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No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars

These no-bake peanut butter bars are a quick and easy treat that combine creamy peanut butter with a crunchy graham cracker base and a smooth chocolate topping. They come together with simple ingredients, requiring no oven, and have a rich, chewy texture with a glossy chocolate finish. Perfect for satisfying sweet cravings in minutes and versatile enough for customization.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter smooth and rich
  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup for sweetness
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs crushed into fine crumbs
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips for melting into chocolate topping
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract optional, enhances flavor
  • pinch sea salt optional, for flavor contrast

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • 9x9-inch baking dish
  • Spatula
  • Microwave-safe bowl
  • Parchment paper

Method
 

  1. Line a 9x9 inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and creamy, releasing a sweet, nutty aroma.
  3. Add the graham cracker crumbs to the peanut butter mixture. Mix thoroughly until all the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture is sticky yet firm enough to hold together.
  4. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, using the back of a spatula or your fingers to create a smooth, compact base.
  5. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in short bursts, stirring between each, until smooth and glossy. The chocolate should be warm and fluid.
  6. Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer, using a spatula to spread it evenly and create a glossy top.
  7. Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt or chopped nuts on top if desired, adding a touch of contrast and texture to the finish.
  8. Place the dish in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate is set and the bars are firm.
  9. Once chilled and firm, lift the bars out of the dish using the parchment paper and cut into squares or rectangles of your desired size.
  10. Serve these rich, chewy bars on their own or with a glass of milk, enjoying their irresistible combination of creamy peanut butter and smooth chocolate.

Notes

Feel free to customize by adding chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or dried fruits on top before chilling.