Indulge in the simplest, most delicious treat with these easy, no-bake Peanut Butter Bars. Featuring a thick, rich peanut butter base and a silky-smooth chocolate topping, this classic dessert requires just seven ingredients and no oven time, making it perfect for any occasion. Forget complicated recipes; these bars are quick to assemble and yield irresistibly sweet and satisfying results that everyone will love.
Quick Tip
Craving a different kind of peanut butter bar? For a frosted, cake-like experience, explore our famous Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Bars (often called Lunch Lady Bars)! If you’re seeking a healthier twist, try our Peanut Butter Banana Bars, naturally sweetened with ripe bananas and made with blended oats.
Irresistible No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars: A Classic Delight
There’s a reason why homemade peanut butter bars are such a beloved dessert. They capture the heart of nostalgic treats with their perfect balance of sweet and salty, all without the need for an oven. These no-bake peanut butter bars are remarkably simple to create, demanding minimal effort and just a handful of everyday ingredients. The result is a dessert that rivals any candy bar, offering a deeply satisfying taste and texture that will have you coming back for more.
These bars are generously thick, incredibly rich, and taste like an elevated version of your favorite peanut butter cups. When freshly made, they boast a creamy, gooey texture that melts in your mouth, far surpassing the often-stiff consistency of store-bought alternatives. With only seven simple ingredients, these bars prove that the best desserts don’t need to be complicated.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Peanut Butter Bars Recipe
- **Effortlessly Simple:** No baking required means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your delicious creation.
- **Crowd-Pleasing Flavor:** The classic combination of peanut butter and chocolate is universally loved, making these bars a hit at any gathering or family meal.
- **Rich & Indulgent:** A thick, sweet peanut butter base perfectly complemented by a smooth, decadent chocolate topping offers a truly satisfying dessert experience.
- **Quick to Prepare:** With just a few steps, you can have these bars chilling in the refrigerator in no time.
- **Better Than Store-Bought:** Forget Reese’s! These homemade bars offer a fresher, creamier, and more flavorful alternative that you can customize to your liking.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars
Crafting these delectable no-bake peanut butter bars begins with selecting the right ingredients. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need, along with tips for achieving the best results and recommended brands:
- Peanut Butter: The star of the show! Any creamy peanut butter will work beautifully. For optimal texture and flavor, we highly recommend a classic creamy variety like Skippy® Creamy Peanut Butter. It’s crucial to avoid natural peanut butter that requires stirring, as its oil separation can lead to overly greasy bars that don’t set properly.
- Graham Crackers: These provide the perfect subtle crunch and a hint of honeyed sweetness to the base. Crushed graham crackers act as a binder and flavor enhancer. Honeymaid® honey-flavored graham crackers are a popular choice for their consistent quality and delicious taste.
- Powdered Sugar: Also known as confectioners’ sugar, this ingredient is essential for achieving the light, smooth texture of the peanut butter base. Granulated or brown sugar will not yield the same results; their coarser texture would make the bars grainy, and they lack the delicate mouthfeel that powdered sugar provides.
- Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to precisely control the overall saltiness of your bars. This is particularly important when balancing the sweetness of the other ingredients and the natural saltiness of peanut butter.
- Salt: Even with unsalted butter, a small amount of fine salt is crucial. It acts as a flavor enhancer, cutting through the sweetness and bringing out the rich, nutty notes of the peanut butter and chocolate, creating a more balanced and complex taste profile.
- Chocolate Chips: The choice of chocolate can significantly alter the final flavor. For a taste reminiscent of classic Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, opt for milk chocolate chips. If you prefer a less sweet, more intense chocolate flavor, semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips are excellent choices. Feel free to mix and match to find your perfect balance—a 50/50 blend of milk and semi-sweet is often a favorite. High-quality chocolate makes a noticeable difference here; brands like Ghirardelli® and Guittard® are recommended for their superior flavor and smooth melt.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla extract adds a lovely depth and aromatic finish to the peanut butter layer. While optional, it elevates the overall flavor profile, adding a warm, subtle complexity that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Quick Tip
Don’t let those leftover graham crackers go to waste! They’re fantastic for making Graham Cracker Cookies or crafting a delicious homemade Graham Cracker Pie Crust for your next dessert creation.
How to Make Delicious No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars
Making these peanut butter bars is a straightforward process, but a few key steps and tips will ensure a perfect batch every single time. Follow these instructions for a rich, creamy, and undeniably satisfying dessert:
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chilling Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Servings: 16 bars (these are rich, so a small piece goes a long way!)
Equipment Needed
- 8 x 8-inch baking pan or 9 x 9-inch pan
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil
- Blender or food processor (or a large plastic bag and a rolling pin)
- Hand mixer or a sturdy wooden spoon
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Large mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 8 full graham cracker sheets (yields approximately 1 cup of crumbs)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup + 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter (see Note 1 below for peanut butter type)
- 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate, see Note 2 below for chocolate choice)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving an overhang on the sides. This overhang will serve as handles, making it much easier to lift the bars out of the pan once they’re set. Set the prepared pan aside.
