Effortless Indulgence: No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars.
When was the only thing hotter than the pavement the oven? My grandma used to whip up these no bake Chocolate Peanut Butter bars, and they were pure magic. What is the kind of dessert that just screams comfort food? Think of it like a peanut butter cup but in bar form and about a million times easier to make. What are some of the best no-bake desserts? Honestly, compared to even making a simple batch of cookies, these are a total breeze. They’re so good, it’s almost criminal how little effort they take!
What is a no bake chocolate peanut butter bar?
These bars are essentially layers of pure, unadulterated bliss. Think of it as a symphony of textures and flavors. a rich, buttery graham cracker crust, a Creamy Peanut Butter filling, and a smooth, decadent chocolate topping. It’s a lazy baker’s dream come true! The graham cracker crust gives it a nice, subtle crunch, the peanut butter filling is so rich and satisfying, and that chocolate? Oh, that chocolate just ties everything together perfectly. I think the name says it all. If you don’t bake them, and they are bars with chocolate and peanut butter what’s not to love?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I begin? The flavor is out of this world. The combination of rich chocolate and creamy Peanut Butter is a classic for a reason – it’s simply irresistible. Then there’s the simplicity. What are some of the easiest recipes to make? What I love about pantry staples is how versatile they are. Need a quick dessert for a potluck? These bars are perfect. How do I impress my friends without spending hours in the kitchen? I’ve made similar no-bake treats before, but this chocolate peanut butter version always wins, hands down! My entire family enjoys it, too. This recipe uses simple ingredients with little to no active cooking time which is amazing.
How do I make no-bake chocolate peanut butter bars?
What is a quick overview?
How do you make no-bake chocolate Peanut Butter bars? You’ll start by creating a simple graham cracker crust, then whip up a creamy peanut butter filling, and finally, top it all off with a smooth graham cracker crust. Chocolate layer. What’s the best part? No oven required! Just a little bit of chilling time in the fridge, and you’re good to go. Seriously, it’s so easy, even the kids can help (and they usually do!).
What are the ingredients in food?
For the Crust: What is the meaning of “for the crust”?
* 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs: I prefer using the regular kind, but honey graham crackers work well too. Just make sure they’re finely crushed! 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted: Use good quality butter! It makes a difference in the flavor of the crust. Just a touch of sweetness to complement the graham crackers.What’s the recipe for Peanut Butter filling?
* 1 cup creamy peanut butter: I always use regular peanut butter, not the natural kind, for the best texture. * 1 cup powdered sugar: I always use powdered sugar. This is what gives the filling that smooth, melt-in-your-mouth consistency. * 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened: Make sure it’s properly softened so it blends easily with the other ingredients. Adds a little moisture and helps to bind the filling together.For the Chocolate Topping: For the Chocolate Topping: For the Chocolate Topping:
* 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips: Use your favorite brand of chocolate chips! * 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: This gives the chocolate a nice shine and prevents it from being too hard.
What is the best step-by-step guide for a beginner?
Step 1: Prepare the Crust. Step 2: Prepare the Crust.
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. I always line the dish with parchment paper first for easy removal later – trust me, it’s a lifesaver!
How do you make peanut butter filling?
In a large bowl, beat together the peanut butter, powdered sugar, softened butter, and milk until smooth and creamy. Set aside. I use an electric mixer for this, but you can definitely do it by hand if you’re feeling ambitious!
Step 3: Layer the Filling.
Spread the peanut butter filling evenly over the graham cracker crust. Try to get it as smooth as possible – it just looks prettier that way!
How do you melt chocolate?
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and butter. Set aside. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat!
Step 5: Pour the chocolate into a piping bag.
I like to use a spatula to make sure it’s smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter filling, spreading it evenly.
Step 6: Chill.
Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate is set. This is the hardest part – waiting for them to chill!
Step 7: Cut and Serve.
Once the chocolate is set, lift the bars out of the baking dish using the parchment paper overhang. Cut them into squares and serve!
What should I serve it with?
What should I serve it with?
What are some of the best no-bake bars? What are some of my favorite serving suggestions?
What is a sweet treat? A cold glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream is the perfect complement to the rich chocolate and peanut butter flavors.
For Parties: Cut the bars into smaller squares and arrange them on a platter. Add some fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of elegance.
As a Snack: As a Snack:Can you pack a few bars in your lunchbox for a midday pick-me-up?
Just Because: Why?Honestly, there’s never a bad time to enjoy a bar. I’ve been known to sneak one straight from the fridge at 10 pm. No judgement here!
Growing up, we always had them with a glass of milk after school. Now, I love them with a strong cup of coffee in the afternoon. Is it funny how things just don’t change?
How do I make no-bake chocolate peanut butter bars?
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks for making these bars absolutely perfect. Here are my top tips:
Crust Consistency: Crust Consistency: Crust Consistency: Crust Consistency: Crust Consistency: Make sure the graham cracker crumbs are finely crushed. This will ensure that the crust is nice and compact and doesn’t fall apart.
What is the power of peanut butter? Use regular creamy peanut butter, not the natural kind. Natural peanut butter tends to be too oily and can make the filling too soft.
What is the key to softened butter?Make sure the butter for the filling is properly softened. This will ensure that it blends easily with other ingredients and creates a smooth, creamy texture.
Chocolate: What are some of the best chocolates? Use good quality chocolate chips. It makes a big difference in the flavor of the topping. I prefer semi-sweet, but you can use milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter taste.
What is Melting Chocolate?Be careful not to overheat chocolate when melting it. Microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until it’s just melted. Overheating chocolate can become grainy and unpleasant.
Clean Slices: How do you clean a slice?Use a sharp knife to cut the chocolate into squares. This will help to prevent the chocolate from cracking and create clean, even slices. I usually run my knife under hot water and then dry it off.
Patience is a virtue. Be patient and let the bars chill completely before cutting and serving. This will allow the chocolate to set properly and make them easier to handle.
Variations: Variations: Variations: Variations: Variations: Variations: VariationsI tested this recipe with almond butter instead of peanut butter and it worked pretty well. It gives it a different flavor, obviously, but still tasty!
What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?
What is the best way to store these no bake bars in the refrigerator?
Room Temperature: Room Temperature: Room Temperature:These bars can be left at room temperature for up to 2 hours but are best served chilled. Do you think chocolate will start to soften if it gets too warm?
What is the best way to store a refrigerator?Can you store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week?
How do I use a freezer?For longer storage, you can freeze the bars individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. Can you freeze them for up to 2 months?
What is the Glaze Timing Advice?Don’t bother glazing them if you plan on freezing them for longer than two weeks. The glaze will start to get a weird color and texture so just glaze after you thaw them.
What are the most frequently asked questions on Quora?
Final Thoughts: What are your thoughts?
What is my grandma’s recipe for no-bake chocolate peanut butter bars? What are some easy bars to make? If you’re craving a sweet treat, these bars are sure to be a hit. It’s the kind of dessert that brings back so many memories, and I hope it does the same for you. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my other no bake desserts. What do you think of my new bars? Happy baking (or, in this case, not baking)!
No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars
Ingredients
Crust
- 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 0.5 cup powdered sugar
- 0.5 cup peanut butter
- 0.25 cup melted butter
Filling
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 0.5 cup butter, softened
Topping
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, peanut butter, and melted butter in a bowl. Press into the bottom of a baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, beat together peanut butter, powdered sugar, and softened butter until smooth. Spread over the crust.
- Melt chocolate chips and spread over the peanut butter layer. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into bars.
