Reese's Pieces Peanut Butter Bark

This Reese's Pieces peanut butter bark is my emergency dessert stash. I started making it years ago when I needed a last-minute treat for a school bake sale, and now it's my go-to when chocolate cravings hit or unexpected guests drop by. There's something irresistible about those layers - snappy chocolate on the bottom, creamy peanut butter filling in the middle, another layer of chocolate on top, all studded with those crunchy little Reese's Pieces candy bites.

Last Christmas, I packaged this bark in little cellophane bags tied with ribbon as part of gift baskets. My brother-in-law, who rarely comments on food, texted me two days later asking if I had any more 'that peanut butter chocolate thing' hidden somewhere. He'd already finished his portion and was hoping for seconds.

Simple Ingredients

• Milk chocolate chips: The milk chocolate works perfectly with the peanut butter flavor. You could use semi-sweet if that's what you have, but milk chocolate really complements the candy better.
• Creamy peanut butter: Stick with a commercial brand like Jif or Skippy for this recipe. The natural kinds with oil separation can affect the texture of your bark.
• Confectioners' sugar: This sweetens the peanut butter layer while also helping it firm up to the perfect consistency. Don't substitute granulated sugar or you'll end up with a grainy texture.
• Butter: Just a bit makes the peanut butter layer extra creamy and helps it set properly in the fridge.
• Reese's Pieces: These little candies add color, crunch, and extra peanut butter flavor. Plus, they make the bark instantly recognizable as a special treat.

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Bark-Making Magic

Melt with care:

When melting chocolate in the microwave, those 20-second intervals are key. Chocolate can go from perfectly melted to scorched in seconds, so be patient and stir thoroughly between each zap.

Spread with precision:

Take your time spreading that first chocolate layer. Getting an even base means your bark will have consistent thickness and break into nice pieces later. I use an offset spatula for the smoothest finish.

Mix until smooth:

When combining the peanut butter, confectioners' sugar, and butter, keep mixing until you have a completely smooth filling. Any lumps now will be obvious in your finished bark.

Chill between layers:

Don't skip those refrigeration steps between layers. The chilling time ensures each layer is properly set before adding the next, preventing them from mixing together.

Press gently:

When adding the Reese's Pieces to the top layer, press them in just enough to make them stick. Press too hard, and they'll sink completely into the chocolate, losing that pretty visual appeal.

Break don't cut:

For that rustic, homemade look, break the bark with your hands rather than cutting it. The irregular pieces look more appealing and authentic than perfect squares.

I first made this bark when my kids were little and constantly begging for those expensive chocolate-peanut butter treats at the checkout counter. This homemade version became our Friday night movie treat - much cheaper than store-bought and way more satisfying to make together. Now that they're teenagers, they still request it when friends come over, and I've caught them sneaking pieces from the container in the fridge more times than I can count.

Serving Ideas

Break this bark into different sizes depending on how you're serving it. Smaller pieces work well on dessert platters alongside other treats, while bigger chunks make an impressive standalone dessert. For a simple but special presentation, stack pieces in a clear glass jar tied with a ribbon. During the holidays, I serve it alongside hot chocolate for the perfect sweet pairing.

Tasty Twists

Try using white chocolate for the top layer for a pretty color contrast. Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top for a sophisticated sweet-salty combination. For extra crunch, mix some rice krispies into the peanut butter layer or sprinkle chopped peanuts along with the Reese's Pieces on top.

Storage Smarts

Store this bark in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to two weeks. If you're stacking pieces, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. For longer storage, you can freeze the bark for up to three months - just thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

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I've made this peanut butter bark so many times I could probably do it blindfolded. There's something so satisfying about the simplicity of it - no complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients, just layer after layer of pure chocolate-peanut butter joy. It's become my signature bring-along dessert because it travels well and disappears fast. The combination of smooth and crunchy textures with that perfect chocolate-peanut butter flavor balance makes it impossible to stop at just one piece.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate works wonderfully and provides a nice contrast to the sweet peanut butter layer.

→ How should I store this bark?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. It can also be frozen for up to three months.

→ Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

Yes, though the peanut butter layer will be less smooth. It adds an extra texture element that many people enjoy.

→ What other candy can I use instead of Reese's Pieces?

Mini peanut butter cups, M&Ms, chopped peanuts, or any other candy that pairs well with chocolate and peanut butter work great.

→ Why did my chocolate layer crack when breaking?

This is normal! For cleaner breaks, let the bark sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes after chilling before breaking into pieces.