- Melt and Cool Butter: Melt the unsalted butter in a microwave-safe bowl. It’s crucial to let the melted butter cool completely back to room temperature before mixing it with other ingredients. Hot butter will melt the powdered sugar and graham cracker crumbs, resulting in a greasy, undesirable texture.
- Crush Graham Crackers: Place the graham cracker sheets into a blender or food processor and pulse until they are finely ground into crumbs. Ensure there are no large chunks remaining, as these will affect the smooth texture of the bars. If you don’t have a blender, you can place the crackers in a large gallon-sized plastic bag, seal it, and crush them with a rolling pin, the bottom of a frying pan, or a meat mallet until fine.
- Form the Peanut Butter Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled melted butter, salt, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 1 cup of creamy peanut butter. Using a hand mixer or a sturdy wooden spoon, mix all ingredients together until a thick, uniform dough forms. The mixture should be well combined and hold its shape.
- Press the Base into the Pan: Transfer the peanut butter dough into your prepared pan. Using your hands or the back of a spoon, press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the pan to create a compact base. Place the pan in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the chocolate topping.
- Prepare the Chocolate Topping: In a separate microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and the remaining 2 tablespoons of creamy peanut butter. Microwave the mixture in short 15-second bursts, stirring thoroughly for 10 seconds after each burst. Continue this process until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth, with no lumps remaining. The added peanut butter helps create a smoother, more spreadable topping.
- Add the Topping and Chill: Pour the melted chocolate mixture evenly over the chilled peanut butter base in the pan. Gently tap the pan on your counter a few times to help the chocolate spread into a smooth, even layer across the entire surface. Return the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the bars are completely firm.
- Slice and Serve: Once the bars are firm, lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. For perfectly clean slices, run a sharp knife under hot water for a few seconds, wipe it dry, then make a cut. Repeat this process for each slice. Allow the bars to sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before cutting and serving for the best texture.
Quick Tip
A powerful blender or food processor makes quick work of crushing graham crackers into fine crumbs. However, if you don’t have one, a sturdy gallon-sized plastic bag and the bottom of a heavy frying pan, a meat mallet, or a rolling pin will achieve the same perfectly crumbly results.
Tips for Perfect No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars Every Time
Achieving bakery-quality no-bake peanut butter bars is simple with these expert tips:
- Cool the Melted Butter: This is a non-negotiable step. If your butter is hot, it will melt the powdered sugar and make your base greasy and hard to handle. Room temperature melted butter ensures a perfectly cohesive and smooth peanut butter layer.
- Ensure Finely Crushed Graham Crackers: The texture of your graham cracker crumbs directly impacts the final bars. Blend or crush them until they are very fine, without any large pieces. This guarantees a smooth, uniform base that won’t feel gritty.
- Invest in Quality Chocolate: The flavor of your chocolate topping makes a significant difference. High-quality chocolate chips (like Ghirardelli® or Guittard®) melt smoother and taste richer, elevating the overall indulgence of these bars.
- Choose the Right Pan Size: For thicker, more substantial bars like those pictured, an 8×8-inch pan is ideal. If you prefer slightly thinner bars, a 9×9-inch pan will work. Both sizes yield delicious results, so choose based on your preference.
- Always Line Your Pan: Don’t skip lining your pan with parchment paper or foil, leaving an overhang. This simple step is a game-changer for easy removal. Once the bars are firm, you can simply lift them out of the pan and cut them on a flat surface, making for much cleaner slices than trying to cut directly in the pan.
- Achieve Picture-Perfect Slices: For clean, professional-looking cuts, use a sharp knife that has been run under hot water and then immediately wiped dry before each slice. The warm blade glides through the chocolate and peanut butter layers without dragging or cracking, giving you beautiful, defined bars.
- Allow Adequate Chilling Time: Patience is key! Giving the bars enough time to chill in the refrigerator (at least 1 to 1.5 hours) ensures they set completely, making them firm, easy to cut, and ready to enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars
What kind of peanut butter works best for these bars?
Creamy, conventional peanut butter (like Skippy® or Jif®) is highly recommended. Natural peanut butter that separates oil can make the bars too greasy and prevent them from setting properly. The consistent texture of creamy peanut butter is key for a smooth base.
Can I use other types of crackers instead of graham crackers?
While graham crackers provide a classic flavor, you could experiment with other crumb bases like digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers for a slightly different taste profile. Ensure they are finely crushed for the best texture.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the chocolate topping?
Absolutely! Use milk chocolate for a sweeter, classic Reese’s-like flavor. For a less sweet, more intense chocolate experience, opt for semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips. A combination of half milk and half semi-sweet chocolate is also a popular choice to strike a balance.
