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No-bake chocolate peanut butter bars cut into squares

Easy No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars

Rich and easy no-bake chocolate peanut butter bars made with a creamy peanut butter base, graham cracker crumbs, and a smooth chocolate topping. A simple make-ahead dessert or snack.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 16 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract optional
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 2 tablespoons peanut butter for chocolate topping

Equipment

  • 1 mixing bowl
  • 1 microwave-safe bowl
  • 1 spatula
  • 1 8-inch square pan
  • 1 parchment paper

Method
 

  1. Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a mixing bowl, stir together the melted butter, peanut butter, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, vanilla extract if using, and salt.
  3. Mix until the peanut butter layer is thick and well combined.
  4. Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan in an even layer.
  5. Add the chocolate chips and 2 tablespoons peanut butter to a microwave-safe bowl.
  6. Microwave in short intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and melted.
  7. Spread the melted chocolate mixture evenly over the peanut butter layer.
  8. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
  9. Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper.
  10. Slice into squares.
  11. Serve chilled.

Notes

Use shelf-stable creamy peanut butter for the most reliable texture. Chill the bars fully before slicing. If the chocolate layer is too firm, let the bars sit at room temperature for a few minutes before cutting.