Imagine sinking your teeth into a decadent bar that combines the rich, creamy smoothness of peanut butter with a luxurious chocolate layer - all without turning on your oven! These Creamy Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars are the ultimate dessert dream that will satisfy your sweet tooth and impress everyone from kids to sophisticated dessert lovers. In just 15 minutes of prep time, you can create a treat that looks like it came straight from a gourmet bakery, but with the ease of home cooking.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later. This will help prevent sticking and make cutting the bars easier.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and graham cracker crumbs. Mix thoroughly until a smooth, uniform dough forms. The mixture should be firm and hold together when pressed.
- Press the peanut butter mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan, creating a compact and level base. Use the back of a spoon or a spatula to ensure an even surface.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and butter together. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to prevent burning. Continue until the chocolate is completely smooth and glossy.
- Pour the melted chocolate evenly over the peanut butter layer, using a spatula to spread it to the edges and create a smooth top.
- Refrigerate the bars for about 1 hour, or until the chocolate has fully set and hardened. This will make cutting and serving easier.
- Once set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Place on a cutting board and slice into 12 equal rectangular bars.
- Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Allow to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for the best texture.
Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
- For a more uniform chocolate layer, use high-quality chocolate chips and melt them slowly.
- Press the peanut butter mixture firmly to create a compact base that holds together well.
- Chill the bars completely before cutting for clean, precise slices.
- For extra flavor, consider using dark chocolate chips or adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top.
- If the mixture seems too dry, add a little melted butter to help bind the ingredients.
- Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean cuts when serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 284kcal
Carbohydrates: 27g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 5mg
