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No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars

These no-bake peanut butter bars are simple, indulgent treats that come together without any oven. Made with a peanut butter and graham cracker crumb base topped with a glossy chocolate layer, they offer a satisfying crunch and rich, creamy flavor. The final bars have a firm texture with a crackling chocolate coating, perfect for quick snacking or sharing.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 2 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Microwave or double boiler
  • Spatula or spoon
  • 20cm (8-inch) square pan
  • Parchment paper

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1 cup natural peanut butter smooth or crunchy
  • 1 cup powdered sugar sifted
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil optional, for sheen

Instructions
 

  • Line your 20cm (8-inch) pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides for easy removal.
  • In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the melted butter and peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring until smooth and glossy with a fragrant nutty aroma.
  • Add the sifted powdered sugar and graham cracker crumbs to the peanut butter mixture. Mix thoroughly with a spatula until the mixture is thick, sticky, and well combined—this will take about a minute and should look slightly glossy and cohesive.
  • Press the peanut butter mixture evenly into the prepared pan, using the back of a spatula or your fingers to smooth the top and create a firm, flat surface. You should hear a satisfying resistance as you press, and the layer will feel dense and sticky.
  • In a separate bowl, melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil together using short bursts in the microwave, stirring well after each to achieve a shiny, smooth chocolate sauce with a rich aroma. This should take about 1 minute in total.
  • Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon. You want a smooth, glossy surface that crackles slightly as you spread, signaling a perfect coating.
  • Place the pan in the fridge and chill for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate is firm and the bars are set. For quicker results, freeze for about 1 hour.
  • Once chilled and firm, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Use a sharp knife to cut into 12 even squares, pressing down firmly for clean edges.
  • If desired, melt a little extra chocolate and drizzle over the tops of the bars for an extra decorative touch. Allow the drizzle to set slightly before serving.
  • Enjoy these rich, crunchy, and decadent bars now or store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Bring to room temperature briefly before serving for the best texture and flavor.