These No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars are a quick and easy dessert featuring a rich, creamy peanut butter base topped with a smooth layer of melted chocolate. Made with just five ingredients, they require no baking—simply mix, layer, and chill. The perfect way to satisfy sweet cravings with hardly any work! 🍫🥜
Ingredients
-
1 cup (240g) peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
-
1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
-
1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
-
1 1/2 cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs
-
1 cup (175g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
-
Mix the base – In a bowl, combine peanut butter, melted butter, powdered sugar, and graham cracker crumbs. Stir until smooth.
-
Press into pan – Use parchment paper to line an 8×8-inch baking dish. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom.
-
Melt the chocolate – In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring each time until smooth.
-
Top the bars – Pour melted chocolate over the peanut butter base and spread evenly.
-
Chill – Let set in the fridge for at least 1 hour until firm.
-
Cut and serve – When fully set, cut into squares and enjoy!
Additional Tips
✔ Use natural peanut butter for a slightly less sweet version.
✔ Add a pinch of salt for extra flavor.
✔ If you like crunch, mix in chopped peanuts or use chunky peanut butter.
✔ Refrigerate for up to 7 days, or freeze for extended storage.
Q&A About No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars
Q: Can crunchy peanut butter be substituted for creamy?
A: Yes! Crunchy peanut butter adds a nice texture to the bars. Just make sure it mixes well with the other ingredients.
Q: What’s a good substitute for graham cracker crumbs?
A: You can substitute crushed digestive biscuits, crushed pretzels (for a salty twist), or even crushed vanilla wafers.
Q: Can I melt the chocolate on the stove instead of the microwave?
A: Absolutely. Melt the chocolate using a double boiler, or place a heatproof bowl over a pot of gently simmering water to prevent burning.
Q: How do I store these bars?
A: Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or freeze them for up to 2 months.
Q: Can I make them dairy-free?
A: Yes! Use dairy-free butter and dairy-free chocolate chips. Make sure your peanut butter is dairy-free too (most are).
Q: The chocolate layer cracked when I cut the bars. How can I prevent this?
A: Let the bars sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry.
Why You Should Make No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars
✅ Quick & Easy – With just five ingredients and no baking required, this dessert is perfect for beginners or busy days.
✅ Minimal Cleanup – One bowl and a baking dish are all you need—less mess, more deliciousness.
✅ Crowd-Pleaser – The classic combo of chocolate and peanut butter is always a hit with kids and adults alike.
✅ Make-Ahead Friendly – These bars can be made in advance and stored in the fridge or freezer, making them great for parties or meal prep.
✅ Customizable – Add your own twist with chopped nuts, sea salt, or a swirl of caramel.
It’s a fast, fuss-free way to enjoy a rich and satisfying treat anytime! 🍫🥜
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
-
Calories: ~290
-
Total Fat: 19g
-
Saturated Fat: 7g
-
-
Cholesterol: 10mg
-
Sodium: 120mg
-
Total Carbohydrates: 27g
-
Sugars: 18g
-
Fiber: 2g
-
-
Protein: 5g
Note:
These values can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used (e.g., natural vs. regular peanut butter, type of chocolate chips). For a lighter version, you can try using reduced-fat peanut butter or sugar-free chocolate.
Happy Cooking
Diana
