Peanut Butter Bars
These Peanut Butter Bars are the perfect treat for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to casual family snacks. Combining creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate, this no-bake dessert is as simple to make as it is delicious. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these bars that will satisfy any sweet tooth. They are great for sharing and can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these bars ready in no time.
- No-Bake Delight: You won’t need to turn on your oven, making this recipe ideal for hot days or kids in the kitchen.
- Versatile Flavor: The combination of peanut butter and chocolate appeals to both kids and adults alike.
- Perfect for Sharing: Cut them into bite-sized pieces and bring them to parties or gatherings.
- Customizable Toppings: Add sprinkles, nuts, or even drizzle more chocolate on top for a personal touch.
Tools and Preparation
To create these delightful Peanut Butter Bars, you’ll need some essential tools that will make the process smoother. Having the right equipment ensures that your bars come out perfectly every time.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
- Mixing bowl
- Parchment paper
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer: This tool blends the ingredients quickly and evenly, ensuring a smooth mixture.
- Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to mix all ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
- Parchment paper: Lining your dish with parchment paper helps remove the bars easily once they set.
- Microwave-safe bowl: Ideal for melting chocolate; it allows precise heating without burning.
Ingredients
These Peanut Butter Bars are made with simple yet flavorful ingredients:
- 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)
- 1 ½ cups chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons festive sprinkles (optional)
How to Make Peanut Butter Bars
Step 1: Prepare Your Dish
Line an 8×8” or 9×9 dish with parchment paper. This will help you lift the bars out easily after they set.
Step 2: Mix Peanut Butter and Butter
In a large bowl, add the creamy peanut butter and softened butter. Blend on medium speed with an electric hand mixer until smooth. Alternatively, use a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment.
Step 3: Add Vanilla and Salt
Next, add the vanilla extract and salt. Blend until everything is well combined.
Step 4: Incorporate Powdered Sugar
Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed in between each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Start with 4 cups but may require more if too wet.
Step 5: Form the Dough
Mix just until incorporated; the dough should resemble large crumbles.
Step 6: Press into Pan
Pour the dough into the prepared pan. Press it down into an even layer. For a smoother top, place a piece of parchment paper over it and press down gently.
Step 7: Melt Chocolate
In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat for 30 seconds, stir, then repeat for two additional intervals until melted.
Step 8: Layer Chocolate
Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter mixture. Spread it out evenly across the surface.
Step 9: Add Sprinkles
While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle on your desired toppings such as festive sprinkles.
Step 10: Set in Refrigerator
Place your bars in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes to set properly.
Step 11: Enjoy!
Once set, slice into bars. Enjoy them chilled or at room temperature!
How to Serve Peanut Butter Bars
Peanut Butter Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these bars can be served in creative and appealing manners.
Individual Portions
- Serve the bars cut into small squares for easy snacking. This allows guests to enjoy them without feeling guilty about indulging.
With Ice Cream
- Pair a warm slice of Peanut Butter Bar with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The combination of rich peanut butter and cold ice cream is irresistible.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each bar before serving. This adds a light and creamy texture that complements the dense peanut butter flavor.
Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce
- For an extra treat, drizzle some melted chocolate sauce over the bars. This enhances the chocolate flavor and makes them look even more tempting.
With Fresh Fruit
- Serve alongside sliced strawberries or bananas. The freshness of the fruit balances the richness of the bars, creating a delightful contrast.
How to Perfect Peanut Butter Bars
To make your Peanut Butter Bars truly outstanding, consider these helpful tips for perfecting your recipe.
- Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring your butter is softened and your peanut butter is at room temperature will help create a smoother mixture.
- Adjust powdered sugar: Start with 4 cups but add more if the mixture feels too wet. This will help achieve the right consistency for cutting.
- Chill thoroughly: Allowing the bars to set in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes ensures they hold their shape when served.
- Experiment with toppings: Feel free to add crushed nuts or different types of sprinkles for added texture or flavor variations.
