When you’re craving something sweet, rich, and satisfying but don’t want to turn on the oven, these No-Bake Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars are the ultimate dessert solution.
They combine the irresistible duo of peanut butter and chocolate with a buttery, crumbly base — all made in minutes and chilled to perfection. Perfect for busy days, family gatherings, or late-night dessert cravings, this recipe is both simple and indulgent.
Ingredients
Makes about 16 bars
For the Base Layer:
- 1 cup (250g) creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups (200g) powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs
For the Chocolate Layer:
- 1 1/4 cups (225g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup (65g) creamy peanut butter
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Chilling time: 2 hours
- Total time: About 2 hours, 15 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
- In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter and peanut butter.
- Stir until smooth, then mix in powdered sugar and graham cracker crumbs.
- Blend until a thick, slightly crumbly dough forms.
Step 2: Form the Base Layer
- Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper.
- Press the peanut butter mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan using a spatula or your hands.
Step 3: Make the Chocolate Topping
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips and peanut butter together in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.
- Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the base and spread evenly.
Step 4: Chill
- Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours or until fully set.
Step 5: Serve
- Once firm, lift the parchment paper to remove the slab from the pan.
- Slice into squares or bars and enjoy chilled.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled with a glass of cold milk or coffee for a balanced treat.
- Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before chilling for a sweet-salty flavor.
- For extra texture, mix chopped peanuts into the base layer.
- Pair with fresh fruit slices for a lighter dessert contrast.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 bar) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 245 |
| Protein | 5 grams |
| Total Fat | 16 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 6 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 22 grams |
| Sugars | 18 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sodium | 120 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Peanut butter adds healthy fats and plant-based protein.
- Dark chocolate (if used) boosts antioxidants and reduces added sugar.
- No baking preserves nutrients and makes this treat quick and hassle-free.
Tips for Perfect No-Bake Bars
- Use natural peanut butter (with minimal ingredients) for a cleaner flavor.
- Substitute graham crackers with digestive biscuits or gluten-free cookies.
- For a crunchier texture, add crushed pretzels or rice cereal to the base.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 2 months.
Variations to Try
- Vegan Option: Use dairy-free chocolate chips and vegan butter.
- Nut-Free Option: Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini.
- Coconut Twist: Add shredded coconut to the base layer for tropical sweetness.
- Mocha Bars: Stir in 1 teaspoon instant coffee granules into the chocolate layer for a subtle coffee flavor.
These No-Bake Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars are the perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and chocolatey goodness — all without turning on the oven. Whether you’re making them for a potluck, dessert night, or meal prep snack, they deliver unbeatable flavor and simplicity.
With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a dessert that satisfies every craving and keeps everyone coming back for more.