Description
These No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars are a quick and easy treat combining creamy peanut butter and a smooth chocolate topping, perfect for a delicious dessert or snack. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe creates rich, sweet bars that set in the refrigerator without any baking required.
Ingredients
Scale
Base
- 2 cups creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (1 stick)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 4-5 cups powdered sugar (start with 4 cups and add more if too wet)
Topping
- 1 ½ cups chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons festive sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Your Pan
Line an 8×8” or 9×9” dish with parchment paper and set aside to prevent sticking and make for easy removal of the bars. - Mix the Peanut Butter and Butter
In a large bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and softened unsalted butter. Use an electric hand mixer or stand mixer with paddle attachment on medium speed to blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. - Add Vanilla and Salt
Add the vanilla extract and salt to the peanut butter mixture, blending again to ensure everything is fully incorporated. - Incorporate the Powdered Sugar
Gradually add the powdered sugar to the mixture, mixing on low speed between additions. Scrape down the sides of the bowl periodically. Start with 4 cups of powdered sugar, adding more if needed until the dough is firm but still slightly crumbly. - Form the Base
Once the sugar is fully mixed and the dough has a crumb-like texture, press the mixture into the prepared pan into an even layer. For a smooth top, place parchment or wax paper over the dough and press firmly until flat. - Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat in the microwave for 30 seconds, stir, then heat for two additional 30-second intervals, stirring between each until fully melted and smooth. - Top with Chocolate
Pour the melted chocolate evenly over the peanut butter base, spreading it smoothly with a spatula to cover the entire surface. - Add the Sprinkles
While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle the festive sprinkles evenly over the top for a decorative touch. - Chill and Set
Place the pan in the refrigerator for 20 minutes to allow the chocolate topping to completely set and the bars to firm up. - Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the refrigerator, slice into bars, and serve chilled or at room temperature for a decadent, no-bake treat.
Notes
- You can substitute natural peanut butter but the texture may be slightly different.
- If bars are too soft, add more powdered sugar to the base mixture to firm it up.
- Use any type of chocolate chips you prefer—milk, dark, or semi-sweet.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- For nut-free option, consider using sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.
