| Prep Time: 15 minutes | Chill Time: 1 hour | Yield: 16 bars |
If you are a fan of the classic combination of chocolate and peanut butter (and really, who isn’t?), this recipe is about to become your new obsession. These No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars deliver that signature salty-sweet flavor profile of a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup, but in a sliceable, shareable bar form that is incredibly easy to make at home.
The best part? You don’t even need to turn on the oven. With just 5 simple ingredients—graham crackers, butter, peanut butter, powdered sugar, and chocolate chips—you can whip up a batch of these decadent bars in about 15 minutes. They are the perfect easy no-bake dessert for potlucks, holidays, or just satisfying a sudden sweet tooth without the hassle of baking.
Why You’ll Love This No-Bake Dessert
- Only 5 Ingredients: You likely have everything you need in your pantry right now.
- Zero Baking: Keeps the kitchen cool and saves time.
- Crowd Pleaser: They taste indistinguishable from store-bought candy cups, making them a hit with kids and adults.
- Adjustable Size: Cut them into large squares for dessert or small bites for a candy platter.
What It Tastes Like
The bottom layer is thick, slightly gritty (in a good way!), and dense with peanut butter flavor, mimicking the filling of a peanut butter cup but with a bit more crunch from the graham crackers. The top layer is a smooth, silky sheet of semi-sweet chocolate that snaps when you bite into it. It’s rich, creamy, and indulgent.
Ingredients & Quantities
This recipe fits perfectly in an 8×8 or 9×9 inch square baking pan.
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) Unsalted Butter, melted
- 1 cup + 2 Tablespoons Creamy Peanut Butter (divided use)
- 1 cup Graham Cracker Crumbs (about 9 full sheets crushed)
- 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Confectioners’ sugar)
- 1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Pan: Line an 8×8 or 9×9 inch square baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving an overhang on the sides (this creates a “sling” to easily lift the bars out later).
- Make the Base: In a medium bowl, combine the 1 cup graham cracker crumbs, 1 cup powdered sugar, and 1/2 cup melted butter. Stir until mixed. Add 1 cup of the creamy peanut butter (reserve the remaining 2 tablespoons for the topping). Stir well until the mixture resembles a thick, slightly crumbly dough.
- Press the Base: Pour the peanut butter mixture into the prepared pan. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a measuring cup to press it down firmly and evenly into a compact layer. Smooth the top as much as possible.
- Melt the Topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips and the remaining 2 tablespoons peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely melted and glossy. Why add peanut butter to the chocolate? It prevents the chocolate from freezing too hard, making it easier to slice without cracking.
- Spread: Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the peanut butter base. Use a spatula to spread it to the edges in an even layer.
- Chill: Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until the chocolate topping is completely set.
- Slice and Serve: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire block out of the pan. Place on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to cut into 16 squares. Pro Tip: Run your knife under hot water and wipe it dry before slicing for perfectly clean cuts.
Storage & Freezing
- Fridge: These bars soften quickly at room temperature due to the butter content. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Serve chilled or let sit for 5 minutes before eating.
- Freezing: These freeze perfectly! Store in a freezer-safe container with wax paper between layers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge or eat them frozen for a cold treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use crunchy peanut butter? Yes! If you prefer texture in your bars, crunchy peanut butter works well in the base layer. However, stick to creamy peanut butter for the chocolate topping to ensure a smooth finish.
Can I use natural peanut butter? I do not recommend natural peanut butter (the kind that separates) for this recipe. It can make the base too oily and prevent it from setting properly. Standard commercial peanut butter (like Jif or Skippy) works best.
How do I crush graham crackers without a food processor? Place the crackers in a large zip-top bag, seal it (removing the air), and crush them with a rolling pin or a heavy pot until they are fine crumbs.
Conclusion
These No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars are proof that you don’t need fancy techniques to make a bakery-quality treat. With just five ingredients and a little patience while they chill, you can enjoy homemade candy bars any time you want!