How can I prevent my bars from being greasy?
The most important step to avoid greasy bars is to ensure your melted butter has cooled completely to room temperature before mixing it with the other base ingredients. Hot butter will melt the sugar, leading to a greasy consistency.
Can I add mix-ins to the peanut butter base or chocolate topping?
Yes, feel free to customize! Mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts (like peanuts or walnuts), or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the chocolate layer can add extra flavor and texture. Sprinkles can also be added for a festive touch.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips for Peanut Butter Bars
These delightful no-bake peanut butter bars are excellent for preparing in advance and storing, ensuring you always have a sweet treat ready.
- Making Ahead: These bars are ideal for meal prepping or preparing for parties. Simply follow the recipe instructions, allow them to chill and firm up, then cover them tightly and refrigerate overnight. Their flavor and texture often improve after a good chill.
- Refrigeration: When stored correctly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, these bars will maintain their freshness and delicious taste for 5-7 days. If they’ve been chilled for an extended period, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before cutting and serving for optimal texture.
- Freezing: Peanut butter bars freeze exceptionally well! To freeze, wrap each individual bar tightly in plastic wrap, then place all wrapped bars into a larger freezer-safe bag or an airtight container. They will remain fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply transfer them to the refrigerator overnight.
More Delightful Peanut Butter Dessert Recipes
If you’re a fan of the irresistible combination of peanut butter and chocolate, you’ll love exploring these other fantastic recipes:
- Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie with an Oreo cookie crust for an ultimate decadent dessert.
- Buttercrunch Candy, a crunchy peanut candy topped with rich chocolate.
- Tiger Butter Fudge, a visually stunning swirl of peanut butter and white chocolate fudge.
- Peanut Butter Cup Brownies, packed with chopped Reese’s cups for an extra peanut butter punch.
- Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats, a classic treat elevated with a chocolate peanut butter topping.
No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars
Chelsea Lords
20 minutes
1 hour
1 hour 20 minutes
16 bars (these are rich—a little goes a long way!)
Video Overview
A short video demonstrating the ease of making these delicious No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars, from preparing the base to the final chocolate topping.
Equipment
- 8 x 8-inch baking pan or 9 x 9-inch
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil
- Blender or food processor
- Hand mixer or a wooden spoon
Ingredients
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter melted and cooled
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 8 full graham cracker sheets (about 1 cup of crumbs)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter plus 2 tablespoons (see Note 1)
- 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate, see Note 2)
Instructions
- Line an 8×8-inch pan (for thicker bars) or 9×9-inch pan (for thinner bars) with parchment paper or foil, leaving an overhang for easy removal. Set aside. Melt butter in the microwave, then set it aside to cool completely to room temperature. (Hot butter will melt the sugar and crushed graham crackers, causing greasy bars.) Crumble graham crackers into a blender or food processor and blend until fine crumbs are formed. Alternatively, place crackers in a gallon plastic bag, seal out air, and crush thoroughly with a frying pan, rolling pin, or meat mallet (see Note 3).
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled melted butter, salt, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 1 cup of creamy peanut butter. Use a hand mixer or a sturdy wooden spoon to mix until you have a thick, uniform dough. Press this dough into an even layer in the base of the prepared pan. Place the pan in the fridge while you prepare the topping.
- Meanwhile, add the chocolate chips and the remaining 2 tablespoons of peanut butter to a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in bursts of 15 seconds, stirring well for 10 seconds between each burst, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. Pour the melted chocolate mixture evenly over the peanut butter layer and gently tap the pan on the table a few times to ensure an even coating.
- Chill the bars in the fridge until they are firm, which typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. Before cutting, allow the bars to sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes. For clean, neat slices, run a sharp knife under hot water, wipe it dry, then make a slice, repeating this process for each cut.
Recipe Notes
Note 2: For a sweeter dessert reminiscent of Reese’s, use milk chocolate chips. For a less sweet treat with a deeper chocolate flavor, opt for semi-sweet or dark chocolate. You can also mix them—I often use a 50/50 blend of milk and semi-sweet chocolate, or simply plain milk chocolate. Remember, the quality of your chocolate will directly impact the overall flavor of these bars, so choose a good brand!
Note 3: To ensure a smooth base texture and prevent large, unappetizing chunks in your bars, make sure the graham crackers are blended or crushed into very fine crumbs. If you find any larger pieces after blending, put them back in the blender and process again until uniformly fine.
Storage: Covered tightly, leftover bars will keep well in the refrigerator for 5–7 days. To freeze for longer storage, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen bars overnight in the fridge before serving.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per Serving)
Serving: 1 bar
Calories: 305 kcal
Carbohydrates: 33.4g
Protein: 5.1g
Fat: 18.5g
Cholesterol: 15.3mg
Sodium: 116.2mg
Fiber: 2.2g
Sugar: 26.1g
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation. Actual values may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.
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