Description
These no-bake chocolate peanut butter bars are a decadent, easy-to-make treat combining a buttery graham cracker crust with creamy peanut butter and a rich chocolate topping. Perfect for quick dessert cravings without the need for an oven.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Layer
- 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) salted butter, melted
- 1 cup (120g) graham cracker crumbs (about 8 full sheet graham crackers)
- 2 cups (240g) confectioners’ sugar
- 1 cup (250g) creamy peanut butter
Topping
- 2 Tablespoons (30g) creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup (180g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8-inch or 9-inch square baking pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper and set it aside to make removal of the bars easier later.
- Make the Base Layer: In a medium bowl, combine the melted salted butter, graham cracker crumbs, and confectioners’ sugar. Stir in 1 cup of creamy peanut butter until fully incorporated, then press this mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan to form the base layer.
- Melt Chocolate Topping: Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of peanut butter with the semi-sweet chocolate chips using the microwave or stovetop method. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Spread the Topping: Evenly spread the melted chocolate and peanut butter mixture over the base layer in the pan, creating a smooth top layer.
- Chill and Set: Refrigerate the bars until completely firm, which will take at least 2 hours. Before serving, allow the bars to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to soften slightly. They can also be set out for a few hours if desired.
- Store Leftovers: Cover any leftover bars tightly and keep refrigerated for up to 1 week to maintain freshness.
Notes
- These bars are made with only five ingredients, making them simple and quick to prepare.
- Press the base layer firmly to ensure the bars hold together well.
- Allow the bars to chill completely for the best texture and ease of cutting.
- Use smooth, creamy peanut butter for the best consistency.
- They can be kept refrigerated for up to one week, or frozen for longer storage.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (approx. 1/24th of recipe)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
