No Bake Peanut Butter Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No Bake Peanut Butter Bars are a rich, indulgent treat made with a creamy peanut butter base and topped with a smooth chocolate layer. They come together quickly without the need for an oven, making them perfect for warm days or when you need a fast dessert. These bars taste like a homemade version of your favorite peanut butter cup—perfect for parties, potlucks, or a late-night craving.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

graham cracker crumbs
powdered sugar
unsalted butter
creamy peanut butter
semi-sweet chocolate chips
additional peanut butter (for the chocolate layer)

directions

Line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, melted butter, and peanut butter until fully combined.

Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with the additional peanut butter in 20-30 second increments, stirring between each until smooth.

Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the peanut butter base and spread evenly.

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the bars are firm and set.

Lift from the pan using the parchment paper and cut into squares.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 16 bars.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
Add a pinch of sea salt on top for a sweet and salty combo.
Substitute almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor.
Mix in mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the base for added crunch.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Freeze for up to 2 months, separating layers with parchment paper.
No reheating is necessary; enjoy straight from the fridge or thaw slightly if frozen.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but make sure it’s well stirred and not too oily or runny.

Do I need to bake these at all?
No, they are completely no-bake and set in the fridge.

Can I make them dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free butter and chocolate alternatives.

Why are my bars too soft?
Ensure they chill long enough and consider using less butter if your peanut butter is very oily.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely, just use a larger pan such as 9×13 inches.

Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs.

What kind of chocolate works best?
Semi-sweet or dark chocolate pairs well with the sweet peanut butter base.

How long do they take to set?
Typically about 2 hours in the fridge.

Are they safe for kids?
Yes, they are kid-friendly and great for lunchboxes or snacks.

Do I have to use parchment paper?
It’s recommended for easy removal, but you can also grease the pan well.

Conclusion

No Bake Peanut Butter Bars are a quick and satisfying dessert that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. With their classic combo of peanut butter and chocolate, they’re sure to become a go-to favorite for any occasion. Keep a batch in your fridge for a treat that’s ready whenever you need a sweet fix.

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