No-Bake Double Peanut Butter Bars are a rich, indulgent treat that combines the creamy goodness of peanut butter with a smooth chocolate topping. These bars are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and no oven time. Perfect for peanut butter lovers, they’re a great dessert for parties, lunchboxes, or an anytime snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No-Bake & Easy: No oven required—just mix, layer, and chill.
- Double the Peanut Butter: Peanut butter in both the base and the topping.
- Rich & Creamy: A perfect balance of smooth chocolate and peanut butter.
- Quick to Make: Ready in under 30 minutes before chilling.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for parties, holidays, or a quick dessert fix.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Powdered sugar
- Butter (melted)
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Vanilla extract
Directions
- Prepare the Base: In a mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, melted butter, powdered sugar, and graham cracker crumbs. Stir until well blended.
- Press into Pan: Spread the mixture evenly into a lined 9×9-inch baking dish, pressing it down firmly.
- Melt the Chocolate Topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with additional peanut butter in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Spread the Topping: Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the peanut butter layer, spreading evenly.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until firm.
- Slice & Serve: Cut into bars and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes about 16 bars
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Variations
- Crunchy Version: Use crunchy peanut butter for extra texture.
- Dark Chocolate Twist: Swap semi-sweet chocolate for dark chocolate.
- Nut-Free Alternative: Replace peanut butter with almond or sunflower seed butter.
- Extra Toppings: Add chopped peanuts or sea salt on top for extra crunch.
- Cookie Crust: Use crushed Oreos instead of graham crackers for a richer base.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
- Reheating: No need to reheat—just enjoy them cold or at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but stir it well before using, as natural peanut butter tends to separate.
What can I use instead of graham crackers?
You can use crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even pretzels for a salty twist.
How do I make these bars firmer?
Increase the amount of graham cracker crumbs or chill them longer.
Can I use white chocolate instead of dark?
Absolutely! White chocolate gives a sweeter, creamier finish.
Why are my bars too soft?
Make sure you’re using enough powdered sugar and letting them chill long enough.
Can I add mix-ins?
Yes! Try adding mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the peanut butter layer.
How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking when slicing?
Let the bars sit at room temperature for a few minutes before cutting with a sharp knife.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger pan (9×13) and adjust the chilling time accordingly.
Can I make them dairy-free?
Use dairy-free butter and chocolate chips to make this recipe completely dairy-free.
Are these similar to peanut butter cups?
Yes! They have the same flavor profile but in a bar form with a graham cracker base.
Conclusion
No-Bake Double Peanut Butter Bars are an easy, delicious treat that satisfies any peanut butter and chocolate craving. Whether you make them for a party, a snack, or meal prep, these bars will become a go-to dessert in your recipe collection. Enjoy their rich, creamy texture with minimal effort!
Print
No-Bake Double Peanut Butter Bars
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 1 hr
- Total Time: 1 hr 10 min
- Category: Dessert, No-Bake Treats
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Description
These no-bake peanut butter bars are rich, creamy, and packed with double peanut butter goodness! With a buttery peanut butter base and a smooth chocolate-peanut butter topping, they taste like Reese’s but are even easier to make. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack!
Ingredients
For the Peanut Butter Base
- 1 cup (250 g) creamy peanut butter 🥜
- 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups (240 g) powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 cups (150 g) graham cracker crumbs
For the Chocolate-Peanut Butter Topping
- 1 cup (180 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips 🍫
- 1/4 cup (60 g) creamy peanut butter
Instructions
1. Prepare the Peanut Butter Base
- Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix peanut butter, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Add the powdered sugar and graham cracker crumbs, stirring until well combined.
- Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan.
2. Make the Chocolate-Peanut Butter Topping
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and peanut butter together in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth.
- Pour the chocolate mixture over the peanut butter base and spread evenly.
3. Chill & Serve
- Refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours, or until firm.
- Once set, cut into squares or bars and enjoy!
Notes
✔ Crunchy peanut butter? Use it for extra texture!
✔ Want more crunch? Add chopped peanuts on top before chilling.
✔ Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 3 months.