Description
Easy no-bake peanut butter bars with graham cracker crust, creamy peanut butter filling, and rich chocolate topping. Perfect make-ahead dessert!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 full sheets)
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup milk
- 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
- Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs using a food processor or zip-top bag and rolling pin.
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix well until evenly moistened.
- Press the mixture firmly into an ungreased 9×13 inch baking pan to form an even layer.
- Chill the crust in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated.
- Mix in the peanut butter and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the filling reaches a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Spread the peanut butter filling evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust.
- Chill again for at least 30 minutes, or until the filling is firm.
- In a heat-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and butter. Melt in the microwave (30-second intervals, stirring in between) or over a double boiler until smooth.
- Stir until completely smooth and glossy.
- Pour the melted chocolate evenly over the peanut butter filling.
- Spread into an even layer.
- Chill for at least 1 hour, or until the chocolate is completely set.
- Let the bars sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before cutting.
- Use a warm knife to cut into squares.
- Serve cold or at room temperature.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.
Notes
- For best results, ensure butter is softened, not melted, for the peanut butter filling.
- Add milk to the peanut butter filling gradually, as you may not need all of it.
- Warm the knife under hot water between cuts for cleaner slices.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes