Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars

Peanut butter chocolate bars are a rich, no-bake dessert featuring a luscious peanut butter filling layered over a chocolatey base, all topped with smooth dark chocolate. These bars deliver a perfect harmony of salty and sweet in every bite and are a favorite among dessert lovers for their simplicity and indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dessert is incredibly easy to make, requires no baking, and uses only a handful of pantry staples. It’s perfect for parties, holidays, or anytime you need a crowd-pleasing sweet treat. The balance of creamy peanut butter and silky chocolate offers a decadent experience without the need for complicated techniques or tools.

ingredients

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

• Graham cracker crumbs

• Unsalted butter, melted

• Powdered sugar

• Creamy peanut butter

• Semisweet or dark chocolate chips

• Peanut butter (for melting with chocolate topping)

• Vanilla extract (optional)

directions

1. Line a square baking pan with parchment paper.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, melted butter, and peanut butter. Stir until smooth and well combined.

3. Press the peanut butter mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to flatten the surface.

4. In a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler, melt the chocolate chips with a spoonful of peanut butter. Stir until completely smooth.

5. Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the peanut butter base and spread evenly.

6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until fully set.

7. Once firm, slice into squares or bars and serve.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 16 bars

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes

• Chilling Time: 2 hours

• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Add crushed pretzels to the base for added crunch and saltiness.

• Use crunchy peanut butter for a textured filling.

• Swap chocolate chips for white or milk chocolate for a different flavor profile.

• Add a sprinkle of sea salt or crushed peanuts on top before chilling.

• For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free graham crackers.

storage/reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months in a sealed container with parchment between layers.

• Reheating: These bars are best served cold or at room temperature. No reheating is necessary.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, but make sure it’s well stirred and not too oily or runny, as it may affect the texture of the bars.

What type of chocolate works best?

Semisweet or dark chocolate chips are ideal, but any good quality melting chocolate will work.

Can I make these bars dairy-free?

Use dairy-free butter and chocolate to make the bars suitable for dairy-free diets.

Do the bars need to be refrigerated?

Yes, they must be kept chilled to maintain firmness and structure, especially the chocolate layer.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, though it may slightly alter the texture. You can reduce the powdered sugar or use a sugar substitute designed for no-bake recipes.

How do I prevent the chocolate layer from cracking when cutting?

Allow the bars to sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before slicing, and use a sharp knife dipped in warm water.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply use a larger pan and double all ingredients proportionally. Adjust the chilling time slightly if needed.

Are these bars gluten-free?

They are not inherently gluten-free, but can be adapted by using gluten-free graham cracker crumbs.

What if I don’t have graham crackers?

You can substitute with crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even pretzels.

Can I use almond or cashew butter instead?

Yes, any nut butter can be substituted, though it will slightly change the flavor of the bars.

Conclusion

Peanut butter chocolate bars are a delightful, fuss-free dessert that combines creamy, nutty richness with smooth chocolate in every bite. Whether you are hosting a celebration or simply indulging in a sweet craving, this no-bake treat is both convenient and satisfying. Simple to prepare and universally loved, it deserves a permanent spot in your dessert rotation.

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