No-Bake Reese's Peanut Butter Bars

Name: No-Bake Reese's Peanut Butter Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 16 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 2 tbsp unsalted butter

Highlighted under: Sugar & Spice Desserts

I absolutely love making No-Bake Reese's Peanut Butter Bars because they are incredibly simple and satisfyingly delicious. With just a handful of ingredients, I can whip up these treats in under an hour. Every time I serve them, the combination of sweet chocolate and creamy peanut butter never fails to impress my family and friends. Plus, they require no oven, making them perfect for hot summer days or last-minute gatherings. Trust me, once you try these bars, they’ll become a staple in your dessert rotation!

Created by

Lina

Last updated on 2026-01-07T22:01:31.733Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of No-Bake Reese's Peanut Butter Bars, I knew I had to try making them as a quick dessert option. My goal was to recreate the original candy bar experience but enhance it with a homemade touch. After several attempts, I found that using graham cracker crumbs provided the perfect ratio of crunch to creaminess, making these bars irresistible.

I also learned that letting the bars chill longer than I originally thought actually improves their texture. Trust me, being patient while they set in the fridge makes all the difference in achieving that perfect slice, and my friends can never get enough!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Decadent layers of chocolate and peanut butter for the ultimate indulgence
Quick and easy preparation without the need for baking
Perfect for parties, potlucks, or a sweet treat at home

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and graham cracker crumbs creates a rich, flavorful base for these bars. The peanut butter provides a nutty depth, while the powdered sugar sweetens and helps bind the mixture. The graham cracker crumbs give the bars a necessary structure, ensuring they hold their shape once chilled. If you prefer a crunchier texture, consider using crunchy peanut butter or adding chopped nuts to the mixture.

Chocolate play a pivotal role in this recipe, not only adding sweetness but also a beautiful contrast to the creamy peanut butter layer. Semi-sweet chocolate is ideal here, as it strikes the perfect balance between sweet and rich. If you're looking for a lower-sugar option, you can substitute with dark chocolate. Remember to monitor the melting process closely in the microwave to avoid burning; stir frequently until the chocolate is glossy and smooth.

Tips for Perfect Bars

When pressing the peanut butter mixture into the pan, use a spatula or clean hands for an even, smooth surface. This step is crucial; uneven layers can affect the final look and texture of the bars. A good tip is to dampen your hands slightly to prevent sticking while pressing. If you notice any air bubbles after pouring the chocolate on top, lightly tapping the pan on the countertop helps remove them, leading to a nicer finish.

After chilling, allow the bars to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before slicing. This makes cutting easier and results in cleaner edges. A sharp knife is also essential; a dull one can crush the bars instead of slicing through them neatly. If you want to store these bars, place them in an airtight container between layers of parchment paper; they stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to a week and can also be frozen for longer storage.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients before you start:

For the Peanut Butter Layer

1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs

For the Chocolate Topping

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 tbsp unsalted butter

Make sure to use quality ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your No-Bake Reese's Peanut Butter Bars:

Prepare the Peanut Butter Layer

In a mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and graham cracker crumbs. Mix until well blended and smooth.

Press into the Pan

Line an 8x8-inch pan with parchment paper. Pour the peanut butter mixture into the pan and press it down firmly to create an even layer.

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and unsalted butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and smooth.

Top with Chocolate

Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Tap the pan gently on the countertop to remove any air bubbles.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the bars for at least 45 minutes or until set. Once set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper, slice, and enjoy!

These bars are best stored in the refrigerator to maintain their firmness.

Pro Tips

For added texture, consider mixing in chopped peanuts or a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the chocolate layer.

Creative Variations

These No-Bake Reese's Peanut Butter Bars can easily be customized to suit your taste. For a hint of saltiness, sprinkle sea salt on top of the chocolate layer before it sets. Alternatively, you can add a layer of crushed pretzels for a salty crunch that complements the sweet flavors perfectly. If you’re a fan of coconut, consider incorporating shredded coconut into the peanut butter mixture for a tropical twist.

For those looking to make these bars a bit healthier, try swapping out half of the powdered sugar for honey or maple syrup. This substitution will add a unique flavor while still keeping the structure intact. Keep in mind that using more liquid sweeteners might result in a slightly softer texture, so adjust the graham cracker crumbs accordingly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your chocolate isn't melting smoothly, heat it in smaller increments and ensure your bowl is dry, as any moisture can cause the chocolate to seize. Additionally, if you are using a lower-quality chocolate or chocolate chips, you may end up with a grainy texture; opt for high-quality ingredients for the best results.

In some cases, if the peanut butter layer is too crumbly, it may not have enough moisture. You can fix this by adding a bit more peanut butter until the desired consistency is reached. Conversely, if the mixture is too sticky, add more graham cracker crumbs to achieve the right texture for easy handling.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes! Natural peanut butter works, but it may result in a slightly different texture.

→ How long can these bars be stored?

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

→ Can I make this vegan?

Absolutely! Use dairy-free chocolate chips and ensure your graham crackers are vegan.

→ Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, they freeze well! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container.