Peanut Butter Bars
These Peanut Butter Bars are the ultimate treat for any peanut butter lover. This no-bake dessert combines rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter in a simple yet delicious way. Perfect for parties, holidays, or just a sweet snack at home, these bars are sure to please everyone. With their easy preparation and delightful taste, they stand out as a favorite among desserts.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes only 10 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for last-minute cravings or gatherings.
- No Baking Required: Just mix, spread, and chill! No need to turn on the oven for these delicious bars.
- Rich Flavor Combination: The blend of chocolate and peanut butter creates an irresistible taste that appeals to all ages.
- Customizable Topping Options: Add festive sprinkles or your favorite nuts for a personal touch and extra crunch.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or a casual get-together, these bars fit right in.
Tools and Preparation
To make these Peanut Butter Bars, you’ll need some essential tools that will help ensure your success in the kitchen.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- 8×8” or 9×9 baking dish
- Parchment paper
- Microwave-safe bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric hand mixer: Helps achieve a smooth mixture quickly and easily without much effort.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes it easy to lift the bars out of the dish once set.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your Peanut Butter Bars:
- 2 cups creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened; 1 stick)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 4-5 cups powdered sugar (start with 4 cups and add more if too wet)
- 1 ½ cups chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons festive sprinkles (optional)
How to Make Peanut Butter Bars
Step 1: Prepare Your Dish
Line an 8×8” or 9×9 dish with parchment paper.
Step 2: Combine Peanut Butter and Butter
In a large bowl, add the creamy peanut butter and softened unsalted butter. Blend on medium speed with an electric hand mixer until smooth. You can also use a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment.
Step 3: Mix in Vanilla and Salt
Add the vanilla extract and salt, then blend until thoroughly combined.
Step 4: Add Powdered Sugar Gradually
Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed between each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Start with 4 cups but may require more if too wet.
Step 5: Form the Dough
Mix until just incorporated; the dough should look like large crumbles. Pour into the prepared pan, pressing down into an even layer. For an extra smooth top, place parchment paper over it before pressing down.
Step 6: Melt Chocolate Chips
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat for 30 seconds at a time, stirring in between until melted and smooth.
Step 7: Spread Chocolate Over Bars
Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter mixture and spread evenly across the top.
Step 8: Add Sprinkles (Optional)
While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle with festive toppings if desired.
Step 9: Chill to Set
Place in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes to allow everything to set properly.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy!
Once set, enjoy your Peanut Butter Bars chilled or at room temperature!
How to Serve Peanut Butter Bars
Peanut Butter Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these bars cater to every occasion.
For a Sweet Snack
- With Coffee: Pair your Peanut Butter Bars with a hot cup of coffee for a perfect afternoon snack.
- On-the-Go: Cut them into smaller squares and pack them for a quick and satisfying snack during busy days.
As a Dessert
- With Ice Cream: Serve alongside vanilla ice cream for a rich and creamy dessert experience.
- Drizzled with Caramel: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce on top for an extra layer of sweetness.
For Special Occasions
- At Parties: Cut them into bite-sized pieces for easy serving at gatherings or celebrations.
- Gift Wrap: Package the bars in decorative boxes for homemade gifts during holidays or special events.
With Fruit
- Sliced Bananas: Place banana slices on top of the bars for added flavor and nutrition.
- Fresh Berries: Serve with strawberries or raspberries on the side to complement the peanut butter taste.
How to Perfect Peanut Butter Bars
These Peanut Butter Bars are simple, but with a few tips, you can make them even better.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your peanut butter and butter are at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Adjust Powdered Sugar Gradually: Start with 4 cups of powdered sugar, adding more as needed to achieve the right consistency.
- Smooth the Top: For an extra smooth finish, use parchment paper to press down the mixture evenly in the pan.
- Chill Before Cutting: Allow the bars to chill completely before cutting them; this helps maintain their shape.
- Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add nuts, coconut flakes, or mini chocolate chips on top for added texture and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Bars
Pairing side dishes with your Peanut Butter Bars can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some suggestions:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the bars.
- Chocolate Milkshake: The creamy texture of a milkshake complements the rich flavors of peanut butter perfectly.
- Nutty Granola: Serve crunchy granola on the side for added texture; it pairs well with the chewy bars.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with fruits and granola for a refreshing contrast to the richness of Peanut Butter Bars.
- Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese to provide a savory option alongside your sweet treat.
- Coffee Cake: A slice of coffee cake works beautifully as a side dish, balancing sweetness with its subtle flavors.
- Hot Chocolate: Warm up chilly evenings by pairing these bars with rich hot chocolate topped with whipped cream.
- Spiced Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai tea enhance the nutty flavors of your dessert beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Peanut Butter Bars, a few common mistakes can hinder your results. Here are some tips to ensure your bars turn out perfectly.
- Using the wrong type of peanut butter: Stick with creamy peanut butter for the best texture. Chunky peanut butter may not bind well and could make the bars crumbly.
- Not measuring powdered sugar correctly: Start with 4 cups, but adjust based on consistency. If you add too much, it can make the bars overly sweet and dry.
- Skipping refrigeration time: Allowing bars to set in the fridge is crucial for proper texture. Skipping this step might result in a gooey mess instead of firm bars.
- Overheating chocolate: Melt your chocolate chips slowly in intervals to avoid burning them. Overheated chocolate can seize up and ruin your topping.
- Pressing dough too hard: When pressing down the dough, use gentle pressure to avoid compacting it too much. This helps maintain a light texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your Peanut Butter Bars in an airtight container.
- They can last up to one week in the refrigerator.
Freezing Peanut Butter Bars
- Wrap the bars tightly with plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
- Frozen Peanut Butter Bars can last up to three months.
Reheating Peanut Butter Bars
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place bars on a baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual bars for about 15-20 seconds until just warm. Be careful not to overheat.
- Stovetop: Place in a non-stick skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about making Peanut Butter Bars.
How do I make my Peanut Butter Bars firmer?
To achieve firmer bars, ensure you use enough powdered sugar and chill them longer in the refrigerator before serving.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes, but using creamy peanut butter will yield smoother texture and help the bars hold together better.
How long do Peanut Butter Bars last?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, they can last up to one week. In the freezer, they can last for three months.
What toppings can I add to my Peanut Butter Bars?
You can customize your bars with toppings like chopped nuts, drizzled caramel, or different kinds of sprinkles for added flavor and decoration.
Are these Peanut Butter Bars gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any flour or gluten-containing ingredients.
Final Thoughts
These Peanut Butter Bars are not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying for any peanut butter lover. Their simple ingredients allow for many customization options, from adding nuts to different toppings. Try making them for your next gathering or just as a sweet treat at home!
Peanut Butter Bars
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the rich, creamy delight of Peanut Butter Bars—an irresistible no-bake dessert perfect for any occasion. This simple recipe combines smooth peanut butter and decadent chocolate to create bars that are both satisfying and easy to prepare. In just 10 minutes, you can whip up these delicious treats that are sure to please everyone from kids to adults. Ideal for parties, holidays, or a sweet snack at home, these bars can be customized with festive toppings or enjoyed as-is. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this delightful dessert that brings comfort and joy with every bite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 4–5 cups powdered sugar
- 1 ½ cups chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil
- Optional: 2 tablespoons festive sprinkles
Instructions
- Line an 8×8” or 9×9" baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, blend creamy peanut butter and softened butter until smooth.
- Mix in vanilla extract and salt until combined.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until incorporated.
- Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan.
- Melt chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring until smooth.
- Pour melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer and spread evenly.
- Add sprinkles if desired while the chocolate is still wet.
- Chill in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes until set.
- Cut into squares and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (42g)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 105mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
