Peanut butter bars
User Reviews
5
Peanut butter bars
Description
These Peanut Butter Bars start with a base made from melted unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter mixed smooth with powdered sugar, creating a sweet, rich foundation. Graham cracker crumbs folded into the base add a crunchy texture reminiscent of a classic crust, binding together the ingredients without baking.
The topping combines melted semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips with a small amount of peanut butter to yield a creamy, glossy chocolate layer that contrasts the firmer base. The assembled bars are chilled in the refrigerator for at least 90 minutes to set, allowing clean cutting into bars that hold their shape well.
Using creamy peanut butter is important for the proper texture of the base. Lining the pan with parchment or foil simplifies removal after chilling. The bars keep well refrigerated for about a week or can be frozen for longer storage.
A sharp or serrated knife works best for cutting thick bars without cracking the chocolate topping. These bars are suitable for make-ahead treats or casual snacking.
Ingredients
For the Base:
- 1 cup butter melted and slightly cooled (210g, unsalted
- 1 cup peanut butter 300g, creamy
- 1 ¾ cups powdered sugar (210g)
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (240g)
For the chocolate topping:
- 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips 280g, or milk chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup peanut butter 65g, creamy
Instructions
- Line a 8x8 or 9x9 dish with parchment paper or foil.
- Crush graham crackers in a ziploc bag using a rolling pin or blitz using a food processor.
- Melt butter in a large bowl add peanut butter and mix until smooth.
- Beat in powdered sugar then fold in the crumbs. Transfer to lined dish and smooth.
- Melt chocolate and peanut butter, pour over the peanut butter base, smooth then chill for at least 90 minutes.
- Cut into bars and enjoy.
Notes
- Use an 8x8 or 9x9 square dish for thicker bars and easier slicing.
- Line the dish with parchment paper to remove bars cleanly after chilling.
- Creamy peanut butter is best; oily varieties may affect set and texture.
- Melt chocolate using a stovetop double boiler or microwave, stirring until smooth.
- Chill bars at least 90 minutes or overnight for a firmer, creamier topping texture.
- Use a sharp or serrated knife to cut bars to avoid cracking the chocolate topping.
- Store bars in the refrigerator for 5-7 days or freeze for longer preservation.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 12bars
Amount Per Serving
Calories 592 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1bar | |
| Calories | 592kcal | 30% |
| Carbohydrates | 49g | 16% |
| Protein | 10g | 20% |
| Fat | 42g | 65% |
| Saturated Fat | 19g | 95% |
| Cholesterol | 42mg | 14% |
| Sodium | 221mg | 9% |
| Potassium | 371mg | 8% |
| Fiber | 4g | 16% |
| Sugar | 34g | 68% |
| Vitamin A | 488IU | 10% |
| Calcium | 45mg | 5% |
| Iron | 3mg | 17% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.