Description
Indulgent no-bake chocolate peanut butter bars combine creamy peanut butter with rich chocolate for a quick dessert. Chocolate lovers will savor this simple, irresistible treat that requires minimal ingredients and zero oven time.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup (113 g) butter, melted
- 1 3/4 cups (220 g) powdered sugar
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1 1/4 cups (213 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup (60 g) peanut butter (for topping)
Instructions
- Combine peanut butter, melted butter, powdered sugar, and graham cracker crumbs in a large mixing bowl, stirring until the mixture forms a cohesive, smooth consistency.
- Transfer the mixture into a parchment-lined 8×8-inch pan, using a spatula or your hands to create an even, compact layer across the bottom.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips and additional peanut butter, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring between each interval until the mixture becomes completely smooth and glossy.
- Carefully pour the warm chocolate mixture over the peanut butter base, using a spatula to distribute it evenly and create a uniform top layer.
- Place the pan in the refrigerator and allow the bars to chill for approximately 2 hours, or until the chocolate layer has fully set and becomes firm to the touch.
- Remove the pan from the refrigerator and lift the parchment paper to transfer the entire block onto a cutting surface.
- Using a sharp knife, slice the chilled block into individual bars of desired size, creating clean, precise cuts.
- Serve the bars immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Notes
- Swap graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or oat flour for a celiac-friendly version.
- Reduce powdered sugar or use a sugar substitute like stevia for a lower-sugar treat that’s still deliciously sweet.
- Elevate the chocolate layer by using dark chocolate chips for a richer, more intense flavor profile that balances the creamy peanut butter.
- Sprinkle sea salt or chopped nuts on top before chilling to add a crunchy texture and enhance the overall taste experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Desserts
- Method: Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 297 kcal
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 110 mg
- Fat: 23 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0.1 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg