Description
Sweet Simplicity Peanut Butter Bars are a no-bake dessert that combines creamy peanut butter, melted butter, powdered sugar, and crunchy graham cracker crumbs for a rich base, topped with a luscious chocolate and peanut butter layer. These bars are easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and chill to perfection, making them an ideal sweet treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Base
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 3/4 cups graham cracker crumbs
Topping
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking and allow easy removal of the bars.
- Make the Base Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, melted unsalted butter, powdered sugar, and graham cracker crumbs. Stir everything together thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Press Base into Pan: Evenly press the peanut butter mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan, ensuring a compact and uniform layer.
- Melt Chocolate and Peanut Butter: Place the semi-sweet chocolate chips and 2 tablespoons of peanut butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 20-second intervals, stirring thoroughly between each, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth.
- Spread Topping: Pour the melted chocolate and peanut butter mixture over the peanut butter base in the pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the surface.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate the pan for at least 2 hours, or until the bars are firm and fully set.
- Slice and Serve: Once chilled and firm, remove the bars from the pan using the parchment paper edges, slice into 16 bars, and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- For a crunchier texture, add 1/4 cup chopped peanuts to the base mixture before pressing it into the pan.
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- These bars can also be frozen for longer storage; thaw before serving.
