Ingredients
For the Peanut Butter Layer
- 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups (500g) creamy peanut butter
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 3½ cups (420g) powdered sugar
- 1½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs
For the Chocolate Topping
- 2 cups (340g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup (125g) creamy peanut butter
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped peanuts
- Flaky sea salt
- Mini chocolate chips
- Peanut butter drizzle
- Chocolate curls
Why You’ll Love These Bars
- No baking required
- Tastes like a giant peanut butter cup
- Simple pantry ingredients
- Perfect make-ahead dessert
- Great for parties and holidays
- Easy to customize
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Microwave-safe bowl or double boiler
- Parchment paper
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal.
Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Base
In a large mixing bowl combine:
- Melted butter
- Peanut butter
- Vanilla extract
Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add:
- Powdered sugar
- Graham cracker crumbs
Mix until fully combined.
The mixture should be thick and hold together when pressed.
Step 3: Press Into the Pan
Transfer the peanut butter mixture to the prepared pan.
Using a spatula or the back of a measuring cup, press firmly into an even layer.
Smooth the surface.
Place in the refrigerator while preparing the chocolate topping.
Step 4: Make the Chocolate Layer
In a microwave-safe bowl combine:
- Chocolate chips
- Peanut butter
Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until smooth and fully melted.
Alternatively, melt over a double boiler.
Step 5: Add the Chocolate Topping
Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the peanut butter layer.
Spread evenly with an offset spatula.
Tap the pan gently on the counter to level the chocolate.
Step 6: Garnish
While the chocolate is still soft, sprinkle with:
- Chopped peanuts
- Flaky sea salt
- Mini chocolate chips
if desired.
Step 7: Chill
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully set.
For faster results, freeze for about 45 minutes.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
Lift the bars from the pan using the parchment paper.
Allow to sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
Cut into squares or rectangles with a sharp knife.
Flavor Variations
Crunchy Peanut Butter Bars
Use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy.
Dark Chocolate Version
Replace semi-sweet chocolate with dark chocolate.
Peanut Butter Pretzel Bars
Mix:
- 1 cup crushed pretzels
into the peanut butter layer.
Cookies and Cream Bars
Add:
- 1 cup crushed chocolate sandwich cookies
to the filling.
Salted Peanut Butter Cup Bars
Finish with a generous sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
Tips for Success
Use Commercial Peanut Butter
Brands like smooth shelf-stable peanut butter create the most consistent texture.
Press Firmly
A tightly packed base helps the bars hold together when sliced.
Don’t Overheat the Chocolate
Heat gently to maintain a smooth, glossy topping.
Chill Thoroughly
The bars slice much more cleanly once fully chilled.
Storage
Refrigerator
Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Freezer
Freeze for up to 3 months.
Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These bars pair perfectly with:
- Cold milk
- Coffee
- Hot chocolate
- Vanilla ice cream
- Fresh strawberries
Nutrition (Per Bar)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 22g
