These Peanut Butter Bars are a dreamy blend of creamy, nutty richness and a satisfyingly chewy texture that melts in your mouth. With just 30 minutes of prep, you’ll create a treat that’s perfect for satisfying sweet cravings or impressing guests. The combination of smooth peanut butter and a hint of sweetness is irresistible, while the chilling time ensures they set into perfectly firm, sliceable bars.
After 8 hours in the fridge, these bars transform into a decadent dessert that’s both indulgent and comforting. The velvety peanut butter layer pairs beautifully with a subtle crunch, making every bite a delightful experience. Whether you’re packing them for a snack or serving them at a gathering, these bars are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
What You’ll Need for Peanut Butter Bars?
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs (from about 8 full graham cracker sheets)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (sift if lumpy)
- ½ cup salted butter (1 stick, melted, plus extra for greasing the pan)
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (plus 2 tablespoons for the chocolate layer)
- 1 cup chocolate chips (milk or dark chocolate, depending on preference)
How to Make Peanut Butter Bars?
- Prepare the pan: Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with butter and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix the base: In a large bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and powdered sugar. Add the melted butter and 1 cup of peanut butter. Stir until well combined.
- Press the mixture: Use your hands to evenly press the peanut butter mixture into the prepared pan, ensuring it’s compact and level.
- Melt the chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and the remaining 2 tablespoons of peanut butter. Microwave on high in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted.
- Add the chocolate layer: Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the peanut butter layer and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Chill: Refrigerate the bars overnight, or until the chocolate is firm and the peanut butter layer is fully set. (The chocolate will set faster, but the peanut butter layer needs the full chill time.)
- Slice and serve: Once fully set, cut into bars and enjoy!
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store your Peanut Butter Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Let them thaw in the fridge before serving. If the chocolate layer softens, a quick 10-minute chill will firm it back up.
Recipe Variations to Try
Switch things up by using dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor or white chocolate for a sweeter twist. Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the chocolate layer for a salty-sweet contrast. For a nut-free version, swap peanut butter with sunflower seed butter and use gluten-free graham crackers.
Time-Saving Hacks
If you’re short on time, skip the overnight chill and pop the bars in the freezer for 2-3 hours instead. To speed up prep, use pre-crushed graham cracker crumbs and melt the chocolate mixture in a double boiler for quicker, smoother results.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these bars chilled for the best texture. Pair them with a glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat. For a party, cut them into bite-sized pieces and arrange on a platter for easy sharing.
Equipment Guidance
A 8×8-inch baking dish is perfect for this recipe, and lining it with parchment paper ensures easy removal. Use a microwave-safe bowl for melting the chocolate, or a double boiler if you prefer stovetop melting. A sturdy spatula or your hands work great for pressing the peanut butter layer evenly.
Peanut Butter Bars
Ingredients
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs 6 ounces, from about 8 full graham cracker sheets
- 1 cup powdered sugar sifted if lumpy
- ½ cup salted butter 1 stick, melted, plus more for the pan
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter plus 2 tablespoons for the chocolate layer
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish and line it with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, stir together the graham cracker crumbs and powdered sugar. Add the melted butter and 1 cup peanut butter and mix until well combined.
- Use your hands to evenly press the peanut butter mixture into the prepared pan.
- In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and the remaining 2 tablespoons peanut butter. Microwave on high, stirring every 20 seconds, until the mixture is smooth. Evenly spread over the peanut butter layer.
- Refrigerate the bars overnight, or until the chocolate is firm and the peanut butter layer is fully set. The chocolate will set up sooner, but the peanut butter layer requires a full overnight chill. Slice and serve.