Description
These no-bake chocolate peanut butter bars are a simple, pantry-friendly dessert made with just a few ingredients. They require no baking, take only 15 minutes of active time, and are perfect for lazy weeknights or hot summer days.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 sleeve (about 24 full sheets / 200g) graham crackers
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
- ½ cup (120g) creamy peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup (170g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Sea salt flakes (optional)
- Crushed peanuts (optional)
Instructions
- Line a 9×9 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the long sides for easy removal.
- Crush the graham crackers into coarse crumbs using a food processor or a ziplock bag and rolling pin. Transfer crumbs to a large mixing bowl.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the softened butter, powdered sugar, peanut butter, and vanilla extract. Microwave on high for 30-45 seconds, stirring halfway through, until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the melted peanut butter mixture over the graham cracker crumbs. Stir vigorously with a spatula until all crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture holds together when pressed.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Press it down firmly and evenly using the back of a spoon or the bottom of a measuring cup.
- In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 15-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and glossy.
- Pour the melted chocolate over the pressed base and spread evenly to the edges. Sprinkle with sea salt flakes or crushed peanuts if desired.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until the chocolate is completely set.
- Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Use a sharp knife to cut into squares or bars, wiping the knife between cuts for neat edges.
Notes
Press the base firmly to prevent crumbling. Do not overheat the chocolate to avoid seizing. Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months. For gluten-free version, use gluten-free graham crackers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 16
- Sodium: 90
- Fat: 10
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 22
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 4
Keywords: no-bake, chocolate, peanut butter, bars, dessert, easy recipe, 3 ingredients, graham crackers, quick dessert, family friendly