Easy No-bake Peanut Butter Bars

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.

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Conclusion

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!