Reese’s Peanut Butter No-Bake Bars are the ultimate treat for peanut butter and chocolate lovers. These bars require no baking, making them an easy and stress-free dessert option. With a buttery graham cracker base, a rich peanut butter filling, and a smooth chocolate topping, they taste just like Reese’s peanut butter cups but in bar form.
Whether you need a quick dessert for a party or a delicious snack to satisfy your sweet tooth, these bars are the perfect solution. They are easy to prepare and store, making them a great choice for meal prepping or entertaining guests. Plus, with simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a batch anytime you’re craving something indulgent.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No-Bake & Quick: Requires no oven time and takes only minutes to prepare.
- Rich & Creamy: A smooth peanut butter base with a decadent chocolate topping.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for parties, meal prep, or an easy snack.
- Customizable: Adjust sweetness, chocolate type, or add mix-ins to suit your taste.
- Kid-Friendly: Simple to make and loved by kids and adults alike.
Ingredients for Reese’s Peanut Butter No-Bake Bars
For the Peanut Butter Base:
- 1 cup (240g) creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups (250g) powdered sugar
- 2 cups (200g) graham cracker crumbs
For the Chocolate Topping:
- 1½ cups (260g) semisweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup (120g) creamy peanut butter
See also: Easter Dirt Cake Casserole Recipe
How to Make Reese’s Peanut Butter No-Bake Bars
Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Butter Base
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, peanut butter, powdered sugar, and graham cracker crumbs.
- Stir until the mixture is well incorporated and smooth.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Topping
- In a microwave-safe bowl, add the chocolate chips and peanut butter.
- Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted.
Step 3: Assemble & Chill
- Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the peanut butter layer, spreading it evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
Step 4: Slice & Serve
- Let the bars sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Cut into squares or bars and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- With Coffee or Tea: A perfect pairing for your morning or afternoon break.
- Drizzle with Caramel: Add an extra layer of flavor by drizzling caramel on top.
- With Ice Cream: Serve alongside vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- For Gifting: Wrap in decorative paper for a homemade gift idea.
Tips for Success
- Use High-Quality Peanut Butter: For a richer taste and smoother texture.
- Line the Pan with Parchment Paper: Makes removing and slicing the bars easier.
- Chill Before Cutting: Ensures clean and neat slices.
- Use a Sharp Knife: Run the knife under warm water before cutting to avoid cracking the chocolate topping.
See also: Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies Recipe
Variations
- Crunchy Version: Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
- Different Chocolate: Try white chocolate, dark chocolate, or a mix of both.
- Nut-Free Alternative: Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter.
- Healthier Option: Reduce sugar and use dark chocolate for a lower-sugar version.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle sea salt, chopped peanuts, or coconut flakes on top.
Storage and Reheating
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
- Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- Room Temperature: Let frozen bars sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving.
- Microwave: If desired, microwave for a few seconds to slightly soften the chocolate topping.
See also: Easy Cherry Cobbler Recipe
Nutritional Information
Breakdown of Key Nutrients
- Calories: 280 per bar
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Adjustments for Dietary Needs
- Lower Sugar: Reduce powdered sugar or use a sugar-free alternative.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers.
- Vegan Alternative: Swap butter for coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
Meal Prep Ideas
- Make Ahead: Prepare in advance and store in the freezer for easy snacking.
- Portion Control: Cut into small squares to manage serving sizes.
FAQs
Q: Can I use natural peanut butter?
A: Yes, but stir well as natural peanut butter can be oilier and affect consistency.
Q: How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking?
A: Allow the bars to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before slicing.
Q: Can I make these bars nut-free?
A: Yes! Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed or almond butter.
Q: What’s the best way to cut these bars cleanly?
A: Use a warm, sharp knife and wipe between cuts.
Conclusion
Reese’s Peanut Butter No-Bake Bars are a delightful treat that brings together the best flavors of chocolate and peanut butter. Whether you need a simple dessert, a make-ahead snack, or a sweet treat for a special occasion, these bars will not disappoint. With easy preparation, no baking required, and plenty of ways to customize, they are a must-try recipe for any peanut butter lover. Make a batch today and enjoy every creamy, chocolatey bite!
PrintReese’s Peanut Butter No-Bake Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 16–20 bars 1x
Description
Reese’s Peanut Butter No-Bake Bars are the ultimate treat for peanut butter and chocolate lovers. These bars require no baking, making them an easy and stress-free dessert option.
Ingredients
For the Peanut Butter Base:
- 1 cup (240g) creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups (250g) powdered sugar
- 2 cups (200g) graham cracker crumbs
For the Chocolate Topping:
- 1½ cups (260g) semisweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup (120g) creamy peanut butter
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Butter Base
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, peanut butter, powdered sugar, and graham cracker crumbs.
- Stir until the mixture is well incorporated and smooth.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Topping
- In a microwave-safe bowl, add the chocolate chips and peanut butter.
- Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted.
Step 3: Assemble & Chill
- Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the peanut butter layer, spreading it evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
Step 4: Slice & Serve
- Let the bars sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Cut into squares or bars and enjoy!
Notes
- Storage: Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Freezing: Freeze bars in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Let thaw in the fridge before serving.
- Chocolate Variation: Use milk or dark chocolate instead of semisweet for a different flavor.
- Crunchier Option: Add chopped peanuts to the peanut butter base for extra texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg