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No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars

These no-bake peanut butter bars are simple, nostalgic treats that come together with minimal effort. Made with a creamy peanut butter base topped with melted chocolate, they have a rich, chewy texture with a satisfying crunch from the graham cracker crumbs. Perfect for quick cravings, they set beautifully in the fridge for a glossy, firm finish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 2 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup natural peanut butter unsweetened, creamy
  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs finely crushed
  • 1 cup chocolate chips semi-sweet or dark
  • 1 tablespoon butter melted
  • Pinch salt

Equipment

  • 20cm (8-inch) square pan
  • Spatula
  • Saucepan
  • Parchment paper

Method
 

  1. Line your square pan with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang for easy lifting later.
  2. In a saucepan over low heat, gently warm the peanut butter and honey, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth, fragrant, and just starting to bubble, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the graham cracker crumbs along with a pinch of salt until everything is well combined and sticky.
  4. Press the peanut butter mixture evenly into the prepared pan using a spatula or your fingers, pressing firmly to create a compact, even layer about an inch thick.
  5. In the same saucepan, melt the chocolate chips over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth and glossy. If the chocolate seizes, add a teaspoon of butter or warm milk to loosen it.
  6. Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Gently tap the pan on the counter to settle the chocolate and smooth out the surface.
  7. Place the pan in the fridge or freezer and chill for at least 2 hours until the chocolate is firm and the bars are completely set.
  8. Once set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang and cut into squares with a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between cuts for neat edges.
  9. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze, thawing briefly before enjoying.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use high-quality chocolate. Feel free to add chopped nuts or dried fruit into the peanut butter layer for extra texture. Keep the bars chilled for best appearance and texture.