Description
Delight in these rich and indulgent Chocolate Peanut Butter Dream Bars featuring a crunchy graham cracker crust, a creamy peanut butter center, and a smooth chocolate topping. Perfectly balanced in sweetness and texture, these no-bake bars come together quickly and are ideal for satisfying any sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Peanut Butter Layer
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Chocolate Layer
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar thoroughly.
- Add Melted Butter: Stir in the melted butter until the mixture has the texture of wet sand and is evenly combined.
- Form the Crust: Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch square baking pan (or an 8×8-inch pan for thicker bars) to create an even layer.
- Chill the Crust: Refrigerate the pan to set the crust while preparing the next layer.
- Make the Peanut Butter Layer: In a large bowl, beat the peanut butter, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Spread Peanut Butter Layer: Evenly spread the peanut butter mixture over the chilled crust and smooth it out with a spatula.
- Melt Chocolate and Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and butter in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until fully melted and smooth.
- Apply Chocolate Layer: Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer and spread evenly with a spatula.
- Chill Bars: Refrigerate the assembled bars for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate topping is set and the bars are firm.
- Serve: Cut into squares and enjoy these delicious bars that are perfect for sharing or a sweet treat anytime.
Notes
- Use an 8×8-inch pan if you prefer thicker bars.
- Ensure the peanut butter and butter are softened to achieve a creamy texture.
- Keep bars refrigerated to maintain firmness, especially before serving.
- You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark or milk chocolate based on preference.
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
