If you’re a fan of the sweet and salty combination, then these Peanut Butter Cup Bars will quickly become your new go-to dessert. Imagine a creamy peanut butter filling sandwiched between a buttery graham cracker crust and topped off with a rich layer of chocolate. They’re easy to make and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, preparing a treat for a bake sale, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, these bars have got you covered.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

These Peanut Butter Cup Bars are not only delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare. The no-bake aspect makes them a perfect choice for those hot summer days when you want to avoid turning on the oven. The balance of textures—from the crunch of the graham cracker crust to the creaminess of the peanut butter filling and the smooth chocolate topping—creates a delightful experience in every bite. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, making them a convenient treat for any occasion.

The Ingredient Lineup

113.5g unsalted butter – This forms the base of your graham cracker crust, adding richness and flavor.
210g powdered sugar – For sweetness, this ingredient helps create a smooth peanut butter filling.
258g smooth peanut butter – The star of the show! Choose a high-quality peanut butter for the best flavor.
63g graham cracker crumbs – These crumbs give the crust a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness.
56.75g unsalted butter – Additional butter for the filling, ensuring it holds together beautifully.
90g milk chocolate chips or chopped chocolate – This adds the perfect finishing touch, melting into a luscious layer on top.

Tools of the Trade

Mixing bowls – For combining your ingredients easily.
9×9-inch baking pan – The ideal size for these bars, allowing for even cutting.
Rubber spatula – Great for ensuring every last bit of peanut butter filling makes it into the pan.
Microwave-safe bowl – For melting the chocolate smoothly.
Refrigerator – Essential for setting the bars properly.

Mastering Peanut Butter Cup Bars: How-To

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by melting 113.5g of unsalted butter in a mixing bowl. Once melted, stir in the 63g of graham cracker crumbs and combine until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking pan to form an even layer.

Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Filling

In a separate bowl, combine 258g of smooth peanut butter and 56.75g of unsalted butter. Mix until smooth. Gradually add in the 210g of powdered sugar, stirring until fully incorporated and creamy. Once combined, spread the peanut butter filling over the crust evenly.

Step 3: Melt the Chocolate

Using a microwave-safe bowl, heat 90g of milk chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate.

Step 4: Assemble the Bars

Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer and spread it evenly with a spatula. Tap the pan gently on the countertop to help the chocolate settle.

Step 5: Chill and Set

Cover the baking pan with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate has fully set.

Fit It to Your Goals

Nut-Free Option: Substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.
Lower Sugar: Use a sugar substitute in place of powdered sugar to reduce the sweetness.
Gluten-Free: Ensure your graham cracker crumbs are gluten-free for a suitable alternative.
Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter and vegan chocolate chips to create a vegan treat.

What Not to Do

Don’t skip the chilling step! This is crucial for the bars to hold their shape.
Avoid using natural peanut butter, as it may not set properly and could lead to a runny filling.
Don’t rush the melting of the chocolate; heat it slowly to prevent burning.
Resist the temptation to replace the graham cracker crumbs with other types of crumbs, as this may alter the texture.

Make-Ahead & Storage

These Peanut Butter Cup Bars are perfect for make-ahead treats. You can assemble them up to two days before you plan to serve them. Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. If you want to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just slice them into bars before freezing, and layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Common Qs About Peanut Butter Cup Bars

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?

Yes, crunchy peanut butter can add a delightful texture, but it may change the consistency of the filling slightly.

How should I cut the bars for serving?

Using a sharp knife, cut the bars into squares or rectangles. For cleaner cuts, you can warm the knife under hot water and wipe it dry before cutting.

Can I substitute the chocolate chips with white chocolate?

Absolutely! White chocolate will provide a different flavor but will still work beautifully as a topping.

What if my chocolate doesn’t melt smoothly?

If your chocolate is grainy, it may have been overheated. Try adding a small amount of vegetable oil to help smooth it out, or start over with a new batch.

Let’s Eat

These Peanut Butter Cup Bars are simply irresistible! Once they have chilled and set, cut them into squares and serve them to your eager guests. Watch their faces light up with joy as they take their first bite. The rich peanut butter flavor combined with the chocolate topping creates a heavenly treat that is bound to please any crowd. Whether enjoyed as an afternoon snack or as a dessert after dinner, these bars are a must-try for any peanut butter lover.

Indulge in the perfect balance of sweet and salty with these Peanut Butter Cup Bars—you won’t regret it!