Chocolate and peanut butter – is there a more perfect pairing in the dessert world? These Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars bring together these two beloved flavors in a treat that’s simultaneously rich, creamy, and utterly irresistible. With a buttery graham cracker base, a smooth peanut butter middle layer, and a glossy chocolate topping, they deliver triple-layered bliss in every bite.
What makes these bars truly special is their no-bake simplicity combined with their bakery-quality taste. Perfect for potlucks, after-school treats, or when you’re craving something sweet without turning on the oven, these bars will quickly become a go-to recipe in your dessert rotation.
Why You’ll Love This
- No baking required – just mix, layer, and chill for a stress-free dessert
- Only 45 minutes total time – with most of that being hands-off chilling time
- Perfect make-ahead treat – they actually taste better after sitting overnight
- Customizable sweetness – easily adjust to your preference
- Kid and adult approved – satisfies peanut butter cup cravings with homemade goodness
Ingredients
- ½ cup salted butter
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted
Instructions
- Line an 8×8 baking dish with foil or parchment paper and leave some overhang on the sides to make it easier to lift the bars from pan.
- In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. To the melted butter, add the powdered sugar, graham cracker crumbs, and peanut butter. Mix until well combined.
- Spread the peanut butter mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan, pressing down firmly to create a smooth, even layer.
- In a medium microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and smooth.
- Carefully spread the melted chocolate evenly over the peanut butter layer with an offset spatula.
- Refrigerate for 1 hour until firm.
- Remove the bars from the pan using the overhanging foil/parchment and carefully slice into 16 bars. Serve and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- Crunchy version: Use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy for added texture.
- Extra decadent: Add 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips to the peanut butter layer.
- Cutting tip: For clean cuts, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between slices.
- Allergen-friendly: Substitute sunflower seed butter for peanut butter for a nut-free version.
- Flavor twist: Add 1/2 teaspoon of espresso powder to the chocolate layer to enhance the chocolate flavor.
- Decorative touch: Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top of the chocolate layer before it sets.
Serving Suggestions
These Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars are perfect on their own, but for an extra special dessert experience, serve them slightly chilled with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The contrast between the cold, creamy bars and the soft ice cream creates a delightful texture play.
For a casual gathering, arrange them on a platter alongside fresh berries and a pot of coffee or cold milk for dipping. The fruity acidity of berries helps balance the richness of these indulgent treats.
Notes
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Bars can be frozen for up to 3 months – just thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Allow bars to sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving for the perfect texture.
- The chocolate layer should be glossy and firm but not too hard when properly set.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?
While natural peanut butter works, the oil separation can affect the texture. If using natural peanut butter, make sure it’s well-stirred and consider adding an extra tablespoon of powdered sugar to help with stability.
My chocolate layer cracked when I cut the bars. How can I prevent this?
Let the bars sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before cutting. This softens the chocolate just enough to prevent cracking.
Can I make these bars without graham crackers?
Yes! Digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even crushed pretzels make excellent substitutes for the crust layer.
How do I know when these bars are ready to serve?
The bars are ready when the chocolate layer is completely set but not too hard. When you press gently on the surface, it should be firm with minimal give.
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