Imagine sinking your teeth into a decadent, creamy, and utterly irresistible dessert that requires ZERO baking time and delivers maximum flavor. These No Bake Peanut Butter Cup Cookie Bars are the secret weapon in every home baker's arsenal - a foolproof treat that combines the rich, nutty goodness of peanut butter with the smooth, luxurious embrace of melted chocolate. Whether you're a busy parent, a dessert enthusiast, or someone who wants to impress without spending hours in the kitchen, these bars are about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, peanut butter, and honey. Mix thoroughly using a spatula or wooden spoon until the ingredients are completely integrated and form a uniform, sticky dough.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan, pressing down firmly and evenly with the back of a spatula or your hands to create a compact, smooth base layer.
- Melt the chocolate chips using either a microwave (in 30-second intervals, stirring between each) or a double boiler, ensuring the chocolate is smooth and fully melted.
- Pour the melted chocolate evenly over the peanut butter base, using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it to the edges, creating a uniform chocolate layer.
- Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for approximately 1-2 hours, or until the chocolate has completely set and the bars are firm.
- Once chilled, lift the bars out of the pan using the overhanging parchment paper and place on a cutting board.
- Using a sharp knife, cut into 12 even rectangles or squares, cleaning the knife between cuts for neat edges.
- Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For best texture, let sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for smoother mixing and better texture.
- Choose a high-quality peanut butter for richer flavor - creamy works best.
- For a cleaner cut, use a knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between slices.
- Experiment with different chocolate types: dark, milk, or even white chocolate can work wonderfully.
- If the mixture seems too dry, add a little more honey; if too wet, add more graham cracker crumbs.
- Chill the bars completely before cutting to ensure clean, crisp edges.
- For extra decadence, sprinkle sea salt or crushed peanuts on top before the chocolate sets.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 0mg
