Whenever my mom whipped up this dessert during life’s hectic seasons, it vanished from the table in record time.
In the heart of America’s Midwest—where golden fields sway in the breeze, and kitchens hum with the quiet joy of simple, homemade food—there’s a time-honored tradition of desserts that don’t ask much but give everything. These No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars are just that: minimal effort, maximum comfort.
Beloved at church potlucks, passed around at family reunions, and always welcomed at late-night kitchen chats, this recipe has lived a long, delicious life across generations. It’s creamy, chocolatey, sweet but balanced, and it requires no oven, no fancy tools, and almost no time.
🧈 Ingredients (Yields 16 Squares)
Here’s what you’ll need:
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1 cup unsalted butter, melted
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2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 16 full crackers, finely crushed)
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2 cups powdered sugar
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1 cup creamy peanut butter
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1 ½ cups semisweet chocolate chips
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¼ cup creamy peanut butter (for the topping)
🥄 Instructions
Step 1: Create the Peanut Butter Base
In a large mixing bowl, stir together:
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Melted butter
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Graham cracker crumbs
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Powdered sugar
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1 cup peanut butter
Mix until fully combined. It should resemble a thick dough.
Press the mixture evenly into a greased or parchment-lined 9×13-inch pan. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to smooth it flat and even.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Topping
In a microwave-safe bowl or a double boiler, melt the chocolate chips and ¼ cup peanut buttertogether.
Stir until smooth and glossy.
Step 3: Layer and Chill
Pour the chocolate mixture over the peanut butter base and spread it evenly with a spatula.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
Step 4: Slice and Serve
Once fully chilled, slice into squares or bars. For clean cuts, warm a knife slightly under hot water and wipe between slices.
☕ How to Serve
These bars are indulgent yet simple—a true Midwestern marvel. Serve them:
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With a cold glass of milk for that classic combo
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Alongside hot coffee or teafor an afternoon pick-me-up
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As part of a dessert tray for holidays, bake sales, or potlucks
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With a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a next-level treat
🧊 Storage Tips
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Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5–7 days.
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Freezer: Freeze bars (wrapped individually or layered with parchment paper) for up to 2 months. Let thaw in the fridge before serving.
💡 Variations & Tips
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Crunchy twist: Use crunchy peanut butter or add chopped peanuts to the base for extra texture.
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Gluten-free: Swap graham crackers for a gluten-free version.
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Sweeter topping: Use milk chocolate chips instead of semisweet for a softer, sweeter finish.
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Festive flair: Top with crushed pretzels, flaky sea salt, or holiday sprinkles before the chocolate sets.
❤️ A Taste of Home
These No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars are more than a sweet treat—they’re a bite of childhood, a spoonful of tradition, and a whole lot of love. Quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying, they’re proof that you don’t need to turn on the oven to make something special.
From our Midwestern kitchen to yours—enjoy every decadent bite