Name: Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips, divided; 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter; 1/2 cup powdered sugar

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I make these Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars when I want a rich, no-bake dessert that feels like a giant homemade candy bar. Creamy peanut butter is tucked between two smooth layers of chocolate, and the result is a simple treat that tastes indulgent without much effort.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips, divided

1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter

½ cup powdered sugar

Directions

I start by lining a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with nonstick spray.

I place 2 cups of chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave them in 30-second intervals, stirring after each one, until the chocolate is melted and smooth.

I spread the melted chocolate evenly across the bottom of the prepared pan. Then I let it harden slightly at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

In a mixing bowl, I beat together the peanut butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

I spread the peanut butter mixture evenly over the slightly hardened chocolate layer.

Next, I melt the remaining 2 cups of chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring until smooth.

I pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer and smooth the top with a spatula.

Finally, I refrigerate the bars or let them sit at room temperature until fully hardened. Once set, I slice them into squares or bars and serve.

Servings and timing

I get 9 servings from this recipe.

I need about 15 minutes of prep time, 0 minutes of cooking time, and 15 minutes total time. Each serving is approximately 741 kcal.

Variations

I sometimes switch things up by using milk chocolate or dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips. I also like adding a small pinch of sea salt to the peanut butter mixture for a sweeter-saltier balance. For a little crunch, I stir in crushed peanuts or crispy rice cereal. When I want a slightly softer filling, I use natural-style peanut butter only if it is well stirred, although I find creamy standard peanut butter gives the most reliable texture.

Storage/Reheating

I store these bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator so the layers stay firm and neat. They keep well for several days, which makes them great for making ahead. For longer storage, I freeze the bars in a sealed container with parchment between layers. I do not usually reheat them, since they are meant to be served chilled or at room temperature. When I want a softer bite, I simply let a bar sit out for a few minutes before eating.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter?

I can use natural peanut butter, but I find the texture can be a little less stable if it is too oily. I prefer creamy peanut butter for the smoothest filling and the cleanest layers.

How do I keep the chocolate from cracking when I slice the bars?

I let the bars sit at room temperature for a few minutes before slicing, and I use a sharp knife. This helps me get cleaner cuts without breaking the top chocolate layer too much.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

I can easily make these bars ahead because they store well in the refrigerator or freezer. That makes them a convenient dessert for parties, holidays, or busy weeks.

Do I have to refrigerate them?

I like refrigerating them because it helps the chocolate stay firm and makes the bars easier to slice and serve. I can leave them at room temperature for a short time, but I prefer chilled storage.

Can I use a different pan size?

I can, but the thickness of the layers will change. An 8×8-inch pan gives me thicker bars, while a larger pan gives me thinner ones, so I adjust based on the style I want.

Conclusion

I think these Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars are one of the easiest ways to make a rich and satisfying dessert with very little effort. I get all the flavor of a classic chocolate-peanut butter treat in a simple no-bake form, and I love how easy they are to customize, store, and serve.

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Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 9 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars are a rich, no-bake dessert with creamy peanut butter layered between smooth chocolate. They are simple to make and taste like a homemade candy bar.

Ingredients

4 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips, divided

1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter

½ cup powdered sugar

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Instructions

Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Melt 2 cups of chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
Spread the melted chocolate evenly in the prepared pan and let it set slightly.
In a bowl, mix peanut butter and powdered sugar until smooth.
Spread the peanut butter mixture evenly over the chocolate layer.
Melt the remaining 2 cups of chocolate chips in the microwave, stirring until smooth.
Pour and spread the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer.
Refrigerate or let sit until fully set, then slice into bars and serve.