutes.
• Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for parties, bake sales, lunchboxes, or cozy nights at home.

Ingredients for Chubby Hubby Bars

Here’s everything you’ll need to make a full 9×13-inch batch of these incredible bars:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter (1 1/2 sticks), at room temperature
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated white sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/3 cup chunky peanut butter (creamy is fine too)
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/4 cups chocolate chips, divided use
• 1 1/2 cups chopped pretzels, divided use
• 1/2 cup peanut butter chips

Pro tip: For best results, use room temperature eggs and butter. This ensures your batter mixes smoothly and bakes evenly.

Essential Kitchen Equipment

Before you start baking, make sure you have the following tools:

• 9 x 13-inch baking pan
• Nonstick cooking spray or parchment paper
• Electric mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin (to crush pretzels)
• Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chubby Hubby Bars

Follow these easy instructions to make your Chubby Hubby Bars come out perfectly every time:

1. Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.

2. Crush the Pretzels

Place pretzels in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin to crush them into small pieces. Separate 1 cup for the batter and reserve 1/2 cup for the topping.

3. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

4. Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, brown sugar, and white sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).

5. Add Wet Ingredients

Beat in the eggs, chunky peanut butter, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined.

6. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until the flour disappears. Avoid overmixing.

7. Fold in Add-ins

Use a spatula to gently fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips and 1 cup of crushed pretzels. Mix until evenly distributed.

8. Spread and Top

Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1/2 cup of pretzels, 1/4 cup chocolate chips, and 1/2 cup peanut butter chips. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter.

9. Bake

Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

10. Cool and Cut

Let the bars cool completely in the pan on a cooling rack. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve.

Tips for Baking Success

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temperature eggs and butter for the smoothest batter.
• Don’t Overmix: Stop mixing as soon as the flour is incorporated to keep the texture soft and chewy.
• Oven Variations: Ovens can vary, so begin checking your bars at the 30-minute mark.
• Line Your Pan: Use parchment paper for easy lifting and cleaner edges when cutting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Measuring Flour Incorrectly: Always spoon flour into your measuring cup and level off with a knife.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Let bars cool completely to ensure clean cuts and set texture.
• Overbaking: Pull the bars out as soon as the toothpick test shows no raw batter—overbaking leads to dryness.
• Too Many Swaps: Changing too many ingredients (e.g., swapping all chips or removing pretzels) can impact the signature flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Chubby Hubby Bars are a versatile dessert. Try serving them:

• Warm with Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream makes these bars an indulgent dessert.
• Drizzled with Sauce: Add melted chocolate or warm caramel over the top.
• Garnished with Extra Pretzels: Sprinkle a few extra pretzel pieces on top just before serving for added crunch.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

Make this recipe your own by trying some fun twists:

• Use Different Nut Butters: Try almond or cashew butter for a new flavor.
• Add Dried Fruit: Mix in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries or cherries for a tangy contrast.
• Swap the Chips: Use white chocolate, butterscotch, or dark chocolate chips instead of peanut butter chips.
• Add a Crunchy Topping: Mix crushed toffee bits or chopped peanuts into the topping mix.

Storage and Freezing Tips

• Room Temperature: Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezer Friendly: To freeze, layer bars between parchment in a freezer-safe container. Store up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

What to Pair with Chubby Hubby Bars

• Cold Milk: Classic pairing that enhances the salty-sweet combination.
• Hot Coffee or Tea: Warm beverages balance the richness of the bars.
• Milkshakes or Smoothies: Double down on indulgence with a sweet, creamy drink.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use creamy peanut butter instead of chunky?
A: Yes, creamy peanut butter works fine. Chunky just adds extra texture.

Q: How do I know when the bars are done baking?
A: The edges should be golden, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few crumbs.

Q: Can I make these bars gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and gluten-free pretzels.

Q: Can I double this recipe?
A: Yes, you can double it for a large crowd. Just use two pans or a large sheet pan, and keep an eye on baking time.

Q: Can I freeze individual bars?
A: Yes, wrap each square in plastic wrap and store in a zip-top freezer bag for grab-and-go treats.

Conclusion

Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging in a delicious treat, Chubby Hubby Bars check every box. With their irresistible combination of peanut butter, chocolate, and pretzels, they’re bound to become your new favorite dessert bar.