No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars Recipe

No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars are the perfect combination of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate. This simple, no-bake recipe is ideal for anyone looking for a quick and decadent dessert that doesn’t require an oven. Whether you’re hosting a party, craving something sweet, or want a snack to prepare with your kids, these bars are guaranteed to satisfy. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a batch of these crowd-pleasing treats in no time!


Ingredients

For the Base:

  • 1 cup (240g) creamy peanut butter
  • ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cups (250g) powdered sugar
  • 1 ½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs

For the Chocolate Topping:

  • 1 ½ cups (260g) semisweet chocolate chips
  • ¼ cup (60g) creamy peanut butter

Preparation

Step 1:
Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Set aside.

Step 2:
In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and graham cracker crumbs. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Step 3:
Press the peanut butter mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared baking dish to form the base layer.

Step 4:
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and creamy peanut butter in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted.

Step 5:
Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the peanut butter base and spread it evenly with a spatula.

Step 6:
Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours or until the chocolate is firm and set.

Step 7:
Once chilled, remove the bars from the dish using the parchment paper, and slice them into squares or rectangles. Serve and enjoy!


Variation

  • Crunchy Texture: Use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy for a nutty texture.
  • Dark Chocolate: Swap semisweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
  • Add Toppings: Sprinkle crushed pretzels, sea salt, or mini Reese’s Pieces over the chocolate layer before chilling for added flair.
  • Sugar-Free: Use sugar-free chocolate chips and powdered sweetener for a low-sugar version.

Cooking Note

  • Make sure the peanut butter and butter are fully combined for a smooth and firm base.
  • Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve these bars chilled for the best texture and flavor.
  • Pair with a glass of cold milk for a classic combination.
  • Perfect for dessert platters, potlucks, or an afternoon snack.

Tips

  • For clean cuts, let the bars rest at room temperature for 5 minutes before slicing.
  • Line the baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal and minimal mess.
  • For a softer base layer, reduce the amount of powdered sugar slightly.

Timing

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Chilling Time: 2 hours
  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Nutritional Information (per bar, approximate based on 16 servings)

  • Calories: 310
  • Protein: 5g
  • Sodium: 140mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Sugar: 26g

FAQs

Q: Can I freeze these bars?
A: Yes! These bars freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Let them thaw in the fridge before serving.

Q: Can I use natural peanut butter?
A: You can, but the bars may have a slightly softer texture. Make sure to mix the natural peanut butter thoroughly to avoid oil separation.

Q: Can I make these dairy-free?
A: Absolutely! Use dairy-free butter and dairy-free chocolate chips to make this recipe suitable for a dairy-free diet.

Q: What if I don’t have graham crackers?
A: Digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers are excellent substitutes for graham crackers.


Conclusion

These No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars are a quick and easy dessert that will become a favorite for peanut butter and chocolate lovers alike. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this recipe is perfect for any occasion, from parties to casual family gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, these bars are foolproof and always delicious. Try them today and savor the perfect blend of sweet, salty, and creamy goodness!

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