- No Baking Required: Skip the oven and enjoy a quick preparation process.
- Simple Ingredients: Utilizes pantry staples you likely already have.
- Quick Preparation: From start to finish, you’ll need just about 15 minutes of active prep time.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The classic chocolate and peanut butter combination is always a hit.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 cup (240g) creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups (250g) powdered sugar
- 2 cups (200g) graham cracker crumbs
- 1 ½ cups (260g) semisweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup (120g) creamy peanut butter (for topping)
Directions
- Prepare the Pan: Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix the Base Layer: In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, 1 cup of creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and graham cracker crumbs. Stir until smooth and well combined.
- Form the Base: Evenly spread the peanut butter mixture into the prepared baking dish, pressing it down firmly to create a smooth layer.
- Prepare the Chocolate Topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and remaining ½ cup of peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until melted and smooth.
- Add the Topping: Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the peanut butter base, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Chill: Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate is firm.
- Serve: Once set, lift the bars out of the dish using the parchment paper and cut into squares or rectangles.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Approximately 16 bars
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chilling Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Variations
- Crunchy Texture: Substitute creamy peanut butter with crunchy peanut butter for added crunch.
- Extra Sweetness: Sprinkle mini Reese’s Pieces or crushed Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups over the chocolate layer before chilling.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Freezing: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
FAQs
Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, these bars freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container for up to three months. Let them thaw in the fridge before serving.
Can I use natural peanut butter?
You can, but the consistency may be slightly different. Natural peanut butter tends to separate, so ensure it’s well-mixed before using.
What if I don’t have graham crackers?
Crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers work as great substitutes.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, replace the butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
How should I cut the bars without cracking the chocolate?
Let the bars sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes before cutting to prevent the chocolate layer from cracking.
Can I add toppings to the chocolate layer?
Absolutely! Consider adding a drizzle of caramel sauce, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of sea salt for extra flavor and texture.
How long can these bars sit out at room temperature?
They can sit out for a few hours during serving, but it’s best to store them in the refrigerator to maintain their firmness, especially in warmer environments.
Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Yes, you can substitute semisweet chocolate chips with milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips based on your preference.
Is it necessary to use parchment paper?
While not mandatory, lining the pan with parchment paper makes it easier to remove and cut the bars cleanly.
Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe?
You can adjust the powdered sugar to your taste, but altering the amount may affect the texture and firmness of the bars.
Conclusion
Reese’s Peanut Butter No-Bake Bars are a delightful and straightforward dessert that brings together the beloved flavors of chocolate and peanut butter.
classic combination of chocolate and peanut butter
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16 bars
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
If you love the classic combination of chocolate and peanut butter, these Reese’s Peanut Butter No-Bake Bars are a must-try! This quick and easy recipe uses simple ingredients to create a decadent dessert without turning on the oven. Perfect for any occasion, these bars feature a creamy peanut butter and graham cracker base topped with rich, melted chocolate. Ready in just over two hours, they’re sure to become a household favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (240g) creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups (250g) powdered sugar
- 2 cups (200g) graham cracker crumbs
- 1 ½ cups (260g) semisweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup (120g) creamy peanut butter (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- Mix the Base Layer: Combine melted butter, 1 cup of peanut butter, powdered sugar, and graham cracker crumbs in a bowl. Stir until smooth.
- Form the Base: Press the peanut butter mixture evenly into the prepared dish.
- Prepare the Chocolate Topping: Melt the chocolate chips and ½ cup of peanut butter together in the microwave, stirring until smooth.
- Add the Topping: Spread the chocolate mixture over the base layer evenly.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
- Serve: Lift the bars out using the parchment paper, cut into squares or rectangles, and enjoy!
Notes
- Use parchment paper for easier removal and cutting.
- Substitute graham crackers with digestive biscuits for a twist.
- Allow the bars to rest at room temperature for 5 minutes before cutting to prevent chocolate cracking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
