Tagalongs Cookie Bars

If you’re a fan of those delightful Girl Scout cookies known as Tagalongs, you’re in for a treat! Today, we’re turning those classic flavors into an easy-to-make dessert that is sure to please both kids and adults alike. These Tagalongs Cookie Bars combine a buttery cookie base, a creamy peanut butter filling, and a rich chocolate layer on top. Each bite is a sweet reminder of the original cookies, but with a fun twist that makes them perfect for sharing—or for keeping all to yourself!

Why This Tagalongs Cookie Bars Stands Out

What makes these Tagalongs Cookie Bars so special? Well, it’s the perfect combination of texture and flavor. The buttery cookie base is soft yet sturdy enough to hold up to the creamy peanut butter filling, which is rich and indulgent. Topping it all off is a luscious chocolate layer that melts in your mouth. Plus, these bars are incredibly easy to make and can be whipped up in no time, making them an ideal dessert for any occasion.

What We’re Using

• 1 cup unsalted butter, extremely soft (1 stick) – This adds a rich flavor to our cookie base.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour – The backbone of our cookie crust.
• 1 cup confectioners sugar – For sweetness, helping create a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch – This helps to create a tender cookie.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a lovely depth of flavor.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – Enhances the richness of the peanut butter layer.
• 1 heaping cup creamy peanut butter – Make sure to use a brand that’s not too runny for the best texture.
• 1 cup confectioners sugar – Sweetens the peanut butter filling.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – A hint of sweetness in the filling.
• 1 teaspoon salt, optional and to taste – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
• 1 heaping cup (about 8 ounces) semi-sweet chocolate chips – The finishing touch on our bars.
• 2 tablespoons vegetable shortening, optional but recommended – Helps the chocolate layer stay softer and easier to slice.

Equipment at a Glance

• Mixing bowls – For combining the ingredients.
• 9×9-inch baking pan – Perfect size for these bars.
• Spatula – For spreading the layers evenly.
• Parchment paper – To line the pan for easy removal.
• Microwave-safe bowl – For melting chocolate chips.

Mastering Tagalongs Cookie Bars: How-To

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave some overhang on the sides. This will make it easier to lift the bars out later.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Base

In a mixing bowl, cream together the 1 cup unsalted butter and 1 cup confectioners sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, followed by the 1 cup all-purpose flour and 1 tablespoon cornstarch. Mix until just combined.

Step 3: Bake the Cookie Layer

Spread the cookie dough evenly in the prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are golden. Allow it to cool completely in the pan.

Step 4: Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling

In another bowl, mix together the 1 heaping cup creamy peanut butter, 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter, 1 cup confectioners sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon salt (if using). Stir until smooth and well combined.

Step 5: Assemble the Bars

Once the cookie base has cooled, spread the peanut butter mixture evenly over the top. Use a spatula to make sure it’s smooth and even.

Step 6: Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 heaping cup semi-sweet chocolate chips and 2 tablespoons vegetable shortening (if using). Heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.

Step 7: Top with Chocolate

Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer, spreading it evenly with the spatula. Allow it to cool at room temperature, or place it in the fridge to set faster.

Step 8: Slice and Serve

Once the chocolate has set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Slice into squares or rectangles and serve. Enjoy your homemade Tagalongs Cookie Bars!

Smart Substitutions

• For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a richer flavor.
• If you prefer, you can use crunchy peanut butter for added texture in the filling.
• Replace vegetable shortening with coconut oil for a natural alternative.

Things That Go Wrong

Sometimes, even the simplest recipes can have their hiccups. Here are a few common issues you might encounter while making Tagalongs Cookie Bars:

• Crumbly Cookie Base: If your cookie base crumbles, it may be due to overmixing or not enough butter. Be sure to mix until just combined.
• Too Soft Peanut Butter Layer: If your peanut butter filling is too runny, using a brand that’s too thin can be the culprit. Stick to a creamy, non-natural peanut butter.
• Chocolate Cracking: If the chocolate layer cracks when slicing, try adding the vegetable shortening to keep it softer.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

You might be wondering how to store these delicious Tagalongs Cookie Bars. Here’s how:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• You can also freeze these bars! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, and they’ll last for up to 3 months.
• To enjoy frozen bars, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving.

Popular Questions

Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?

It’s best to avoid natural peanut butter as it tends to be too runny, which can affect the texture of the filling. Stick to a creamy, conventional brand for the best results.

How can I make these bars more chocolatey?

You can drizzle additional melted chocolate on top after the initial layer has set, or you can mix chocolate chips directly into the peanut butter filling for extra richness.

What if I don’t have cornstarch?

If you don’t have cornstarch on hand, you can omit it, but the texture of the cookie base may be slightly less tender.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! Just double the ingredients and use a larger baking pan, like a 9×13-inch pan, to ensure they bake evenly.

Next Up in Your Queue

• Chocolate Caramel Cookies – A decadent alternative for chocolate lovers.
• Edible Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough – Perfect for a no-bake treat.

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have all the details for making these scrumptious Tagalongs Cookie Bars, it’s time to get baking! Gather your ingredients, follow the step-by-step guide, and enjoy the process of creating something delicious. Your friends and family are going to love these bars, and you might just find yourself making them again and again. Happy baking!