Thick, creamy, and completely irresistible, these Peanut Butter Bars are every bit as dreamy as they sound—a perfect marriage of smooth peanut butter, a hint of buttery graham cracker crunch, and a rich chocolate top that sets the whole thing off. This classic no-bake dessert comes together in just minutes, with pantry staples you’re likely to have on hand. Whether you need a last-minute treat or a crowd-pleasing sweet for your next gathering, you’ll fall in love with how deliciously easy these Peanut Butter Bars are to whip up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
You might be amazed that such a decadent treat requires only a handful of everyday ingredients! Each component has a starring role, from the buttery base to the silky chocolate-peanut topping, giving these bars their addictive taste and signature texture.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Creates a rich, smooth base and helps everything hold together beautifully.
- Graham cracker crumbs: Adds a toasty, subtle crunch that balances the creamy peanut butter.
- Powdered sugar: Blends right in, lending sweet structure to the no-bake base.
- Creamy peanut butter: The undeniable star; opt for your favorite brand for the best flavor and texture.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melts into a glossy, decadent topping that pairs perfectly with peanut butter.
- Peanut butter (for topping): Mixing a bit into the chocolate layer makes it easier to slice and adds a subtle nutty finish.
- Optional crunch add-ins: ½ cup chopped peanuts or crushed pretzels for an extra punch of texture.
How to Make Peanut Butter Bars
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Begin by lining a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure there’s some overhang on the sides. This simple step ensures you can effortlessly lift out your Peanut Butter Bars when they’re set—no sticky, crumbling messes!
Step 2: Mix the Peanut Butter Base
In a medium bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, and your 1 ½ cups of creamy peanut butter. Stir until everything is well blended and smooth—if you want extra crunch, now’s the perfect time to fold in some chopped peanuts or crushed pretzels. Press this glorious mixture firmly and evenly into your prepared pan, making a solid foundation for the chocolate layer.
Step 3: Create the Chocolate-Peanut Butter Topping
Microwave the chocolate chips and 2 tablespoons of peanut butter in short 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until you have a thick, glossy, lump-free melt. This touch of peanut butter ensures an extra-smooth, sliceable chocolate layer. Pour this mixture right over the peanut butter base, then use a spatula to spread it evenly to the edges.
Step 4: Chill Until Firm
All that’s left is patience! Pop your pan into the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate is completely firm to the touch. This wait is the hardest part—so worth it for perfect Peanut Butter Bars! Once chilled, lift the set slab out using your parchment overhang, then slice into bars.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Bars
Garnishes
Add some flair by sprinkling extra crushed peanuts, flaky sea salt, or a drizzle of melted white chocolate over the top before the bars finish setting. These finishing touches not only look beautiful, but their salty-sweet punch takes the Peanut Butter Bars to the next level!
Side Dishes
Serving these indulgent bars at a party? They’re stunning alongside a simple fruit salad, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a platter of mixed berries. The lightness of the fruit complements the richness of the bars, balancing the plate perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the typical squares! Try cutting the bars into bite-sized cubes and stacking them on skewers, or use a cookie cutter for fun shapes. Wrap individual Peanut Butter Bars in wax paper for cute giftable treats that everyone will be thrilled to receive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Peanut Butter Bars stay freshest when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll keep beautifully for up to one week. The cool temp keeps the chocolate layer firm and the base chewy and delightful with every bite.
Freezing
Love to prep ahead? Pop your cut bars into a freezer-safe container (with parchment between layers) and freeze for up to three months. Thaw your Peanut Butter Bars in the fridge or at room temperature for an instant treat whenever the craving strikes!
Reheating
No reheating is needed for this no-bake delight! If your bars have been in the freezer, let them thaw gently until the chocolate layer softens before serving for the dreamiest texture.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add extra texture and a bit of peanutty bite, giving your Peanut Butter Bars an irresistible twist. Just try to stick with the same measured amount for best results.
Do I have to use graham cracker crumbs, or can I substitute something else?
If graham crackers aren’t available, substitute similar cookies like digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers. The bars will have a slightly different flavor but still turn out scrumptious and sturdy!
How do I get clean, neat slices?
For picture-perfect bars, use a big, sharp knife (run it under hot water and wipe it dry between cuts). Make sure the bars are well-chilled before cutting for the cleanest lines.
Are Peanut Butter Bars gluten free?
To make these gluten free, use certified gluten-free graham crackers or swap in gluten-free cookies for the crumbs. Check your chocolate chips, too, to ensure there’s no hidden gluten.
Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Absolutely! Simply use two 9×13-inch pans, or grab a larger baking dish if you have one. These are always a hit—extra bars mean extra smiles!
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about a no-bake treat that’s both easy and wildly delicious. If you haven’t tried making your own Peanut Butter Bars yet, it’s turn to give these a go—you might find they become your new go-to treat for every occasion!
Print
Peanut Butter Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 24 bars 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these decadent Peanut Butter Bars that perfectly balance the creamy richness of peanut butter with a luscious chocolate topping. This no-bake dessert is a quick and easy treat to satisfy your sweet cravings.
Ingredients
For the Peanut Butter Base:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter
For the Chocolate Topping:
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp peanut butter (for topping layer)
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Mix melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, and 1 ½ cups peanut butter until smooth. Press into the pan.
- Make the Chocolate Layer: Melt chocolate chips with 2 tbsp peanut butter in the microwave. Pour over the base and spread evenly.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, then cut into bars and enjoy!
Notes
- For added crunch, consider mixing in ½ cup crushed pretzels or chopped peanuts into the peanut butter base.
- Store bars in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert, No-Bake
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: ~250 kcal
- Sugar: ~20 g
- Sodium: ~120 mg
- Fat: ~16 g
- Saturated Fat: ~7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: ~24 g
- Fiber: ~2 g
- Protein: ~5 g
- Cholesterol: ~12 mg
