Best Peanut Butter Bars
You won’t see me use the word “BEST” in too many recipes, because a lot of people have great variations of a lot of dishes. However, without hesitation, I can say these are THE BEST peanut butter bars in existence!
There. I said it. And it feels good to get that out there…because it’s so true! They are the best ever!
This peanut butter bars recipe has been a huge family favorite for many years. Simply put, they are completely addicting, and you will want to eat the entire pan by yourself. Consider that my warning 🙂
If I’m ever making these for a party, I always have to make an extra pan for my family, or else I’m in trouble! I’ve tried quite a few peanut butter bars in my day, and none compare to these.
First of all, they are thick, chewy, and soft. They’re in the same family as my Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars, but with a peanut butter twist. I love the taste and texture that the oats add.
They have the perfect ratio of chocolate and peanut butter, without being overwhelmingly sweet.
The dough for the bars has 1/2 cup of peanut butter in it. Once they’re baked and cooled, you spread a very thin layer of creamy peanut butter over them.
Then, you make a warm chocolate frosting and pour it over the top. YUM!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These peanut butter bars are everything you need in a sweet treat. They’re easy to make, deliciously indulgent, and perfect for any occasion. The combination of smooth peanut butter and rich chocolate will satisfy any craving!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Microwave or stove
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, melted
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs, finely crushed
- 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 1 cup peanut butter + 4 tablespoons peanut butter
- 1½ cups semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
Instructions
- Combine melted butter, finely ground graham cracker crumbs, confectioners’ sugar, and 1 cup peanut butter. Spread the mixture evenly in a 9×13 inch pan.
- In the microwave or over the stove, melt 4 tablespoons of peanut butter and chocolate chips until smooth. If melting in the microwave, stir every 30 seconds to prevent burning. Spread evenly on top of the peanut butter layer.
- Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving to allow the bars to set. Store any leftover bars in the fridge.
Tips for Success
For best results, ensure your graham cracker crumbs are finely crushed. This will help the bars hold together better. Also, be sure to allow the bars to set in the refrigerator for the full hour to achieve the perfect texture.
Additional Tips or Variations
Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate chips, such as dark chocolate or white chocolate, to change the flavor profile. You can also add chopped nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an extra crunch.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Each serving is packed with rich peanut butter and chocolate flavors, offering a delicious treat. Please note that these bars are indulgent, so enjoy them in moderation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy? Yes, crunchy peanut butter can add a nice texture to the bars.
How long do these bars last? Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, they can last up to a week.
Can I freeze these peanut butter bars? Absolutely! Wrap them tightly and store in the freezer for up to three months.
Conclusion
These Best Peanut Butter Bars are a must-try for any dessert lover. With their perfect blend of flavors and textures, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household. Give them a try and let me know how they turn out. I’d love to hear your thoughts and any tweaks you might have made!
