Make rich, creamy peanut butter bars without turning on your oven. This simple recipe delivers a decadent, no-bake dessert with a smooth chocolate topping, perfect for quick cravings or potlucks.
Author:emilyharrison
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:0 min
Total Time:2 hr 15 min
Yield:16 servings 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:No Bake
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 cups creamy peanut butter
2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/4 cup creamy peanut butter (for topping)
1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for smooth topping)
Instructions
Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal.
In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, 2 cups of creamy peanut butter, sifted powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until the base is completely smooth and uniform.
Press the peanut butter mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Place the pan in the freezer while you prepare the topping.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips, 1/4 cup of creamy peanut butter, and coconut oil (if using). Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
Pour the chocolate mixture over the chilled peanut butter layer. Spread it quickly and evenly to cover the entire surface.
Return the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate topping is firm.
Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars from the pan. Cut into 16 squares before serving.
Notes
For a texture similar to Lunch Lady Bars, you can press a thin layer of crushed graham crackers into the bottom before adding the peanut butter mixture.
If you prefer a firmer topping, use only chocolate chips and skip the extra peanut butter and coconut oil in the topping layer.
Store leftover peanut butter bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.