Peanut Butter Toffee Bars (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 57 grams unsalted butter
02 - 135 grams creamy peanut butter
03 - 150 grams dark brown sugar
04 - 1 large egg at room temperature
05 - 1 egg yolk at room temperature
06 - 1 tablespoon milk, any kind
07 - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
08 - 127 grams all-purpose flour
09 - 1 teaspoon baking powder
10 - 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
11 - 128 grams toffee bits, divided
12 - 113 grams semisweet chocolate, chopped into chunks, divided
13 - Flaky sea salt for topping (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a metal 8 by 8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Spray with nonstick cooking spray.
02 - In a large bowl, melt the butter and peanut butter until smooth. Add the sugar to the hot mixture, stirring to combine. Let cool to about 80°F before proceeding.
03 - Whisk in the egg, egg yolk, milk, and vanilla into the cooled mixture until well combined.
04 - Stir in the flour, baking powder, and salt with a rubber spatula. Fold in three-quarters of the toffee bits and chocolate chunks.
05 - Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Sprinkle with the remaining toffee bits and chocolate chunks.
06 - For best flavor and texture, cover the pan with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate overnight or up to 3 days.
07 - Bake for about 26 minutes or until the top and edges are golden brown. Remove from the oven onto a wire rack.
08 - Sprinkle with flaky sea salt, if desired. Let the pan set for three hours for optimal flavor and texture before cutting into squares and serving.
09 - Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.

# Notes:

01 - For the strongest peanut butter flavor, use natural peanut butter that is well-stirred to ensure consistent texture.
02 - Chilling the dough for 24-72 hours enhances the butterscotch notes and chewy texture.