Description
These No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookie Bars are a quick and delicious treat that combines rich chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and crunchy cookie pieces into an easy, no-bake dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Chocolate Topping
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
Instructions
- Prepare the base: In a large bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, and brown sugar. Stir these dry ingredients together until well mixed.
- Add wet ingredients: Pour in the melted butter, creamy peanut butter, and vanilla extract into the dry mixture. Stir everything thoroughly until you achieve an even, crumbly dough-like consistency.
- Press base into pan: Line an 8×8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Press the peanut butter cookie mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the pan.
- Prepare the chocolate topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and 2 tablespoons of peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
- Spread chocolate layer: Pour the melted chocolate and peanut butter mixture over the pressed cookie base. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the top.
- Chill to set: Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate is firm and the bars are set.
- Serve and store: Once set, cut into bars and serve. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Notes
- For a crunchier texture, consider folding in some chopped peanuts into the base mixture.
- You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark or milk chocolate according to taste preference.
- If you want a nuttier flavor, try using natural peanut butter but expect a slightly looser texture.
- Let bars sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for easier slicing.
- These bars can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in fridge before serving.
