Delicious Chewy Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Bars

Description: These are the *best* bars and so easy to make, the trick to these is not to overbake, mine bake out perfectly in a 350 degree oven, second-lowest rack for 22 minutes, servings is only estimated --- add in 1 teaspoon cinnamon also if desired --- this was developed using full-fat peanut butter :)

Ingredients:

• 1 cup butter or 1 cup margarine, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, well packed
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla (can use 1 tablespoon maple syrup or 2 teaspoons maple extract)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 1/4 cups peanut butter
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 cups oatmeal (I use half quick cooking and regular oats)
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Steps:

1. Set oven to 350 degrees.
2. Set oven rack to second-lowest position.
3. Grease a 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
4. In a large bowl using an electric mixer at medium speed cream the butter with both sugars and vanilla until no sugar granules remain (about 4 minutes).
5. Add in the peanut butter and beat until combined.
6. Add in eggs and beat until combined.
7. In a bowl combine the flour with baking soda and oats; add to the creamed mixture and mix on low speed until combined.
8. Mix in chocolate chips.
9. Transfer and spread into prepared baking dish.
10. Bake for 22-25 minutes or until JUST set (do not overbake).
11. Cool then cut into squares.