Reese’s Peanut Butter No-Bake Bars

Rich, fudgy, and unbelievably creamy, these Reese’s Peanut Butter No-Bake Bars taste exactly like a giant homemade peanut butter cup no oven required! With a velvety peanut butter base and a smooth chocolate topping, they’re the perfect quick dessert for holidays, parties, or anytime your sweet tooth demands something amazing right now.

Ingredients

Peanut Butter Layer:

• 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (optional but classic for texture)

Chocolate Layer:

• 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips (milk or semi-sweet)
• 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter

Instructions

1. Prepare the base:
   In a large bowl, mix melted butter, peanut butter, powdered sugar, and graham cracker crumbs (if using) until smooth, thick, and dough-like.
2. Press into pan:
   Line an 8×8 or 9×9 baking dish with parchment paper. Press the peanut butter mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom to form a solid base.
3. Make the chocolate topping:
   In the microwave, melt chocolate chips and 1/4 cup peanut butter in 20–30 second intervals, stirring until smooth and glossy.
4. Cover the base:
   Pour the warm chocolate mixture over the peanut butter layer and spread evenly with a spatula.
5. Chill:
   Refrigerate for 1–2 hours, or until the bars are completely set and firm enough to slice cleanly.
6. Serve:
   Lift out of the pan using parchment, slice into bars, and enjoy!

Variation

• Crunchy Peanut Bars: Sprinkle crushed peanuts, toffee bits, or pretzels on top before chilling for an extra layer of texture.
• Dark Chocolate Dream: Use dark chocolate chips for a deeper, richer flavor that pairs beautifully with sweet peanut butter.
• Cookie Crust Twist: Replace graham crumbs with crushed Oreos, Biscoff, or vanilla wafers for fun flavor variations.
• Salted Top: Add a pinch of flaky sea salt on the warm chocolate layer to balance sweetness and add gourmet flair.

Cooking Notes

• For a smooth base, make sure the melted butter is fully blended with the powdered sugar.
• If your mixture feels too dry, add 1–2 extra tablespoons of peanut butter. If it’s too soft, add a bit more graham crumbs.
• Use parchment paper with overhangs so the bars lift out easily and neatly.

Serving Suggestions

• Party Bars: Cut into mini squares for potlucks, cookie boxes, or sweet trays they disappear fast!
• Cold Treat: Serve straight from the fridge for the classic peanut butter cup texture.
• Drizzle Magic: Before chilling, drizzle melted white chocolate or caramel over the top for a festive finish.
• A La Mode: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an effortless dessert plate.

Tips

• Let the bars sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before slicing for clean, even cuts.
• Warm your knife under hot water and wipe dry between cuts for perfect edges.
• Store bars in the fridge for up to 1 week; they stay firm and delicious.
• These bars freeze beautifully just layer with parchment and freeze up to 3 months.

Prep Time:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Chill Time: 1–2 hours
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes – 2 hours 10 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Bar)

• Calories: 240
• Protein: 4 g
• Sodium: 95 mg

Frequently Asked Questions

1- Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but make sure it’s well-stirred. Natural PB can make the bars softer, so add extra graham crumbs if needed.

2- Can I make these without graham cracker crumbs?
Absolutely! The bars will be smoother and more fudge-like.

3- Can I double the recipe?
Yes use a 9×13 pan for perfect thickness.

4- Can I use almond or cashew butter instead?
Yes! The texture stays almost the same just choose a creamy version with no separation.

Conclusion

These Reese’s Peanut Butter No-Bake Bars are everything you love about peanut butter cups creamy, chocolatey, sweet, and totally irresistible made in minutes with zero baking. Perfect for busy days, holidays, or anytime you need a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing dessert. Enjoy every decadent bite!

Print