Easy No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars
If you're seeking a quick, indulgent treat without turning on the oven, these Easy No Bake Peanut Butter Bars are your answer. With a rich, satisfying texture and a harmonious blend of peanut butter and chocolate, this recipe is a must for any dessert lover.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Melted Unsalted Butter
- 2 cups Graham Cracker Crumbs
- 2 cups Powdered Sugar
- 1 cup Creamy Peanut Butter
- 1 ½ cups Milk Chocolate Chips
- ¼ cup Creamy Peanut Butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line a 9x13 inch pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides to act as "handles." This will make it much easier to lift the bars out for clean slicing later. For thicker bars, you can use a 9x9 inch pan.
- Form the Base: In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, and 1 cup of peanut butter. Mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are well-blended and no dry spots of powdered sugar remain. The mixture will be thick.
- Press the Base: Transfer the peanut butter mixture to your prepared pan. Using a spatula or the back of a spoon, press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the pan. A flat-bottomed glass can also help create a compact, even layer.
- Prepare the Chocolate Topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the milk chocolate chips and the remaining ¼ cup of peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each one, until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate.
- Assemble and Chill: Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the pressed peanut butter base and spread it into an even layer with a spatula.
- Set the Bars: Refrigerate the pan for at least one hour, or until the chocolate is firm. For the cleanest cuts, let the bars sit at room temperature for a few minutes before slicing so the chocolate doesn't crack.
Notes
Recipe Variations
- Add Some Crunch: Mix in ½ cup of crispy rice cereal with the peanut butter base for added texture.
- Change the Base: Instead of graham crackers, try using crushed vanilla wafers, Biscoff cookies, or even pretzels for a sweet and salty twist.
- Experiment with Toppings: Use semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a richer, less sweet finish. You can also sprinkle the top with flaky sea salt, chopped peanuts, or sprinkles before chilling.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!