Description
These No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars are a deliciously easy treat combining creamy peanut butter with a sweet powdered sugar base, topped with melted chocolate and optional festive sprinkles. Perfect for when you want a quick dessert without turning on the oven, these bars are rich, sweet, and utterly satisfying.
Ingredients
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” baking dish with parchment paper and set aside to prevent sticking and ease removal.
- Mix the Peanut Butter and Butter
In a large bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and softened butter. Use an electric hand mixer on medium speed or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment to blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add Vanilla and Salt
Incorporate the vanilla extract and salt into the peanut butter mixture, blending until well combined for balanced flavor.
- Incorporate the Powdered Sugar
Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed between additions. Scrape down the bowl’s sides as needed. Start with 4 cups and add more if the dough is still too wet or sticky. Mix until the dough forms large crumbles and is firm enough to hold its shape.
- Form the Base
Pour the peanut butter dough into the prepared pan, pressing and spreading it evenly into a flat, compact layer. For a smooth surface, use parchment or wax paper on top and press gently to flatten.
- Melt the Chocolate
Combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals in the microwave, stirring between each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
- Top with Chocolate
Pour the melted chocolate evenly over the peanut butter base and spread it gently to cover the entire surface.
- Add the Sprinkles
While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle the festive sprinkles evenly over the top for a colorful, decorative finish.
- Chill and Set
Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes to allow the chocolate and peanut butter bars to firm up and set completely.
- Serve and Enjoy
Remove the bars from the pan using the parchment paper as a lift, cut into 16 squares, and enjoy chilled or at room temperature as a sweet snack or dessert.
Notes
- Adjust powdered sugar amount based on desired texture; more sugar for a firmer bar.
- Use creamy peanut butter for smooth texture; crunchy peanut butter will change the mouthfeel.
- The coconut oil helps the chocolate topping to harden smoothly without cracking.
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- For a fun twist, try using dark or white chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate.
