If you have a sweet tooth that craves the perfect combination of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate without turning on the oven, this No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars Recipe is absolutely made for you. It delivers the ideal balance of buttery, nutty, and chocolatey goodness in every bite, with a satisfying texture that’s both crunchy and smooth. Whether you’re whipping up a quick treat for a busy day or impressing guests with no-fuss desserts, these bars hit all the right notes without any baking required.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a clear glass baking dish filled with a smooth, light brown layer that looks like a peanut butter mixture, evenly spread. In front of it, there is a clear glass bowl with a large scoop of creamy peanut butter mixed with a pile of dark brown chocolate chips on top. To the right of the bowl, a white spatula rests on a folded gray and white checkered cloth. The whole scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are simple pantry staples yet essential for crafting the perfect harmony of flavors and textures in your bars. Each one adds its own magic—from the buttery richness to the sweet crunch and that unmistakable peanut butter charm.

Unsalted butter (1 cup or 2 sticks): Melted to bring a creamy richness that binds the base layer perfectly.
Creamy peanut butter (1 ½ cups plus ⅔ cup for topping): Adds luscious, nutty flavor and smooth texture that defines these bars.
Graham cracker crumbs (2 cups): Provides a lightly sweet, crunchy foundation that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy layers.
Powdered sugar (2 cups): Sweetens the peanut butter mixture without graininess, ensuring a melt-in-your-mouth finish.
Chocolate chips (1 cup, semi-sweet or milk): Melts into a glossy, indulgent topping that perfectly complements the peanut butter below.

How to Make No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Start by buttering the bottom and sides of a 9×13 baking pan. This crucial step ensures your bars release easily after chilling, keeping their perfect shape intact.

Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Base

In a medium bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, creamy peanut butter, graham cracker crumbs, and powdered sugar. Stir until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency that’s easy to press. This mixture is the heart of your bars, blending buttery sweetness with that classic peanut punch.

Step 3: Press the Base into the Pan

Firmly press the peanut butter mixture into your prepared pan, creating an even layer. This part takes a bit of muscle but it’s worth it for a sturdy foundation that holds up to the luscious chocolate topping.

Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Peanut Butter Topping

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the ⅔ cup of peanut butter and the chocolate chips. Heat for 30 seconds, then stir. Continue heating in 10-second increments until everything is fully melted and smooth. This glossy chocolate mixture adds a decadent layer that perfectly complements the base.

Step 5: Spread the Chocolate Layer

Evenly spread the melted chocolate and peanut butter mixture over the peanut butter base. Smooth it out as best as you can for an inviting shiny top that looks as good as it tastes.

Step 6: Chill Until Firm

Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This chilling time is essential to let your bars set properly so they slice cleanly and hold their shape when served.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Once chilled, allow your bars to come to room temperature before cutting. This small but important tip prevents crumbly edges or sticky chocolate on your knife. Serve these irresistible bars slightly chilled or at room temperature depending on your preference.

How to Serve No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars Recipe

The image shows many square-shaped dessert bars stacked closely on a shiny metal surface. Each bar has two distinct layers: the bottom layer is a light tan color with a crumbly, soft texture, and the top layer is a thick, smooth chocolate coating with gentle waves and slight glossy shine. One square has a bite taken out, revealing the contrast between the crunchy bottom and the creamy chocolate top. The bars are arranged in a somewhat random manner, overlapping and filling almost the entire frame. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Add a little extra flair by sprinkling chopped peanuts or a light dusting of cocoa powder over the top before serving. A drizzle of melted peanut butter or chocolate can also elevate the presentation and give guests a hint of the flavors inside!

Side Dishes

Pair these bars with a cold glass of milk or a cup of strong coffee to balance the sweetness. For a fun dessert spread, serve alongside fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the bars into bite-sized squares and arranging them on a platter with colorful napkins or festive cupcake liners for parties. Another idea is to stack smaller bars on a dessert tower for a stunning visual effect that invites guests to dig in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any extra bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. This helps preserve their freshness and maintain the perfect chewy and creamy texture you love.

Freezing

If you want to prepare these bars well in advance, they freeze beautifully. Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

Since these bars are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, there’s no need to heat them up. If you prefer a softer texture, simply let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful bit of texture to your base layer, giving each bite a little extra crunch. Just be sure to blend it thoroughly so the mixture holds together well.

Is there a substitute for graham cracker crumbs?

If you don’t have graham crackers on hand, crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers work just as well and offer a similar sweetness and crunch that complements the peanut butter.

Can I make these bars vegan?

Yes! Use dairy-free butter or coconut oil, and choose vegan-friendly peanut butter and chocolate chips. The bars will still turn out delicious and satisfy those cravings without any animal products.

How long do these bars need to chill?

For best results, chill the bars for at least 2 hours. This allows the layers to fully set, making slicing easier and enhancing the overall texture and flavor.

Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?

Definitely! Just double all the ingredients and use a larger pan or make two batches separately. The process and taste remain fantastic no matter the quantity.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a peanut butter fan or simply love the unbeatable combination of chocolate and nuts, this No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars Recipe is a must-try. It’s easy, quick, and incredibly satisfying, making it a go-to dessert for any occasion. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and prepare to enjoy one of the most delicious bars you’ll ever make without even turning on your oven!

No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars Recipe

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3.8 from 89 reviews

Author: Sophia
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 12 bars

Print Recipe

Description

No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars are a deliciously rich and creamy treat made with a peanut butter and graham cracker base topped with a smooth chocolate and peanut butter layer. These bars require no baking, making them quick and easy to prepare, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Peanut Butter Layer:

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter
2 cups graham cracker crumbs (approximately 10 to 12 graham crackers)
2 cups powdered sugar

Chocolate Topping:

⅔ cup creamy peanut butter
1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)

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Instructions

Prepare the Pan: Butter the bottom and sides of a 9×13 baking pan to prevent the bars from sticking, then set the pan aside.
Make the Peanut Butter Layer: In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, creamy peanut butter, graham cracker crumbs, and powdered sugar. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared baking pan to form the base layer.
Prepare the Chocolate Topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the peanut butter and chocolate chips. Heat for 30 seconds, then stir. Continue heating in 10-second increments, stirring after each, until the chocolate chips are fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
Assemble the Bars: Spread the melted chocolate and peanut butter mixture evenly over the peanut butter base in the pan.
Chill to Set: Refrigerate the assembled bars for at least 2 hours or until firm enough to slice.
Slice and Serve: Remove from the refrigerator and allow bars to come to room temperature before cutting to avoid difficulty slicing. Serve chilled or at room temperature—chilled is preferred for best texture.
Storage: Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week to maintain freshness.

Notes

Allow bars to come to room temperature before slicing to ensure clean cuts.
Use either semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips according to your preference.
The bars are best served chilled but can also be enjoyed at room temperature.
Store bars in an airtight container refrigerated to keep them fresh for up to one week.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Bars
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American