Peanut Butter Dream Bars Recipe

These Peanut Butter Dream Bars are a decadent, no-bake treat that combines layers of creamy peanut butter, rich chocolate, and a crunchy graham cracker crust. They’re easy to make, perfectly sweet, and utterly irresistible—perfect for satisfying your peanut butter cravings or sharing with friends and family.

Makes: 16 bars

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Chill Time: 2 hours

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10-12 graham crackers, crushed)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter , melted

For the Peanut Butter Layer:

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter , softened

For the Chocolate Topping:

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

Instructions:

Step 1: Make the Graham Cracker Crust

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
2. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a measuring cup to smooth it out.
3. Place the crust in the refrigerator while you prepare the peanut butter layer.

Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Layer

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and softened butter. Mix until smooth and well combined. The mixture should be thick and slightly sticky.
2. Spread the peanut butter mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust, using a spatula or your hands to press it down gently.
3. Return the pan to the refrigerator while you prepare the chocolate topping.

Step 3: Make the Chocolate Topping

1. In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and 2 tablespoons of butter.
2. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
3. Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer and spread it evenly with a spatula to cover the entire surface.

Step 4: Chill and Set

1. Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours , or until the chocolate layer is firm and the bars are set.
2. Once set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper and place them on a cutting board.

Step 5: Cut and Serve

1. Use a sharp knife to cut the bars into squares or rectangles. Wipe the knife clean between cuts for neat edges.
2. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week .

Tips for Success:

• Customize the chocolate: Use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
• Add texture: Sprinkle chopped peanuts or crushed pretzels on top of the chocolate layer before chilling for extra crunch.
• Make ahead: These bars can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
• Freeze option: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months . Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Nutritional Information (per bar, makes 16):

• Calories: ~220
• Protein: ~4g
• Carbohydrates: ~20g
• Fat: ~15g

Enjoy these Peanut Butter Dream Bars as a rich, indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion—or no occasion at all! Their creamy, crunchy, and chocolatey layers are sure to make them a favorite dessert.