No-Bake Reese's Peanut Butter Bars

Name: No-Bake Reese's Peanut Butter Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup peanut butter; 1 cup graham cracker crumbs; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup butter, melted; 1 cup milk chocolate chips; 2 tablespoons peanut butter

Highlighted under: Classic Baking Recipes

I love creating desserts that are as simple as they are delicious, and these No-Bake Reese's Peanut Butter Bars are the perfect example! With just a few ingredients, I can whip up a sweet treat that satisfies my cravings for both chocolate and peanut butter. The combination of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate is simply irresistible. Plus, there's no need for an oven, making it a quick and easy option for when I'm short on time but still want something indulgent.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-08T15:46:34.545Z

When I first tried making No-Bake Reese's Peanut Butter Bars, I was amazed by how quick and hassle-free the process was. Combining the creamy peanut butter with crunchy graham crackers gave these bars a delightful texture that's hard to resist. I realized after a few attempts that pressing the mixture firmly is key to achieving that perfect bar shape.

One evening, I decided to double the recipe to share with friends, and it became an instant hit. Everyone loved how the chocolate perfectly complements the peanut butter flavor. I've even experimented by adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top, which takes these bars to a whole new level!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent layers of peanut butter and chocolate
No baking required, making it a quick dessert
Perfect for gatherings or satisfying midnight cravings

      

Creating the Perfect Texture

Achieving the right texture in these bars is essential for that ideal melt-in-your-mouth experience. When combining the peanut butter, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and melted butter, aim for a smooth consistency without any lumps. If it's too crumbly, add a touch more melted butter or peanut butter until you reach a smooth, moldable texture that holds together well while still being soft.

Pressing the mixture firmly into the baking dish is another key step. Use the back of a measuring cup or your hands to pack it down evenly. This ensures that the bars won’t fall apart when sliced and gives them a sturdy base. After pressing, let the base set in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes before adding the chocolate topping, which helps firm it up further.

Choosing the Right Chocolate

The type of chocolate you choose for the topping can significantly impact the flavor of your bars. While milk chocolate chips lend a creamy sweetness that complements the rich peanut butter, you can also experiment with dark chocolate for a more intense flavor. If you go with dark chocolate, consider adding a tablespoon of honey or a bit of extra sugar to balance out the bitterness, especially if you have a sweet tooth.

Melting the chocolate chips and peanut butter together requires careful attention. Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to avoid scorching. You should aim for a glossy consistency without any chocolate lumps. If the mixture becomes too thick, just add a teaspoon of coconut oil to achieve a smoother pour—this helps the topping spread easily over the base.

Ingredients

For the Bars

1 cup peanut butter
1 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup butter, melted

For the Topping

1 cup milk chocolate chips
2 tablespoons peanut butter

Instructions

Prepare the Base

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the peanut butter, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and melted butter. Mix until well combined and smooth.

Press into Pan

Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Pour the mixture into the dish and press down firmly to create an even layer.

Make the Topping

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the milk chocolate chips with 2 tablespoons of peanut butter in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.

Assemble the Bars

Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the pressed peanut butter layer. Spread evenly with a spatula and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.

Slice and Serve

Once set, remove the bars from the dish using the parchment paper. Slice into squares and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an added crunch, consider mixing in some chopped peanuts or using crunchy peanut butter in the base for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These No-Bake Reese's Peanut Butter Bars are perfect for making ahead of time. Once they have set, slice them into squares and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last up to a week, but I often find they disappear much faster! For more extended storage, consider freezing them; simply separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking and keep them fresh for up to three months.

If you're planning to take them on a picnic or serve them during a gathering, consider bringing them to room temperature before serving for that soft, creamy texture. Alternatively, you can serve them slightly chilled from the fridge, which offers a firmer bite that many people find refreshing.

Substitutions and Variations

You can easily tweak the ingredients to accommodate dietary restrictions or preferences. For gluten-free bars, ensure to use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs. If you're looking for a healthier option, substitute some of the graham cracker crumbs with finely ground oats or almond flour to add a nutty flavor while reducing the sugar content from the powdered sugar. For a nut-free version, try sun butter or another seed butter instead of peanut butter.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a dash of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the chocolate layer before it sets. You can also incorporate crispy rice cereal into the peanut butter mixture for added crunch and texture. Experiment with different toppings like drizzling white chocolate over the dark chocolate layer for a beautiful contrast.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of nut butter?

Yes, almond butter or cashew butter can be great alternatives.

→ How should I store the bars?

Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these bars?

Absolutely! They freeze well for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly.

→ Is there a way to make these bars healthier?

You can substitute the graham cracker crumbs with crushed oats and use a natural sweetener like maple syrup instead of powdered sugar.