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No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars

These no-bake peanut butter bars come together with a simple mix of creamy peanut butter, crushed graham crackers, and melted butter pressed into a pan, then topped with smooth melted chocolate. The final texture is rich, chewy, and slightly crumbly with a glossy chocolate finish, perfect for a quick sweet fix without turning on the oven.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1 cup peanut butter creamy preferred
  • 1.5 cups powdered sugar
  • 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs store-bought or crushed digestives
  • 0.5 cup chocolate chips semi-sweet preferred

Equipment

  • 8-inch square pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Microwave-safe bowl
  • Spatula
  • Knife or pizza cutter

Method
 

  1. Line the 8-inch pan with parchment paper, letting the edges overhang for easy removal.
  2. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter in short bursts, about 30 seconds each, until fully liquid and fragrant.
  3. Add the peanut butter to the melted butter and stir until smooth and creamy, releasing a rich, nutty aroma.
  4. Stir in the powdered sugar and graham cracker crumbs, mixing until everything is well combined and sticky, with a dough-like texture that feels satisfying to press.
  5. Press the thick mixture evenly into the prepared parchment-lined pan, using the back of a spatula or your fingers to smooth the surface and compact the layer.
  6. Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until the mixture is firm and set.
  7. Meanwhile, melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in short bursts, stirring until smooth and glossy, releasing a sweet chocolate aroma.
  8. Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the chilled peanut butter layer, creating a smooth, shiny top that looks inviting.
  9. Return the pan to the fridge and chill for another 30 minutes until the chocolate layer is firm and glossy.
  10. Use the parchment overhang to lift the set bars out of the pan, then cut into neat squares with a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
  11. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Enjoy the chewy, chocolate-topped bars that burst with flavor and texture!

Notes

Chill the bars thoroughly for clean cuts and optimal firmness. For added flair, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt or chopped nuts on top before the chocolate sets.