Easiest No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars: Quick & Delicious Treat
Are you tired of turning on your oven, especially when the weather warms up, but still crave an undeniably delicious, utterly satisfying dessert? Look no further, because our Easiest Ever No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars are here to save the day (and your kitchen from extra heat!). Imagine a buttery graham cracker crust, forming the ideal base for a thick, velvety smooth peanut butter filling. This isn’t just a shortcut; it’s a revelation in simplicity, delivering maximum flavor with minimal effort. If you adore creating delightful treats without the fuss of baking, which pairs perfectly with our recipe for easy strawberry crunch bars recipe, then you’re about to find your new go-to.
These aren’t just any No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars; they are the ultimate expression of nostalgic comfort, effortlessly whipped up in mere minutes of active prep time. Forget tedious steps and long cooling times – this recipe is pure instant gratification. A luscious, glossy chocolate topping crowns these irresistible squares, creating that iconic peanut butter and chocolate symphony that everyone adores. They’re perfect for last-minute potlucks, impromptu gatherings, or simply when a serious sweet tooth strikes. And while these deliver pure, smooth indulgence, if you’re ever looking to explore different textures and seasonal delights, there are fantastic resources detailing creations like the best chunky halloween treat bars recipe.
Get ready to impress everyone, and yourself, with a dessert so good, they’ll never guess how truly simple it was to make.
Easiest No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars: Quick & Delicious Treat
Course: DessertCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy16
servings15
minutes300
kcal5
hours20
minutesThese No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars are incredibly easy to make with a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy peanut butter filling, and a rich chocolate topping. A perfect quick dessert!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10-12 full graham crackers)
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
¼ cup granulated sugar
For the Peanut Butter Filling:
1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Topping:
1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
½ cup creamy peanut butter
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Directions
- Prepare the Crust: Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy lifting. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until well mixed. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Set aside.
- Make the Peanut Butter Filling: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter and creamy peanut butter together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until fully incorporated and smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Assemble the Bars: Spread the peanut butter filling evenly over the graham cracker crust in the prepared pan. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to create a smooth layer.
- Prepare the Chocolate Topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each, until smooth and fully melted. Alternatively, melt in a double boiler over simmering water, stirring constantly.
- Finish and Chill: Pour the melted chocolate topping over the peanut butter layer and spread evenly. Refrigerate the bars for at least 1 hour (or until firm) before lifting them out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang.
- Slice and Serve: Once firm, cut into squares using a warm, sharp knife (wipe clean between cuts for perfect slices). Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Notes
- For best results, use creamy, not crunchy, peanut butter for the filling.
If you prefer a less sweet filling, you can reduce the powdered sugar slightly, but note that it helps with the texture.
Vary the chocolate: Feel free to use milk chocolate chips or dark chocolate chips for the topping.
Make it gluten-free: Simply use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs for the crust.
Storage: These bars can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
