What’s the easiest recipe for chocolate peanut butter bars?

Combine melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, and peanut butter. Press into a pan, then top with melted chocolate and more peanut butter. Chill until firm. It’s a no-bake, 5-ingredient classic that takes just 10 minutes to prep.

How are old-fashioned chocolate peanut butter bars different from modern ones?

Old-fashioned bars use pantry staples like graham crackers, powdered sugar, and classic creamy peanut butter. They’re richer, sweeter, and a bit firmer than today’s health-conscious versions. They evoke the nostalgic taste of school lunches and bake sales.

Can chocolate peanut butter bars be made healthy?

Absolutely! Swap out graham crackers for almond or oat flour, use natural peanut butter, and replace confectioners’ sugar with powdered monk fruit or coconut sugar. You can also use dark chocolate or sugar-free chips for the topping.

What can I use instead of graham crackers in peanut butter bars?

Try almond flour, oat flour, crushed gluten-free cookies, or even shredded coconut. These substitutes keep the bars firm while adding interesting new textures and flavors.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars – The Best 5-Ingredient No-Bake Recipe

Name: Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars – The Best 5-Ingredient No-Bake Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup (113g) salted butter, melted; 1 cup (120g) graham cracker crumbs (about 8 full sheets); 2 cups (240g) confectioners’ sugar; 1 cup + 2 tablespoons (280g) creamy peanut butter, divided; 1 cup (180g) semi-sweet chocolate chips

Description

These no-bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars are a rich, creamy, and irresistible dessert made with just five simple ingredients. With a soft peanut butter base and a smooth chocolate topping, they’re the perfect quick treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, packing lunches, or simply satisfying a sweet tooth, these bars come together in minutes—no oven required. Keep them chilled and enjoy a bite of chocolate-peanut butter bliss anytime you need a pick-me-up.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2 cup (113g) salted butter, melted

1 cup (120g) graham cracker crumbs (about 8 full sheets)

2 cups (240g) confectioners’ sugar

1 cup + 2 tablespoons (280g) creamy peanut butter, divided

1 cup (180g) semi-sweet chocolate chips

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Instructions

Line a Pan
Line an 8×8 or 9×9-inch square pan with parchment paper or foil.
Make the Base
In a bowl, mix the melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, and confectioners’ sugar. Stir in 1 cup of peanut butter until well combined. Press mixture evenly into the prepared pan.
Prepare the Topping
Melt chocolate chips and the remaining 2 tablespoons of peanut butter together (microwave or stovetop). Stir until smooth and pour over the peanut butter layer.
Chill
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm. Let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before slicing.
Serve & Store
Cut into squares and enjoy. Store in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.

Notes

Use a hot knife to slice cleanly.

Sprinkle sea salt or chopped nuts on top for added flair.

For a healthier version, use almond flour and natural peanut butter.

Nutrition

Calories: 270 kcal
Sugar: 21g
Sodium: 95mg
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 10mg