John Kanell of Preppy Kitchen shares a joyful, no-fuss treat that proves simple desserts can be showstoppers. This easy peanut butter bars recipe blends creamy peanut butter, crunchy graham crumbs, and a glossy chocolate top into a no-bake delight that’s ideal for warm days and last-minute gatherings. Whether readers are exploring cooking, recipes, bon apetit ideas for dessert or just craving a nostalgic peanut butter-chocolate combo, this guide breaks the process down into approachable steps, smart swaps, and tasty variations.
Why this recipe works
The magic comes from contrasting textures: a silky chocolate layer melts on the tongue while the filling offers creamy peanut butter with the pleasant crunch of graham crumbs. The base is sturdy enough to slice cleanly yet tender enough to feel indulgent—think peanut butter cup vibes, but bigger and better.
Key takeaways
- Hands-on time: about 10 minutes.
- No oven required—perfect for warm weather.
- Five core ingredients with plenty of options for mix-ins and swaps.
- Storage: keep refrigerated for up to a week or freeze for a month or two.
Ingredients (for an 8x8 or 9x9 pan)
- 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/4 cups (330 g) creamy peanut butter (see notes on natural vs processed)
- 1 3/4 cups (210 g) powdered (confectioners’) sugar
- 2 cups (240 g) graham cracker crumbs (or substitute crisp cookies)
- 1 1/2 cups (270 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup (66 g) peanut butter (for the chocolate topping)
Readers focused on cooking, recipes, bon apetit will appreciate the simple swaps: shortbread, biscoff, or any crisp cookie can replace graham crumbs; natural peanut butter works, but may need a touch more sugar and salt.
Step-by-step method
1. Make the peanut butter base
- In a large bowl, combine melted butter and 1 1/4 cups peanut butter. Beat on medium with a handheld mixer until fluffy and homogenous.
- Beat in the powdered sugar to add sweetness and structure—mix until smooth and free of lumps.
- Fold in the graham cracker crumbs until evenly distributed. For extra crunch, use coarsely crushed crackers or add chopped honey-roasted peanuts, chocolate chips, or toffee bits.
- Line an 8x8 or 9x9 pan with parchment or foil (for easy removal). Press the peanut butter mixture into an even layer in the pan and chill while preparing the topping.
2. Prepare the chocolate topping
- Combine chocolate chips and 1/4 cup peanut butter in a medium bowl.
- Microwave in 30–40 second bursts, stirring between each burst, until fully melted and smooth.
- Pour the glossy chocolate over the chilled peanut butter base and smooth with an offset spatula. Create a ripple effect by dragging the spatula back and forth for a decorative finish.
- Refrigerate for at least one hour to set, then slice into bars.
Tips, tricks, and variations
- Natural vs processed peanut butter: Natural peanut butter can separate—stir it very well first. You may want to add a pinch more salt and a bit more powdered sugar to taste.
- Texture play: Coarser graham pieces or chopped nuts add a satisfying crunch that elevates the bars above a simple peanut butter cup.
- Cookie swaps: No graham crackers? Use shortbread, biscoff, or another crisp cookie as a flavorful alternative.
- Make-ahead: Keep bars refrigerated up to a week or freeze for one to two months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
- Serving: Cut with a hot, dry knife for clean slices; wipe between cuts if needed.
Final notes
These no-bake peanut butter bars are a fast, crowd-pleasing dessert that fits effortless entertaining and everyday indulgence. The balanced salty-sweet profile and inviting textures make them a repeat favorite for anyone exploring cooking, recipes, bon apetit at home. For those who love baking videos and more peanut butter recipes, John Kanell’s Preppy Kitchen offers additional inspiration and variations.
Try this recipe as written, then experiment: add a teaspoon of vanilla for lift, fold in mix-ins, or swap cookies to put a personal stamp on a reliably delicious treat.
This article was created from the video Easy Peanut Butter Bars Recipe with the help of AI.
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