If you’re on the hunt for an irresistibly delicious treat that comes together in no time and requires zero oven fuss, you’ve just found your new favorite. This No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars Recipe perfectly balances rich chocolate with creamy peanut butter, all on a crispy base made from crushed crackers. It’s silky, crunchy, and sweet all at once, making these bars an absolute showstopper for any occasion—from casual afternoons to special celebrations. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to keep it in your snack arsenal forever.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars Recipe so easy and delicious is the simplicity of its ingredients. Each one brings its own magic to the table—whether it’s that buttery base, the rich peanut butter creaminess, or the glossy chocolate topping that ties it all together.
- 115g melted salted butter: Adds moisture and richness, and helps bind the base into a firm crust.
- 1 cup crushed Arnott’s Marie crackers or graham cracker crumbs: Provides the perfect crunchy texture and subtle sweetness for the base layer.
- 1 cup icing sugar (powdered sugar): Sweetens the base while contributing to a smooth consistency.
- 3/4 cup smooth peanut butter: Brings that unmistakable creamy, nutty flavor that’s the star of this dessert.
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips (semi-sweet): The melting chocolate topping adds a glossy, decadent finish that pairs beautifully with peanut butter.
- 2 tbsp smooth peanut butter: Mixed with the chocolate for extra depth and luscious texture on top.
How to Make No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by buttering an 8-inch (or 20cm) square dish, then line it with baking paper. This little prep step ensures your bars will come out cleanly and look as perfect as they taste.
Step 2: Mix and Press the Base
Combine the melted butter, crushed crackers, icing sugar, and 3/4 cup peanut butter in a bowl. Mix until everything is well blended and forming a crumbly but sticky dough. Press this mixture evenly and firmly into your prepared pan—this base is the crunchy canvas for your chocolate peanut butter masterpiece.
Step 3: Make the Chocolate-Peanut Butter Topping
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips together with the 2 tablespoons of peanut butter. I find doing this in two 30-second bursts with a quick stir in between works perfectly to avoid any burning. Once melted and smooth, pour the luscious chocolate peanut butter mixture over the base layer and spread it evenly. For a playful finish, swirl the topping with a spoon for that irresistible marbled look.
Step 4: Chill Until Set
Pop the pan into the fridge for about 1 and a half hours to let everything firm up beautifully. When you take it out, let the bars sit at room temperature just a little while before cutting. This little trick helps you get those clean, neat squares that are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate.
How to Serve No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Want to add extra flair when serving? Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt atop the chocolate layer for a sophisticated sweet-salty contrast, or add chopped roasted peanuts for an added crunch and nutty aroma that complements the peanut butter perfectly.
Side Dishes
These bars shine on their own but pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the richness. If you’re feeling fancy, a drizzle of caramel sauce alongside provides a lovely contrast of flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice your bars into mini bites for an elegant party platter, or layer them in small clear jars to gift to friends and family—presentation is a charming way to celebrate this simple treat. Wrapping individual squares in parchment paper also makes for delightful homemade gifts or easy grab-and-go snacks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once made, these bars keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Keep them chilled to maintain that firm yet creamy texture, then allow bar pieces to soften just a bit before enjoying.
Freezing
Want to stash these away for even longer? Freeze the bars in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers for up to three months. When you’re ready to indulge, just thaw them overnight in the fridge for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Since these bars are not baked, reheating isn’t necessary. If you prefer them a little softer, simply let them sit at room temperature for a short while. This warms the peanut butter slightly and releases those delicious aromas.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add an extra texture element and a delightful crunch that works well with the smooth chocolate topping.
What if I don’t have Marie crackers or graham crackers?
You can substitute with digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or any slightly sweet, sturdy cookie crumbs—just make sure they’re crushed finely for the best base texture.
Is it possible to use natural peanut butter in this recipe?
Yes, but natural peanut butter is usually thinner and oilier. You might need to add a bit less melted butter or chill the mixture longer to help the base set properly.
Can I make these bars vegan?
Definitely! Use dairy-free butter, vegan chocolate chips, and a plant-based peanut butter. The bars will still be just as delicious and rich in flavor.
How long do the bars take to set in the fridge?
About 1 and a half hours is usually perfect to make sure the chocolate topping hardens and the base is firm enough to cut without crumbling.
Final Thoughts
This No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars Recipe is one of those magical no-fail desserts that brings pure joy with minimal effort. Whether you whip it up for a quick treat or to impress guests, these bars serve as a delicious reminder that sometimes the simplest recipes become the most beloved. Go ahead, try it out—you might just find your new favorite sweet indulgence.
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No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
These no-bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars combine a crunchy cracker base with a smooth peanut butter and rich dark chocolate topping for a delicious and easy treat. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without turning on the oven.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 115g / 1/2 cup / 1 US stick melted salted butter (or unsalted butter + 1/4 tsp salt)
- 1 cup crushed Arnott’s Marie crackers (11 crackers) or graham cracker crumbs (8 crackers)
- 1 cup icing sugar / powdered sugar
- 3/4 cup smooth peanut butter
Topping Ingredients
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips (melting kind, semi-sweet)
- 2 tbsp smooth peanut butter
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Butter and line an 8″ / 20cm square dish or pan with baking paper to ensure easy removal of the bars later.
- Make the base: In a bowl, combine the melted butter, crushed crackers, icing sugar, and 3/4 cup peanut butter until fully mixed. Press this mixture evenly into the prepared pan to form the base layer.
- Prepare the topping: Melt the chocolate chips and 2 tablespoons peanut butter together, ideally in the microwave by heating in two 30-second intervals, stirring in between. Once smooth, pour and spread the chocolate mixture evenly over the base, smoothing or swirling as desired.
- Set the bars: Refrigerate the pan for about 1 1/2 hours until the chocolate topping is firm. Before cutting, allow the bars to come to room temperature slightly to ensure clean cuts. Cut into 16 squares or your preferred shapes and serve best at room temperature.
Notes
- You can substitute Arnott’s Marie crackers with graham cracker crumbs if preferred.
- Use melting chocolate chips (semi-sweet) for an easy melt and smooth topping.
- Allowing the bars to soften slightly at room temperature before slicing helps achieve neat cuts.
- This recipe requires no baking, making it quick and convenient.
