These Peanut Butter Bars are the perfect combination of creamy, crunchy, and chocolatey goodness. They are incredibly easy to make and require no baking, making them a great choice for a quick and delicious dessert. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up these tasty bars that everyone will love
Full Recipe:
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Base:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled (210g)
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (300g)
- 1 ¾ cups powdered sugar (210g)
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (240g)
For the Chocolate Topping:
- 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips or milk chocolate chips (280g)
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter (65g)
Step-by-Step Directions
Prepare the Base
- Line the Dish: Line an 8×8 or 9×9 dish with parchment paper or foil, leaving some overhang to easily lift the bars out later.
- Crush Graham Crackers: Crush graham crackers in a ziplock bag using a rolling pin, or blitz them in a food processor until you have fine crumbs.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, melt the butter and let it cool slightly. Add the creamy peanut butter and mix until smooth. Beat in the powdered sugar until fully incorporated, then fold in the graham cracker crumbs until well combined.
- Transfer to Dish: Press the mixture evenly into the lined dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Prepare the Chocolate Topping
- Melt Chocolate and Peanut Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and 1/4 cup of creamy peanut butter together in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and fully melted.
- Pour Over Base: Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the peanut butter base and smooth the top with a spatula.
Chill and Serve
- Chill: Refrigerate the bars for at least 90 minutes, or until the chocolate is set.
- Cut into Bars: Once set, use the parchment paper or foil overhang to lift the bars out of the dish. Cut into squares or bars and enjoy!
Tips and Variations
- Nutty Additions: Add some chopped peanuts to the base for extra crunch.
- Chocolate Variations: Use dark chocolate or white chocolate for a different flavor profile.
- Toppings: Sprinkle some sea salt or crushed pretzels on top of the chocolate before chilling for added texture and flavor.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover peanut butter bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze the bars for up to 3 months; just let them thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but make sure to stir it well before using to incorporate the oils.
How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking when cutting?
To prevent the chocolate from cracking, use a warm knife to cut the bars. Run the knife under hot water, dry it off, and then slice.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free graham crackers to make this recipe gluten-free.
Conclusion
These Peanut Butter Bars are an easy, no-bake treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their creamy peanut butter base and rich chocolate topping, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone. Give this simple recipe a try and enjoy a delicious homemade dessert that’s both satisfying and delightful.