- Cut with a hot knife: To achieve clean cuts, dip your knife in hot water before slicing the bars. This helps avoid crumbling while cutting.
- Store properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for freshness!
Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Bars
When serving Peanut Butter Bars, consider these side dishes that pair well and enhance your dessert experience.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides refreshing flavors that complement sweet treats.
- Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: The salty crunch of pretzels draped in chocolate offers a delightful contrast to the sweetness of peanut butter.
- Vanilla Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious side that balances the richness of the bars.
- Milkshakes: A classic vanilla or chocolate milkshake pairs perfectly, making it feel like an indulgent dessert combo.
- Coffee or Espresso: A cup of coffee or espresso enhances flavors and adds warmth alongside your Peanut Butter Bars.
- Cheese Platter: Offer mild cheeses like brie or cream cheese as they provide a savory counterpoint to sweet desserts.
- Granola Bars: Homemade or store-bought granola bars offer an additional crunchy texture that’s satisfying alongside soft treats.
- Rice Crispy Treats: These chewy snacks bring nostalgia and sweetness, making them a fun pairing with Peanut Butter Bars.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Peanut Butter Bars is simple, but there are a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Using the wrong peanut butter: Always opt for creamy peanut butter for consistent texture. Chunky varieties can lead to uneven bars.
- Not measuring powdered sugar accurately: If you add too much, your mixture may turn too dry. Start with 4 cups and adjust as needed.
- Skipping the refrigeration step: Allowing the bars to set in the fridge helps them firm up. Skipping this can result in a gooey mess.
- Overheating chocolate: Melt chocolate in short intervals and stir frequently. Overheating can cause it to seize and become unusable.
- Neglecting to line the pan: Lining your dish with parchment paper makes it easier to lift out the bars once set. Don’t skip this crucial step!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Peanut Butter Bars in an airtight container.
- They will last for up to one week in the refrigerator.
Freezing Peanut Butter Bars
- Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or foil.
- Place wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
Reheating Peanut Butter Bars
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm bars for about 5 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on low power for 10-15 seconds until just warm.
- Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat, warming each bar slightly before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making Peanut Butter Bars, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, but using crunchy peanut butter may change the texture of your bars. Creamy peanut butter provides a smoother consistency.
How can I customize my Peanut Butter Bars?
Feel free to mix in nuts, chocolate chunks, or even dried fruit for added flavor and texture!
What can I substitute for coconut oil?
You can use vegetable oil or melted butter if you don’t have coconut oil. Both will work well with the chocolate.
Are these Peanut Butter Bars gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all ingredients are gluten-free, these bars can be enjoyed by those on a gluten-free diet.
Final Thoughts
These Peanut Butter Bars are not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile! Feel free to customize them with your favorite toppings or mix-ins. Whether you’re enjoying them chilled or at room temperature, they offer a delightful treat that everyone will love.
Peanut Butter Bars
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Makes about 16 bars 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful simplicity of Peanut Butter Bars, a no-bake dessert that combines rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter into a luscious treat. Perfect for any occasion, these bars require only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, making them an ideal option for family gatherings or casual snacking. With the ability to customize toppings like sprinkles or nuts, you can add your personal touch while ensuring everyone’s sweet tooth is satisfied. Enjoy them chilled or at room temperature for a satisfying dessert experience.
Ingredients
- 2 cups creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 4–5 cups powdered sugar
- 1 ½ cups chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil
Instructions
- Line an 8×8” or 9×9" dish with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine creamy peanut butter and softened butter. Blend until smooth.
- Add vanilla extract and salt; mix until well combined.
- Gradually incorporate powdered sugar until the mixture resembles large crumbles.
- Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan.
- Melt chocolate chips with coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl; stir until smooth.
- Pour melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer; spread evenly.
- Top with festive sprinkles if desired.
- Refrigerate for about 20 minutes to set before slicing into bars.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (40g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
