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no-bake chocolate peanut butter bars - featured image

No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars with Crunchy Topping

  • Author: Julia
  • Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 16 bars 1x

Description

These no-bake chocolate peanut butter bars combine creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate with a satisfyingly crunchy topping. Perfect for a quick, oven-free dessert or snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup creamy natural peanut butter (250g)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter (115g)
  • 1 ½ cups powdered sugar (180g)
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (150g)
  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (340g)
  • 1 cup crunchy topping (100g) – mix of crushed salted peanuts and Rice Krispies cereal
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and peanut butter together, stirring constantly until smooth (about 3-4 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and graham cracker crumbs. Pour the warm peanut butter mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until fully combined and thick.
  3. Transfer the mixture into a lined 8×8-inch baking pan. Press evenly and firmly into the bottom using a spatula or clean hands.
  4. Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second bursts, stirring between each until smooth. Pour melted chocolate over the peanut butter base and spread evenly. Sprinkle the crunchy topping evenly over the chocolate and press lightly.
  5. Chill the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours until set. Use parchment paper edges to lift the slab out and cut into bars. For clean cuts, dip the knife in hot water and dry between slices.

Notes

Use parchment paper to line the pan for easy removal. Press the base firmly to prevent crumbling. Melt chocolate slowly to avoid seizing. Chill bars for at least 2 hours for best results. Warm knife before slicing for clean cuts. For gluten-free, substitute graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free crumbs. Variations include almond butter, salted pretzel topping, dark chocolate, vegan substitutions, and coconut crunch.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar (if cut into 1
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 14
  • Sodium: 90
  • Fat: 15
  • Saturated Fat: 6
  • Carbohydrates: 18
  • Fiber: 2
  • Protein: 5

Keywords: no-bake, chocolate peanut butter bars, crunchy topping, easy dessert, peanut butter dessert, no oven dessert, quick snack

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Find it online: https://mealuv.com/no-bake-chocolate-peanut-butter-bars-recipe-5-easy-steps-to-make-perfect-crunchy-topping/