Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, melted
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
- 1 (11 oz) package of milk chocolate chips (semi-sweet preferred)
Instructions
- Step 1: Make the Peanut Butter Mixture
- In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, powdered sugar, peanut butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Step 2: Press into Pan
- Pour the peanut butter mixture evenly into a 9×13-inch pan. Press firmly with your hands or the back of a spoon to create a smooth, even base.
- Step 3: Melt the Chocolate
- Place the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Melt at 50% power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
- Step 4: Add the Chocolate Topping
- Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer in the pan. Spread evenly with a spatula to cover all of the peanut butter mixture.
- Step 5: Refrigerate
- Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least one hour, or until the chocolate is set and firm to the touch.
- Step 6: Serve
- Once the chocolate has set, remove the pan from the refrigerator. Cut into bars and serve. Enjoy the decadent, creamy texture of these no-bake bars!
Variation:
Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the melted chocolate before it sets for a delightful sweet and salty flavor contrast.
Notes
Make sure the peanut butter layer is firmly pressed into the pan to prevent the bars from crumbling when cut.
Serving Suggestions:
These bars are perfect as a snack for parties or potlucks. They’re also great for packing in lunchboxes or as a sweet treat after dinner.
Tips:
- Chocolate Choices: You can use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate for a richer, less sweet topping.
- Handling Sticky Ingredients: Lightly grease your spoon or measuring cups when dealing with sticky ingredients like peanut butter to make handling easier.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (plus 1 hour for chilling)
Nutrition
- Calories: Approx. 300 per bar
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Protein: 4 g