It all started on a cozy, rainy afternoon. With a craving for something sweet and no desire to bake, I rummaged through my pantry and discovered the perfect combination of ingredients. The result? These creamy, chocolatey bars that have since become my go-to recipe for everything from potlucks to spontaneous sweet-tooth fixes. With no oven required, these treats come together in no time, leaving you with more moments to savor the joy of simplicity and flavor.
Why You’ll Love These Bars
- No Oven Needed: Perfect for hot days or busy schedules.
- Quick & Simple: Just 10 minutes of prep, and the fridge does the rest!
- Rich Flavor: A match made in heaven with peanut butter and chocolate.
- Customizable: Add your personal flair with toppings or ingredient swaps.
Ingredients Breakdown
- Salted Butter: Adds richness and balances the sweetness. Use unsalted if preferred, but add a pinch of salt.
- Creamy Peanut Butter: The star ingredient! Use chunky for added texture if desired.
- Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and binds the base; ensures a smooth texture.
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: Adds a hint of crunch and forms the foundation of the bars.
- Chocolate Chips + Peanut Butter: Creates the glossy, velvety top layer.
Storing the Bars
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Freezer: Wrap individually in cling film and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Customization Ideas
- Nut Butter Alternatives: Try almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter for a unique flavor.
- Vegan-Friendly: Use plant-based butter and dairy-free chocolate chips for a vegan version.
- Toppings: Add crushed nuts, sea salt, or sprinkles for extra flair.
- Base Variations: Experiment with different crumbs like Oreos, digestives, or graham crackers for a distinct twist.
With their rich, indulgent flavor and effortless preparation, No Bake Peanut Butter Bars are a dessert lover’s dream. Whether you keep them classic or add a creative twist, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. 🍫🥜✨
SAVE THIS RECIPE TO YOUR FAVORITE PINTEREST BOARD!
No Bake Peanut Butter Bars
Indulge in rich, creamy decadence with these No Bake Peanut Butter Bars! Combining the perfect blend of melted butter, peanut butter, powdered sugar, and graham cracker crumbs, topped with a luscious chocolate-peanut butter layer, this quick and easy recipe is a must-try for dessert or snack lovers.
Ingredients
Base Layer:
- 1 cup salted butter melted
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
Chocolate Layer:
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
Instructions
Prepare the Base Layer:
- Line the Pan
- Line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving enough overhang for easy removal later.
- Mix the Base Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and peanut butter until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Gradually sift in the powdered sugar, stirring continuously to ensure it blends well without lumps.
- Fold in the graham cracker crumbs in two additions, mixing until the texture resembles a dough.
- Form the Base Layer
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan and press it down evenly with a spatula or your hands, ensuring a compact and smooth layer. Pay special attention to spreading it into the corners and edges.
Prepare the Chocolate Layer:
- Melt the Chocolate Mixture
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and peanut butter.
- Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth.
- Spread the Chocolate Layer
- Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the prepared base layer.
- Use a spatula to spread it evenly, covering the entire surface.
Set and Slice:
- Chill the Bars
- Refrigerate the pan for at least 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the chocolate layer is fully set and firm.
- Slice and Serve
- Once chilled, lift the entire block out of the pan using the parchment or foil overhang.
- Slice into bars of your desired size and serve.
