Peanut Butter Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Peanut butter bars are quick to make, require no baking, and come together with just a handful of pantry staples. The combination of sweet and salty peanut butter with smooth chocolate makes them irresistible. They’re freezer-friendly, customizable, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser—whether you’re serving kids, guests, or keeping them all for yourself.

Ingredients

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

• Creamy peanut butter
• Unsalted butter (melted)
• Powdered sugar
• Graham cracker crumbs (or quick oats for a softer texture)
• Vanilla extract
• Semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
• Optional: pinch of salt, crushed peanuts, or flaky sea salt for garnish

Directions

1. In a large bowl, mix together the melted butter, peanut butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
2. Stir in the powdered sugar and graham cracker crumbs until fully combined and a thick dough forms.
3. Press the mixture evenly into a greased or parchment-lined 9×13-inch pan. Use the back of a spoon or a spatula to smooth it out.
4. Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second increments or using a double boiler, stirring until smooth.
5. Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter base and spread evenly.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until set.
7. Once firm, slice into bars and serve. Store chilled for best texture.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 24 bars.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 2 hours
Total time: about 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Crunchy peanut butter: Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
• Oat base: Substitute graham cracker crumbs with quick oats for a softer, chewy base.
• White chocolate topping: Use white chocolate instead of milk or dark chocolate for a twist.
• Nut-free version: Use sunflower seed butter or almond butter instead of peanut butter.
• Layered look: Add a second layer of peanut butter over the chocolate once set for a double-decker bar.

Storage/Reheating

Store peanut butter bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
For longer storage, freeze in a single layer or with parchment between bars for up to 2 months.
These bars are best enjoyed chilled. No reheating necessary.

FAQs

Can I make these bars without graham crackers?

Yes, use quick oats or crushed digestive biscuits as a substitute.

Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, but make sure it’s well stirred and not too oily, or the bars may not set as firmly.

How do I melt the chocolate without burning it?

Use a microwave in short intervals or a double boiler for gentle melting. Stir frequently.

Can I make these bars dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free butter and chocolate to keep the recipe dairy-free.

Can I use chunky peanut butter?

Absolutely. Chunky peanut butter adds a nice crunch and texture to the bars.

What if I don’t have powdered sugar?

You can make your own by blending granulated sugar into a fine powder or use a sugar alternative that measures 1:1.

Can I add a layer of caramel?

Yes, a thin layer of caramel between the peanut butter and chocolate adds an extra indulgent touch.

Do these bars hold up well at room temperature?

They’ll soften at room temperature. For best results, serve chilled or keep in a cool environment.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double all ingredients and use a larger sheet pan or two 9×13 pans.

How thick should the bars be?

The bars are typically about 1 inch thick, but you can adjust thickness by using a smaller or larger pan.

Conclusion

Peanut butter bars are the ultimate no-bake dessert: easy to make, rich in flavor, and endlessly satisfying. With a perfect balance of creamy peanut butter and smooth chocolate, these bars are a go-to for busy days, potlucks, or anytime you want a delicious treat without turning on the oven. Make a batch today and enjoy a bite of classic, comforting sweetness.

Peanut Butter Bars

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Peanut butter bars are a no-bake dessert with a creamy peanut butter and graham cracker base topped with smooth melted chocolate. They’re rich, chewy, and taste just like a peanut butter cup in bar form.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 24 bars
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or quick oats)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt (optional)
• 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
• Optional garnish: crushed peanuts, flaky sea salt

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix melted butter, peanut butter, vanilla extract, and salt (if using) until smooth.
2. Stir in powdered sugar and graham cracker crumbs until a thick, even dough forms.
3. Press mixture into a greased or parchment-lined 9×13-inch pan and smooth the top.
4. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave (30-second intervals) or using a double boiler until smooth.
5. Pour melted chocolate over the peanut butter base and spread evenly with a spatula.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
7. Once set, slice into bars and serve chilled. Store leftovers in the fridge or freezer.

Notes

• Use natural peanut butter only if well-stirred and not too oily to ensure bars set properly.
• Quick oats can replace graham cracker crumbs for a softer, chewier base.
• Top with crushed peanuts or sea salt for added texture and contrast.
• Bars soften at room temperature—best served chilled.
• For a nut-free version, use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 130mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 20mg