Name: Peanut Butter Bars
Prep time: 8 min
Cook time: 2 min
Total time: 2 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled (226g); 1½ cups creamy peanut butter, divided (396g); 1¾ cups powdered sugar (210g); 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (240g); 1½ cups semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips (270g)

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These no-bake Peanut Butter Bars are the ultimate treat for peanut butter lovers. Rich, creamy, and topped with a smooth layer of chocolate, they come together in minutes with just five simple ingredients. Whether you’re making them for a party, a holiday tray, or a quick weeknight dessert, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast.

Peanut Butter Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No baking required: Just mix, layer, and chill.
Ready in minutes: Minimal prep and hands-on time.
Classic flavor combo: Peanut butter and chocolate never go out of style.
Perfect for make-ahead: Stores well in the fridge or freezer.
Crowd-pleaser: Rich and satisfying, these bars are ideal for parties or potlucks.

Ingredients

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

Unsalted butter (melted)
Creamy peanut butter (divided)
Powdered sugar
Graham cracker crumbs
Semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips

Directions

Line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch square baking dish with parchment paper or foil for easy removal.
In a large bowl, mix together the melted butter and 1¼ cups of peanut butter using a handheld mixer or whisk until smooth.
Add powdered sugar and mix until well combined, scraping down the sides as needed.
Fold in graham cracker crumbs with a silicone spatula until fully incorporated.
Transfer the mixture into the prepared dish and press it into an even layer. Place in the fridge to chill.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and the remaining ¼ cup of peanut butter. Microwave in 30- to 40-second intervals, stirring between each, until melted and smooth.
Pour the chocolate mixture over the peanut butter layer and spread evenly.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until fully set.
Once firm, slice into bars and serve.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12
Prep Time: 8 minutes
Cook Time: 2 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes

Variations

Crunchy version: Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
Toppings: Sprinkle chopped peanuts, sea salt flakes, or mini chocolate chips over the chocolate layer before it sets.
Swirl look: Before the chocolate sets, swirl in a little extra peanut butter for a marbled top.
Nut-free: Substitute sunflower seed butter for a school-safe option.
Different base: Swap graham cracker crumbs for crushed pretzels or digestive biscuits.

Storage/Reheating

To store: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
To freeze: Wrap bars individually or store in a freezer-safe container with parchment between layers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: Not necessary—these bars are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I make these without graham cracker crumbs?

Yes, you can substitute crushed digestive biscuits, pretzels, or even vanilla wafer crumbs.

Can I use natural peanut butter?

You can, but make sure it’s well mixed and not too oily or runny, or the bars may not set properly.

What’s the best chocolate to use?

Semi-sweet chocolate chips are classic, but milk chocolate adds extra sweetness, and dark chocolate offers a richer contrast.

How do I cut clean slices?

Use a sharp chef’s knife. For best results, warm the knife under hot water, dry it, then cut. Repeat as needed.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan. You may need a few extra minutes of chilling time.

Are these bars gluten-free?

Use certified gluten-free graham cracker crumbs to make them gluten-free.

Can I add other mix-ins?

Yes! Try adding shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or mini marshmallows to the peanut butter layer.

Do they need to be stored in the fridge?

Yes, chilling helps them stay firm. They can be left at room temperature for short periods but will soften.

Can I make them vegan?

Use vegan butter, dairy-free chocolate chips, and a vegan-friendly peanut butter to make them vegan.

Can kids help make this?

Absolutely! It’s a great no-bake recipe for kids to help measure, mix, and press into the pan.

Conclusion

These Peanut Butter Bars are proof that simple ingredients can make incredibly delicious treats. With their creamy peanut butter base and smooth chocolate topping, they’re a no-fuss dessert that satisfies every time. Whether for holidays, potlucks, or a sweet snack, this recipe is a keeper.