Peanut Butter Bars
These Peanut Butter Bars are the perfect treat for any occasion. They combine the classic flavors of chocolate and peanut butter in a delightful, no-bake dessert. Quick to prepare and easy to share, these bars are ideal for parties, potlucks, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. With simple ingredients that everyone loves, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy – This recipe takes just 10 minutes to prep, making it a convenient choice for last-minute dessert cravings.
- No Baking Required – Enjoy all the deliciousness without turning on the oven. Just mix, chill, and serve!
- Irresistible Flavor – The combination of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate is a match made in heaven that appeals to all ages.
- Customizable Toppings – Feel free to add your favorite toppings or sprinkles to make these bars festive for holidays or special occasions.
- Perfect for Sharing – Cut these Peanut Butter Bars into bite-sized pieces for easy sharing at gatherings or events.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything on hand will streamline the process and ensure you create the perfect Peanut Butter Bars.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
- Parchment paper
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Spatula
- 8×8” or 9×9” baking dish
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls – Essential for combining ingredients without spilling.
- Electric hand mixer – Makes mixing smooth and quick; saves time and effort.
- Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup much easier.
Ingredients
These Peanut Butter Bars are a quick and easy recipe that’s made with simple ingredients and loved by every peanut butter lover. They’re a no-bake dessert that combines classic flavors of chocolate and peanut butter in a very simple way.
- 2 cups creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened (1 stick))
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 4-5 cups powdered sugar (start with 4 cups and add more if too wet)
- 1 ½ cups chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons festive sprinkles (optional)
How to Make Peanut Butter Bars
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Line an 8×8” or 9×9 dish with parchment paper. This will help you remove the bars easily once they’re set.
Step 2: Mix Butter and Peanut Butter
In a large bowl, add the peanut butter and softened butter. Blend on medium speed with an electric hand mixer until smooth. Alternatively, use a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment.
Step 3: Add Vanilla Extract and Salt
Next, add the vanilla extract and salt. Blend again until everything is well combined.
Step 4: Incorporate Powdered Sugar
Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed between each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as you go. Start with 4 cups but add more if necessary until the mixture is not too wet.
Step 5: Form the Dough
Mix just until the sugar is incorporated. The dough should look like large crumbles.
Step 6: Press into Dish
Pour the dough into your prepared pan, pressing it down into an even layer. For an extra smooth top, cover it with another piece of parchment or wax paper before pressing down.
Step 7: Melt Chocolate
In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat in intervals of 30 seconds in the microwave, stirring between each interval until fully melted.
Step 8: Spread Chocolate Over Bars
Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter mixture in your pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the top.
Step 9: Add Sprinkles
While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle on any festive toppings or sprinkles you’d like.
Step 10: Chill to Set
Place the bars in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes to set completely.
Step 11: Serve
Enjoy chilled or at room temperature! Cut into squares for serving.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Bars
These Peanut Butter Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are hosting a party or simply indulging at home, here are some creative serving suggestions.
With Fresh Fruits
- Sliced Bananas: The creamy texture of peanut butter bars pairs wonderfully with fresh banana slices.
- Berries: Serve with strawberries or blueberries for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Peanut Butter Bar Sandwich: Place a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two peanut butter bars for a delicious twist.
Drizzled with Chocolate
- Chocolate Sauce: A warm drizzle of chocolate sauce enhances the flavor and adds an elegant touch.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra layer of sweetness.
As Party Favors
- Individually Wrapped: Cut into squares, wrap them in cellophane, and tie with a ribbon for a cute party favor.
On a Dessert Platter
- Dessert Spread: Include these bars on a platter alongside cookies and brownies for variety at gatherings.
How to Perfect Peanut Butter Bars
To make your Peanut Butter Bars even better, follow these helpful tips.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Starting with softened butter and peanut butter helps create a smoother mixture.
- Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the powdered sugar amount based on your sweetness preference.
- Chill Longer if Needed: If your bars don’t set well in 20 minutes, chill them longer to achieve the right consistency.
- Choose Quality Chocolate: Using high-quality chocolate chips will elevate the overall taste of your bars.
- Decorate Creatively: Experiment with different toppings like crushed nuts or coconut flakes for added texture and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Bars
Peanut Butter Bars can be complemented by several delicious side dishes. Here are some great options to serve alongside them.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness to balance the richness of the bars.
- Vanilla Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy side that pairs well.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses provides savory notes that contrast beautifully with sweet treats.
- Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: These add a fun crunch and salty-sweet combination that visitors will love.
- Trail Mix: A homemade trail mix can offer texture variations, including nuts and dried fruits that enhance each bite.
- Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Set up an ice cream station where guests can create their own sundaes, perfect for topping off peanut butter bars.
- Coffee or Tea Service: Offering hot beverages can complement the flavors nicely and provide warmth to your dessert experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Peanut Butter Bars can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can ruin the experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:
- Incorrect measurements: Using too much or too little peanut butter can change the texture. Always measure accurately for best results.
- Skipping the chilling step: If you skip refrigerating the bars, they may not hold their shape. Allow enough time for them to set in the fridge.
- Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much after adding powdered sugar can lead to a tough texture. Mix just until combined for a perfect crumbly bar.
- Not using parchment paper: Failing to line your dish can make it hard to remove the bars later. Always line with parchment for easy lifting.
- Inadequate melting of chocolate: Not melting the chocolate completely can result in a clumpy topping. Heat in short intervals and stir well to ensure smoothness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Peanut Butter Bars will last up to one week in the fridge.
Freezing Peanut Butter Bars
- Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe container; they will keep for up to three months.
Reheating Peanut Butter Bars
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place bars on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat for 10-15 seconds at a time until slightly warm, being careful not to overheat.
- Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Peanut Butter Bars:
How do I make my Peanut Butter Bars firmer?
To firm up your bars, increase the amount of powdered sugar slightly until you achieve your desired consistency.
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes! Natural peanut butter works well but may require more powdered sugar due to its oily nature.
What if I don’t have chocolate chips?
You can use any type of chocolate (like chopped chocolate bars) or even white chocolate chips as a substitute.
How long do these Peanut Butter Bars last?
When stored correctly, they will last up to one week in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer.
Can I customize my Peanut Butter Bars?
Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, dried fruit, or different toppings like caramel or coconut flakes.
Final Thoughts
These Peanut Butter Bars are not only delicious but also versatile. They make for a fantastic dessert and are perfect for any occasion. You can easily customize them by adding your favorite ingredients like nuts or different types of chocolate. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy these heavenly treats with family and friends!
Peanut Butter Bars
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: About 16 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful sweetness of these No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars, a perfect treat for any occasion! Combining the rich flavors of creamy peanut butter and velvety chocolate, this easy recipe results in a satisfying dessert that everyone will adore. With minimal effort and no baking required, you can whip up these bars in just 10 minutes. Whether for parties, potlucks, or a cozy night at home, these bars are sure to become a family favorite. Customize them with festive toppings or enjoy them plain—the choice is yours!
Ingredients
- 2 cups creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 4–5 cups powdered sugar
- 1 ½ cups chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil
- Optional: 2 tablespoons festive sprinkles
Instructions
- Line an 8×8” or 9×9" baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix together peanut butter and softened butter until smooth.
- Add vanilla extract and salt; combine well.
- Gradually mix in powdered sugar until dough-like consistency is achieved.
- Press the mixture into the prepared dish evenly.
- Melt chocolate chips with coconut oil in the microwave until smooth.
- Pour melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle optional toppings on top while chocolate is still wet.
- Refrigerate for about 20 minutes to set before cutting into squares.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (43g)
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
