No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars (Printable)
Creamy peanut butter bars with a chocolate-peanut topping, chilled until set for easy, indulgent servings.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Base
01 - 1 cup creamy peanut butter
02 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
03 - 2 cups powdered sugar
04 - 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
05 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
→ Topping
06 - 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
07 - 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
# How-to Steps:
01 - Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, blend melted butter and 1 cup creamy peanut butter until fully smooth.
03 - Add powdered sugar and graham cracker crumbs to the bowl, then stir in vanilla extract. Mix until a thick, homogenous dough forms.
04 - Transfer the peanut butter mixture into the pan and press evenly across the bottom, smoothing the surface with a spatula.
05 - In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the mixture is fully melted and smooth.
06 - Pour the melted chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the base and spread into an even layer using a spatula.
07 - Refrigerate uncovered for a minimum of 2 hours until the entire slab is set and firm.
08 - Remove from the pan using the overhanging parchment, slice into 16 bars, and serve chilled.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The chocolate and peanut butter layers set up into decadent perfection with barely any effort.
- Cleanup is easy, and you won't need to turn on an oven even on the hottest days.
02 -
- Once I rushed the chilling and my bars crumbled; patience brings you perfect slices every time.
- Mixing in the topping peanut butter isn't negotiable – it keeps the chocolate from cracking when you slice.
03 -
- When mixing the base, use a sturdy spatula so it doesn t stick to your hands as much.
- A sprinkle of flaky salt on top right after spreading the chocolate adds irresistible crunch and flavor.