When it comes to the perfect marriage of creamy, nutty, and chocolatey, nothing delivers quite like Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars. With a delightfully soft peanut butter base, a smooth chocolate-peanut butter topping, and a touch of salty-sweet magic, this no-bake recipe comes together effortlessly and vanishes just as quickly. Whether you’re baking for a special event or simply treating yourself, these bars are unfussy, nostalgic, and guaranteed to bring smiles with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Just a handful of pantry staples is all it takes to create Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars that taste like you spent hours in the kitchen. Each component plays a star role, from the buttery crust to the glossy chocolate finish—so don’t skimp on quality if you can help it!
- Unsalted Butter (1 cup, melted): Melted butter binds the base and adds a rich, melt-in-your-mouth quality that’s essential for the bars’ texture.
- Graham Cracker Crumbs (2 cups): These provide a sturdy yet tender structure, contributing a lovely hint of caramelized crunch.
- Powdered Sugar (2 cups): For the base’s signature sweetness and smooth consistency, powdered sugar is the key—no grainy texture here.
- Creamy Peanut Butter (1 cup plus 1/4 cup, divided): The main event! Creamy peanut butter imparts unmatched creaminess and that crave-worthy peanut flavor in both layers.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (1 1/2 cups): These melt down to create a beautifully bittersweet chocolate topping that perfectly balances the sweetness below.
How to Make Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars
Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Butter Base
Start by grabbing a medium mixing bowl and combining the melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, and 1 cup of creamy peanut butter. Mix until everything is wonderfully blended together, with no streaks of dry crumbs lingering. This mixture forms the irresistible, fudgy base of your bars.
Step 2: Press and Set the Base
Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal later. Scoop the peanut butter mixture into the prepared pan and press it down firmly with a spatula—or your clean hands—until it forms a smooth, even layer that reaches every corner.
Step 3: Make the Chocolate Topping
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and the remaining 1/4 cup of peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring each time, until the chocolate melts and everything stirs together into a shiny, homogeneous glaze. The extra peanut butter in this layer helps the chocolate cut cleanly and stay luscious at fridge temperature.
Step 4: Assemble and Chill
Pour the melted chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the peanut butter base, spreading it to the edges with an offset spatula or the back of a spoon. Refrigerate the entire pan for at least two hours, or until the chocolate is set and the bars are thoroughly chilled. Trust me, the waiting only makes the reward sweeter.
Step 5: Slice and Enjoy
Once your Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars are firm, remove them from the pan using the parchment paper. Use a sharp knife to cut the slab into even bars—wiping the blade between cuts for clean, beautiful edges. Serve chilled for a firmer texture or let them sit at room temperature for a softer bite.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars
Garnishes
A sprinkle of flaky sea salt over the chocolate before chilling adds an irresistible contrast and amps up the chocolate and peanut butter flavor. You could also top with chopped roasted peanuts, mini chocolate chips, or even a dusting of powdered sugar for extra flair.
Side Dishes
Since Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars are quite rich, a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of coffee makes the perfect companion. If you want to set out a dessert tray, fresh berries or crisp apple slices bring a welcomed fruity balance to the proceedings.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the bars into bite-sized squares and serve them in mini cupcake liners for parties, or package a few in cellophane bags tied with ribbon as a thoughtful homemade gift. You can even layer different chocolates on top to create a marbled effect that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars keep wonderfully! Simply store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Layer parchment or wax paper between rows to keep them from sticking together.
Freezing
If you want to make them well ahead or save some for a rainy day, these bars freeze beautifully. Place the cut bars in a single layer on a lined baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep up to three months; just thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
Since these bars are meant to be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, reheating isn’t necessary. If you prefer a gooier texture, let them stand at room temperature for a few minutes before biting in—just watch out, as the chocolate layer softens quickly!
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely, crunchy peanut butter adds extra texture and a nutty surprise. If you’re a fan of added crunch, it’s a fantastic swap; just know your bars will have more bite!
Are there gluten-free options for the base?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or swap in gluten-free digestive biscuits. The flavor won’t miss a beat, and everyone can enjoy Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars worry-free.
Can I make these bars dairy-free?
You can! Substitute a non-dairy butter alternative for the base, and be sure to choose dairy-free chocolate chips. The results are just as decadent and satisfying.
How should I cut the bars for neat, clean edges?
For the sharpest cuts, use a large, sharp knife and wipe it clean between slices. Chilling the bars well before slicing also ensures the layers stay distinct and beautiful.
Why do my chocolate and peanut butter sometimes separate?
This generally happens if the chocolate topping sets too quickly, or if the layers weren’t evenly spread. Make sure the base is evenly pressed and the chocolate is poured and smoothed promptly for the best result.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a treat that’s as comforting as it is luxurious, these Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars are about to become your go-to recipe. They’re easy, crowd-pleasing, and deliver that classic flavor combo everyone loves. Give them a try—you’ll want to make a double batch next time!
Print
Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes (plus 2 hours chilling)
- Yield: 24 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the perfect combination of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate with these easy no-bake Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars. A simple treat that’s great for any occasion!
Ingredients
Base Layer:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
Top Layer:
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter (for topping layer)
Instructions
- Prepare Base Layer: In a medium bowl, combine melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, and 1 cup of peanut butter. Mix until well blended. Press mixture into the bottom of a parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and 1/4 cup of peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until melted and smooth.
- Assemble: Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the peanut butter layer and spread evenly.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until fully set.
- Serve: Once firm, cut into bars and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- For a crunchier texture, stir in 1/2 cup chopped peanuts to the base layer.
- You can also use dark or milk chocolate chips depending on your taste.
- Store bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
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