Is there anything better than peanut butter and chocolate together? These No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars are the ultimate crowd-pleaser—super creamy, rich, and topped with a silky chocolate layer that sets perfectly in the fridge. If you love Reese’s but want something homemade and even more satisfying, this recipe is for you.
Perfect for potlucks, after-school treats, or a quick fix when that peanut butter craving hits, these bars come together in minutes with pantry staples. Bonus? No oven required! For more no-bake goodness, check out my [Chocolate Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies] and Strawberry Icebox Cake too!
Ingredients:
Peanut Butter Layer:
- 1 cup (240g) creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Chocolate Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups (270g) semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup (60g) creamy peanut butter
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pan: Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit overhanging for easy removal.
2. Make the Base: In a large bowl, stir together melted butter, peanut butter, vanilla, and salt until smooth. Add powdered sugar and graham cracker crumbs. Mix until well combined and thick.
3. Press Into Pan: Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
4. Make the Topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until smooth.
5. Spread the Chocolate: Pour the chocolate mixture over the peanut butter layer. Smooth it out evenly.
6. Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
7. Slice & Serve: Use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out. Slice into squares and enjoy!
🍰 Serving & Presentation Tips:
- Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top before the chocolate sets for a sweet-salty twist.
- Serve on a rustic wooden board or tiered dessert stand for parties.
- Garnish with mini peanut butter cups or chopped peanuts for extra flair.
📝 Important Recipe Notes:
- Prep & Chill Time: These bars are super quick to make but need about 2 hours to chill fully.
- Ingredient Swaps: Don’t have graham crackers? Digestive biscuits work great too.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week, or freeze for longer storage.
- Make-Ahead: Make a batch the night before a party—they slice even more cleanly after an overnight chill!
❓ FAQ:
Can I freeze Peanut Butter Bars?
Absolutely! Once firm, wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Why do we use graham cracker crumbs?
They help bind the peanut butter layer and add a little texture and body, so the bars don’t end up too gooey.
Can I use natural peanut butter?
It’s best to stick with commercial creamy peanut butter (like Jif or Skippy) because natural peanut butter can cause the bars to be too oily or crumbly.
🌈 Variations:
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers.
- Vegan: Swap the butter for vegan butter and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
- Flavor Boost: Add a tablespoon of espresso powder to the chocolate layer for a mocha twist.
- Fun Toppings: Add sprinkles, mini M&Ms, or crushed pretzels on top before chilling.
👩🍳 Tips & Techniques:
- Best Peanut Butter: Choose a no-stir, creamy variety for the best texture.
- Slicing: Warm your knife under hot water and dry it before slicing for the cleanest cuts.
- Avoid Overheating: Melt the chocolate slowly to avoid seizing—short bursts in the microwave are key!
🧊 Storage Information:
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 7 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
- Thawing: Thaw overnight in the fridge or for about 30 minutes at room temp if you’re impatient!
Peanut Butter Bars
Ingredients
Peanut Butter Layer:
- 1 cup 240g creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup 115g unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups 240g powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 cups 150g graham cracker crumbs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Chocolate Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups 270g semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup 60g creamy peanut butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit overhanging for easy removal.
- Make the Base: In a large bowl, stir together melted butter, peanut butter, vanilla, and salt until smooth. Add powdered sugar and graham cracker crumbs. Mix until well combined and thick.
- Press Into Pan: Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Make the Topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until smooth.
- Spread the Chocolate: Pour the chocolate mixture over the peanut butter layer. Smooth it out evenly.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
- Slice & Serve: Use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out. Slice into squares and enjoy!
Notes
- For a crunchier texture, use crunchy peanut butter in the base layer.
- Store bars in the fridge for a firmer bite or at room temperature for a softer texture.
- Freeze well for up to 3 months—thaw in the fridge before serving.
- Calories: 260
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 18g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 90mg
- Potassium: 120mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 18g
These Peanut Butter Bars are proof that simple, no-fuss ingredients can turn into something incredibly delicious. I’d love to hear how yours turn out—snap a pic and tag me when you make them! 🍫🥜
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