Description
No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars
Ingredients
Base Layer:
1 cup peanut butter (creamy)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 cups powdered sugar
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
Chocolate Topping:
1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/4 cup peanut butter
Optional Garnish:
Flaky sea salt
Directions
Prepare the Base Layer:
In a bowl, mix peanut butter, melted butter, powdered sugar, and graham cracker crumbs until well combined.
Press the mixture evenly into a greased or parchment-lined 9×9-inch baking dish.
Make the Chocolate Topping:
Melt chocolate chips and peanut butter in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
Assemble:
Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the peanut butter base. Spread evenly.
Chill:
Refrigerate for 2 hours or until set.
Slice & Serve:
Sprinkle with flaky sea salt (optional). Cut into squares and enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 16 bars
Calories: ~290 kcal per bar
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect bars every time. First, line a 9×9-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two sides for easy removal. For the base, ensure your butter is melted but not hot to avoid melting the peanut butter. In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and melted butter first, stirring until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and graham cracker crumbs, mixing until a thick, uniform dough forms. Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan. Use the bottom of a flat glass or measuring cup, lightly greased, to press the mixture into a firm, even layer.
For the topping, combine the chocolate chips and 1/4 cup peanut butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring thoroughly after each interval, until completely smooth. This usually takes 60-90 seconds total. Pour the chocolate over the base layer and gently tilt the pan to spread it evenly. A small offset spatula can help create a perfect finish.
Serving Suggestions
These rich bars are incredibly versatile. For an elegant touch, sprinkle with flaky sea salt immediately after spreading the chocolate. You can also garnish with chopped peanuts, a drizzle of extra peanut butter, or even crushed pretzels for a sweet-and-salty crunch. Serve them chilled straight from the fridge with a glass of cold milk or a cup of coffee. For a party, cut them into smaller, bite-sized pieces.
How-to Summary
In summary: 1) Line a 9×9 pan. 2) Mix base ingredients (peanut butter, melted butter, powdered sugar, graham crumbs) and press firmly into the pan. 3) Melt chocolate chips with peanut butter and spread over the base. 4) Chill for 2+ hours until set. 5) Slice and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use natural peanut butter?
We recommend using conventional creamy peanut butter for best results. Natural peanut butter can separate and make the base layer oily and less firm.
How should I store these bars?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The chilled bars hold their shape and have the best texture.
Can I freeze them?
Absolutely! Freeze the whole pan or individual bars wrapped in plastic and placed in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
What can I use instead of graham cracker crumbs?
Digestive biscuits or crushed vanilla wafers are excellent substitutes. For a gluten-free option, use certified gluten-free graham crackers or gluten-free cookie crumbs.
My chocolate topping is too thick. What happened?
This usually means the chocolate was overheated. Ensure you microwave in short bursts and stir well. If it’s still thick, stir in a teaspoon of coconut oil to smooth it out.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not lining the pan, which makes removing and cutting the bars very difficult.
- Using hot melted butter, which can cause the peanut butter to separate and create a greasy base.
- Under-mixing the base, leading to a crumbly texture instead of a firm, cohesive layer.
- Overheating the chocolate, which can cause it to seize or become grainy. Always use low, slow heat.
- Cutting the bars before they are fully set, resulting in messy squares. Patience is key.
Conclusion
These No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars are the ultimate easy dessert, delivering maximum flavor with minimal effort. They perfectly balance rich peanut butter and smooth chocolate, requiring no oven and just a handful of pantry staples. By following this enhanced guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a crowd-pleasing treat that’s sure to become a regular in your dessert rotation. Enjoy the delicious results of your simple, no-fuss baking session!