These no-bake peanut butter chocolate bars are a delightful treat, combining a crunchy graham cracker base with a creamy, nutty chocolate topping. They are easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion where a little sweetness is in order.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Simple Preparation: No oven is required, making this recipe accessible for anyone.
Perfect Texture: The graham cracker base adds a bit of crunch, while the peanut butter-chocolate topping is luxuriously smooth.
Customizable: Adjust the sweetness or peanut butter to suit your preferences.
Great for Sharing: With 54 bars, this recipe is perfect for parties or family gatherings.
Versatile Storage: These bars taste just as good straight from the fridge or freezer.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 cup butter, melted
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
2 cups creamy natural peanut butter (divided)
1 to 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
Directions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, and 1 cup of peanut butter. Stir until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
Spread the mixture into the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch pan, pressing it down gently to form a solid layer.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the remaining 1 cup of peanut butter with the chocolate chips. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring each time, until fully melted and smooth.
Pour the chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the graham cracker base, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Chill the pan in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours until the bars are set and firm.
Once chilled, cut into 54 bars or your preferred size.
Store the bars in the fridge or freezer for an extra-firm texture and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 1-2 hours
Total Time: 1-2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: Makes 54 bars
Calories: Approximately 250 kcal per bar (depending on size)
Variations
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers for a celiac-friendly treat.
Dark Chocolate Lovers: Swap semisweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips for a more intense flavor.
Nutty Texture: Add chopped peanuts to the graham cracker base for an extra crunch.
Less Sweet: Reduce the powdered sugar to 1 cup for a less sweet version.
Dairy-Free: Replace the butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
Storage/Reheating
Refrigerator: Store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks.
Freezer: Freeze the bars in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw for a few minutes before enjoying.
Reheating: These bars are best served chilled, so no reheating is necessary.
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FAQs
How can I make these bars less sweet?
I recommend reducing the powdered sugar to 1 cup and using dark chocolate instead of semisweet chocolate chips.
Can I substitute the peanut butter with another nut butter?
Yes, almond butter or cashew butter works well, though it may slightly alter the flavor.
Do I need to use natural peanut butter?
While natural peanut butter is preferred for its creamy consistency and lack of added sugar, regular peanut butter can be used as well.
What’s the best way to cut the bars cleanly?
Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water, then dry it before slicing. This will help make clean cuts without cracking the chocolate layer.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars store wonderfully in the fridge or freezer, making them a perfect make-ahead dessert.
Conclusion
Peanut butter chocolate bars are a quick, no-fuss dessert that everyone loves. With their creamy chocolate-peanut butter topping and crunchy graham cracker base, these bars are irresistible. They’re simple to prepare, easy to customize, and perfect for sharing or indulging solo. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the perfect combination of sweet and nutty flavors!
📖 Recipe:
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Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars
- Total Time: 1-2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 54 bars
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These no-bake peanut butter chocolate bars are an irresistible treat featuring a crunchy graham cracker base and a smooth, creamy peanut butter-chocolate topping. Perfect for parties, holidays, or anytime you crave a decadent dessert.
Ingredients
1 cup butter, melted
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1 to 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
2 cups creamy natural peanut butter (divided)
2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, and 1 cup of peanut butter. Mix until smooth.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch pan to create an even layer.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the remaining peanut butter and chocolate chips. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Pour the chocolate mixture over the base and spread evenly with a spatula.
- Refrigerate for 1-2 hours until firm.
- Cut into 54 bars or your preferred size.
- Store in the fridge or freezer and serve chilled.
Notes
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free graham crackers.
To reduce sweetness, use dark chocolate and decrease powdered sugar to 1 cup.
Warm your knife under hot water before slicing for clean cuts.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 1-2 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 54 bars
- Calories: 250 kcal per bar (depends on size)
