Easy No-bake Peanut Butter Bars are a delightful treat featuring a creamy peanut butter base topped with a smooth chocolate layer. These bars are perfect for anyone looking for a quick dessert that doesn't require an oven. Simply combine the ingredients, layer them, and let them set in the fridge. The result is a sweet, rich, and satisfying bar that’s ideal for any occasion.
Easy No-bake Peanut Butter Bars are a classic dessert featuring a luscious peanut butter base topped with a layer of smooth chocolate. These bars are simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients and no baking. The combination of peanut butter and chocolate creates a satisfying treat that’s perfect for a quick dessert or sweet snack.
INGREDIENTS
- Butter: 1 cup, melted
- Graham cracker crumbs: 2 cups
- Confectioners' sugar: 2 cups
- Peanut butter: 1 cup + 4 tablespoons, divided
- Milk chocolate chips: 1 ½ cups
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- In a large bowl, mix the melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, and 1 cup of peanut butter until well combined.
- Step 2:
- Spread the mixture evenly into the base of a non-greased 9x13-inch dish (or 9x9-inch dish for thicker bars).
- Step 3:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with the remaining 4 tablespoons of peanut butter. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring each time, until smooth.
- Step 4:
- Pour the melted chocolate mixture evenly over the peanut butter base.
- Step 5:
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm, before slicing into squares.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve chilled for the best texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- To freeze, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Helpful Notes
- Use creamy peanut butter for a smoother texture, but chunky peanut butter can add a fun crunch.
- Adjust the amount of powdered sugar for a sweeter or less sweet base.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef’s Tip: Add a pinch of sea salt to the chocolate layer for a balanced sweet-salty flavor.
Why You’ll Love These No-bake Bars
These peanut butter bars are perfect for those who want a sweet treat without the hassle of baking. The rich, creamy layers make them a crowd-pleaser at any event.
Customize Your Bars
Add a layer of chopped nuts, marshmallows, or even a drizzle of caramel for added texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate?
Yes, dark chocolate can be substituted for a less sweet version of the bars.
Are these bars gluten-free?
No, but you can use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs to make them gluten-free.
Can I make these vegan?
Yes, substitute the butter, chocolate chips, and peanut butter with vegan-friendly alternatives.
How long do these bars last?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, they can last up to 1 week.
Summary
Easy No-bake Peanut Butter Bars are a simple and delicious dessert option that combines the classic flavors of peanut butter and chocolate. The base layer is a blend of butter, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, and peanut butter, providing a rich and chewy texture. Topped with a smooth chocolate-peanut butter layer, these bars offer a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. They require minimal effort and no oven time, making them an ideal treat for busy days or last-minute gatherings. Just refrigerate, slice, and enjoy!