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No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars

These no-bake peanut butter bars are a quick, satisfying treat made by melting butter and peanut butter together, then mixing in graham cracker crumbs and chocolate. Once chilled, they develop a firm, chewy texture with a glossy chocolate topping, perfect for a simple homemade dessert without any oven time.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup butter unsalted or salted
  • 1 cup peanut butter creamy preferred
  • 1/2 cup sugar granulated or substitute honey/maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs or crushed digestive biscuits
  • 1 cup chocolate chips semi-sweet or dark

Equipment

  • 8-inch square pan
  • Microwave or double boiler
  • Spatula
  • Parchment paper

Method
 

  1. Line the 8-inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
  2. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and peanut butter together for about 30 seconds. Stir until the mixture is smooth, glossy, and fragrant with a nutty aroma.
  3. Add the sugar and vanilla extract to the melted mixture. Stir well until the sugar dissolves and the mixture turns creamy and slightly thickened.
  4. Stir in the graham cracker crumbs until evenly coated; the mixture will become thick and sticky.
  5. Press the peanut butter mixture evenly into the prepared pan, using the back of a spatula or your fingers to create a smooth, compact surface.
  6. Chop the chocolate chips finely to ensure smooth melting and a glossy finish.
  7. In a microwave or double boiler, melt the chocolate chips until smooth and shiny, about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
  8. Pour the melted chocolate over the pressed peanut butter layer, spreading it out evenly with a spatula for a glossy, smooth top.
  9. Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours until the chocolate is firm and the bars are set.
  10. Once chilled and firm, use the parchment overhang to lift the bars from the pan. Cut into squares and enjoy your homemade no-bake peanut butter bars!