Preparation Steps

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan or line with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, cream together the peanut butter, softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
• Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
• Stir in the chocolate chips, if using.
• Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.
• Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set.
• Allow to cool completely in the pan before cutting into 16 squares.