Go Back

No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars

These No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars are a quick and delicious dessert, combining a creamy peanut butter base with a silky chocolate topping. Perfect for bake sales or as a snack.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 16 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Base ingredients
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter plus 2 tablespoons for topping
  • 1 cup unsalted butter melted and slightly cooled
  • 2 cups powdered sugar sifted if lumpy
  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs very fine for a smooth base
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 pinch fine salt to balance the sweetness
Topping ingredients
  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1-2 tablespoons milk only if needed for loosening the chocolate

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Line a 9x13 pan with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang on the long sides for easy lifting.
  2. In a large bowl, stir together melted butter, 1 cup peanut butter, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
  3. Add powdered sugar and graham cracker crumbs and mix until it resembles a soft, slightly crumbly dough.
  4. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the lined pan using a flat-bottomed measuring cup.
Topping
  1. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips in 20 to 30-second bursts, stirring in between until almost smooth.
  2. Stir in 2 tablespoons peanut butter until glossy. If too thick, add 1 to 2 teaspoons milk.
  3. Spread the chocolate topping over the base and smooth quickly without disturbing the crust.
Chilling and Slicing
  1. Chill the pan for 1 to 2 hours, or until the chocolate is set.
  2. Lift the bars from the pan using the parchment and cut into squares with a sharp knife warmed under hot water.

Notes

For gluten-free, use gluten-free graham crumbs. For dairy-free, choose a plant-based butter and dairy-free chocolate chips. A pinch of flaky salt on top enhances the flavor. Store in an airtight container for up to a week.