Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These No Bake Peanut Butter Bars are the ultimate sweet and salty treat. The combination of peanut butter, graham cracker crumbs, and chocolate creates a delicious dessert that requires no oven time. They’re perfect for when you want something fast, easy, and absolutely delicious. The layers of peanut butter and chocolate melt in your mouth, making every bite irresistible. Whether you’re in the mood for a snack or a dessert, these bars are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1 cup powdered sugar
1 cup peanut butter (smooth or chunky)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 tablespoons peanut butter (for the chocolate topping)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, peanut butter, and melted butter. Stir until well combined and the mixture is smooth.
Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and 2 tablespoons of peanut butter together. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely melted and smooth.
Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter base, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours or until firm.
Once set, cut into squares or bars and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe makes approximately 16 bars.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes

Variations

Add-ins: Add chopped nuts, mini chocolate chips, or even some dried fruit (like raisins or cranberries) to the peanut butter layer for extra texture.
Chocolate: You can use milk chocolate or white chocolate for the topping instead of semi-sweet chocolate.
Vegan: To make these bars vegan, use dairy-free butter and chocolate chips.
Crunchy Base: Swap out some of the graham cracker crumbs for crushed pretzels for a salty crunch.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the peanut butter bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. They should remain firm and delicious when kept cold.
Freezing: These bars freeze well. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, place them in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: These bars don’t need reheating. They are best served cold straight from the fridge.

FAQs

Can I make these bars without graham crackers?

Yes, you can substitute graham cracker crumbs with crushed cookies (like digestive biscuits) or even rice cereal for a crunchier base.

How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking when cutting?

To prevent cracking, let the bars set at room temperature for about 5 minutes before cutting. You can also let the chocolate layer cool slightly before adding it to the bars.

Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, but keep in mind that natural peanut butter can be a bit runnier and may affect the consistency of the bars. You may need to adjust the amount of powdered sugar to get the right texture.

Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?

Yes, almond butter works as a great alternative if you want a different flavor. Just ensure it’s smooth and creamy for the best texture.

How long do the bars need to chill?

Let the bars chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set properly. For quicker chilling, you can place them in the freezer for 30-45 minutes.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or any gluten-free biscuit or cookie crumbs to make the recipe gluten-free.

How can I make these bars sweeter?

If you prefer a sweeter bar, you can increase the amount of powdered sugar in the peanut butter mixture or use a sweeter type of chocolate for the topping.

How do I know when the bars are ready?

The bars are ready when the chocolate topping has hardened and the peanut butter layer is firm to the touch. Let them chill for at least 2 hours to ensure they’re set.

Can I add a drizzle of caramel or extra toppings?

Absolutely! A drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkling of sea salt would complement the peanut butter and chocolate perfectly. Feel free to get creative with your toppings.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe and use a larger baking dish, such as a 9×13-inch pan, to make more bars.

Conclusion

These No Bake Peanut Butter Bars are the ultimate easy-to-make treat that’s rich, creamy, and oh-so-delicious. With just a few simple ingredients and no baking required, they come together in a snap and are perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings. Whether you’re making them for a party, a quick snack, or just to enjoy with your family, these bars are guaranteed to be a hit!