No-Bake Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars

These decadent No-Bake Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars are the ultimate indulgence. With a creamy peanut butter base and a luscious chocolate topping, they’re an easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No Baking Required: Perfect for hot days or when you want a quick treat.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, these bars are budget-friendly and easy to whip up.
• Rich and Decadent: The combination of peanut butter and chocolate is always a crowd-pleaser.
• Make-Ahead Dessert: Prepare in advance for parties, potlucks, or as a sweet treat for the week.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Peanut Butter Layer

• 1 cup (230 grams) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 1 cup (250 grams) creamy peanut butter
• 2 cups (240 grams) powdered sugar
• 2 cups (240 grams) graham cracker crumbs

For the Chocolate Topping

• 1 (12-ounce) package semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup (65 grams) creamy peanut butter

Directions

Prepare the Peanut Butter Layer

1. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with foil or parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and peanut butter. Stir until smooth.
3. Add powdered sugar and mix until fully incorporated. Gradually add the graham cracker crumbs and stir until combined.
4. Press the peanut butter mixture evenly into the prepared pan to form the base layer.

Make the Chocolate Topping

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and peanut butter.
2. Microwave in 20-30 second intervals, stirring between each increment, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth.
3. Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the peanut butter layer and spread evenly with a spatula.

Chill and Serve

1. Refrigerate the bars for at least 1 1/2 hours, or until firm.
2. Use the overhanging parchment or foil to lift the bars from the pan.
3. Slice into squares or rectangles and serve.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Chilling Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes

Variations

• Nut-Free Option: Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.
• Topping Ideas: Add a sprinkle of sea salt, chopped peanuts, or mini chocolate chips on top before chilling.
• Different Chocolates: Use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or white chocolate for the topping.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs.

Storage

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

FAQs

1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

Yes, crunchy peanut butter adds texture and works well in this recipe.

2. How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking when slicing?

Let the bars sit at room temperature for a few minutes before cutting to soften the chocolate slightly.

3. Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?

Yes, almond butter or any nut butter works as a substitute.

4. What if I don’t have a microwave for melting the chocolate?

Melt the chocolate and peanut butter over a double boiler on the stovetop.

5. Can I reduce the sweetness?

You can use less powdered sugar in the peanut butter layer or opt for dark chocolate for the topping.

6. Are these bars suitable for kids?

Yes, they’re kid-friendly and perfect for school lunches or snacks.

7. How do I ensure the layers stick together?

Press the peanut butter layer firmly into the pan and pour the chocolate topping evenly to ensure adhesion.

8. Can I make these bars vegan?

Yes, use dairy-free chocolate chips, plant-based butter, and ensure the graham crackers are vegan.

9. What’s the best way to cut the bars?

Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat slices.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a larger pan or make two separate batches to accommodate the increased quantity.

Conclusion

No-Bake Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars are a rich and indulgent dessert that’s incredibly easy to make. Perfect for chocolate and peanut butter lovers, these bars are a delightful treat for any occasion. Try this recipe and enjoy the delicious layers of creamy peanut butter and smooth chocolate!

No-Bake Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars

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• Author: Asma
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• Yield: 12–16 bars 1x
• Category: Desserts
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Creamy, decadent peanut butter topped with a rich chocolate layer makes this no-bake treat irresistible. Perfect for parties, holidays, or a quick dessert fix, these bars are a peanut butter and chocolate lover’s dream.

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Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

For the Peanut Butter Layer:

• 1 cup (230 grams) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 1 cup (250 grams) creamy peanut butter
• 2 cups (240 grams) powdered sugar
• 2 cups (240 grams) graham cracker crumbs

For the Chocolate Topping:

• 1 (12-ounce) package semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup (65 grams) creamy peanut butter

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Instructions

1. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with foil or parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter and peanut butter until smooth.
3. Gradually mix in powdered sugar until fully incorporated.
4. Stir in graham cracker crumbs until evenly mixed.
5. Press the peanut butter mixture evenly into the prepared pan, forming a smooth layer.

Make the Chocolate Topping:

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter.
2. Microwave in 20–30 second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.
3. Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer and spread evenly with a spatula.

Chill and Serve:

1. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until firm.
2. Remove from the pan using the parchment paper overhang, slice into bars, and serve.

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Notes

• Storage: Keep bars in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Separate layers with wax paper to prevent sticking.
• Add a sprinkle of sea salt or drizzle with white chocolate for extra flair.