Peanut Butter Bars
User Reviews
5
Peanut Butter Bars
Description
Peanut Butter Bars feature a smooth mixture of peanut butter, butter, vanilla extract, salt, and powdered sugar pressed into a pan to create a firm base. Afterward, a melted chocolate topping made with chocolate chips and coconut oil is poured over the layer. Mixing the dough just until the sugar is incorporated maintains the right crumbliness and firmness without being too wet or overly dense.
The texture is firm yet tender, breaking into neat bars when sliced. A smooth surface is achieved by pressing with parchment or wax paper before adding the chocolate. The chocolate layer adds a glossy, slightly firm finish to complement the creamy interior.
These bars can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to a week, making them suitable for make-ahead dessert or snack options. The recipe allows flexibility with the type of chocolate used and optional decoration with sprinkles or sea salt. Careful measuring and lightly spooning powdered sugar ensures the best texture for cutting and serving.
Ingredients
- 2 cups peanut butter creamy
- ½ cup butter softened (1 stick, unsalted
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 4-5 cups powdered sugar start with 4 cups and add more if too wet.
- 1 ½ cups chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons Sprinkles optional, festive
Instructions
- Line an 8x8” or 9x9" dish with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, add the peanut butter and softened butter and blend on medium speed with an electric hand mixer until smooth. (or use the the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment).
- Next, add the vanilla extract and salt and blend to combine.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar mixing on low speed in between each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as you add. start with 4 cups but you may need a little more if the peanut butter is too wet.
- Mix just until the sugar is incorporated and the dough looks like large crumbles.
- Pour the dough to the prepared pan and press it down into an even layer. For an extra smooth top, place a piece of parchment paper or wax paper over top and press the dough down until flat.
- In medium microwave safe bowl, add the chocolate chips and coconut oil and heat for 30-seconds then stir and repeat for 2 other 30- intervals, stirring between each interval.
- Pour the melted chocolate over top of the peanut butter mixture and spread it out evenly.
- Top with sprinkles while the chocolate is wet.
- Place the bars in the refrigerator for 20 minutes to set.
- Enjoy chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use classic creamy peanut butter, avoiding all-natural versions that can be oily and affect texture.
- Gradually add powdered sugar until the dough is firm but not too wet; lightly spoon sugar into measuring cups without packing.
- For clean, smooth bar tops, press dough with parchment or wax paper before adding melted chocolate.
- Warm the knife with hot water and wipe between slices to cut bars cleanly.
- Coconut oil adds shine to the chocolate; use refined oil if you prefer no coconut flavor.
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 25bars
Amount Per Serving
Calories 306 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1bar | |
| Calories | 306kcal | 15% |
| Carbohydrates | 36g | 12% |
| Protein | 5g | 10% |
| Fat | 17g | 26% |
| Saturated Fat | 6g | 30% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3g | 18% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 6g | 30% |
| Trans Fat | 0.2g | 10% |
| Cholesterol | 11mg | 4% |
| Sodium | 143mg | 6% |
| Potassium | 118mg | 3% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 32g | 64% |
| Vitamin A | 138IU | 3% |
| Vitamin C | 0.1mg | 0% |
| Calcium | 24mg | 2% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.