Prepare to indulge in chocolate-peanut butter heaven with this irresistible Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Bark! This delightful treat combines the smooth richness of melted chocolate with the creamy sweetness of peanut butter, all studded with colorful Reese’s Pieces candies for that perfect crunch and pop of color.
What makes this bark so special is how it captures the beloved flavor combination that’s made Reese’s famous, but in an easy homemade format that requires no baking. It’s the perfect treat for holiday gift-giving, movie nights, or anytime you need a quick chocolate fix that will impress everyone who tries it.
Why You’ll Love This
- No baking required – just melt, spread, and chill!
- Only 5 ingredients needed for this impressive treat
- Perfect make-ahead dessert that stores beautifully
- Customizable with your favorite mix-ins and toppings
- Great for gifting in decorative bags or tins
Ingredients
- 3 1/2 cups (637g) milk chocolate chips, divided
- 1 cup (258g) creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup (125g) confectioners’ sugar
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (188g) Reese’s Pieces candy
Instructions
- Line a 10×15-inch baking pan with wax paper and set aside.
- Add 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips to a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 20-second increments, stirring after each, until completely melted and smooth. Spread evenly over the wax paper, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Refrigerate the chocolate layer until set, about 10 minutes.
- In a medium bowl, combine peanut butter, confectioners’ sugar, and softened butter. Use a hand mixer on medium speed to blend until smooth. Spread this mixture evenly over the chilled chocolate layer.
- Return to the refrigerator until the peanut butter layer is set, about 5-10 minutes.
- Melt the remaining 2 cups of chocolate chips in the microwave using the same 20-second increment method. Spread evenly over the set peanut butter layer.
- While the top chocolate layer is still soft, sprinkle Reese’s Pieces candy over the surface, gently pressing them into the chocolate so they adhere.
- Refrigerate until completely set, about 10 minutes. Once firm, break into pieces and store in an airtight container.
Tips & Variations
- For a sweeter bark, use milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet.
- Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a sweet-salty contrast that enhances the flavors.
- Try using crunchy peanut butter for extra texture throughout the bark.
- Mix in some mini peanut butter cups or chocolate chips for even more decadence.
- If the bark is too hard to break by hand, let it sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before cutting with a sharp knife.
- For a festive holiday version, use seasonal colored Reese’s Pieces or add holiday sprinkles.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this peanut butter bark alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special dessert, or pair it with a hot cup of coffee or cold glass of milk for the perfect sweet treat. For an indulgent dessert board, arrange broken pieces of bark with fresh berries, other chocolate treats, and perhaps some caramel dipping sauce.
This bark also makes a wonderful homemade gift – just package pieces in a decorative tin or cellophane bag tied with a pretty ribbon for a thoughtful gesture that anyone with a sweet tooth will appreciate.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months – just thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- For clean cuts, use a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry.
- The bark is ready when it feels firm to the touch and has lost its glossy appearance.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?
While you can use natural peanut butter, commercial brands like Jif or Skippy work best as they contain stabilizers that help the bark set properly.
My chocolate seized up while melting. What happened?
Chocolate can seize if even a tiny amount of water gets into it. Make sure all utensils and bowls are completely dry, and avoid microwaving for too long at once.
Can I make this recipe without peanut butter?
Yes! You can substitute almond butter, cookie butter, or another nut butter of your choice, though this will change the classic Reese’s flavor profile.
Why isn’t my bark setting properly?
If your bark isn’t hardening, it may need more time in the refrigerator. Also check that you used the correct ratio of chocolate to peanut butter, as too much peanut butter can prevent proper setting.
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