Midwestern Magic: No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars

No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars

Yields: 16 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1 ½ cups semisweet chocolate chips
  • ¼ cup creamy peanut butter

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, stir together melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, and 1 cup of peanut butter until fully combined.
  2. Press the peanut butter mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking pan.
  3. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with the remaining ¼ cup peanut butter in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth.
  4. Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the peanut butter layer and spread evenly with a spatula.
  5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until the chocolate is set.
  6. Slice into squares and serve.

Variations & Tips

  • For extra crunch, mix in ½ cup chopped peanuts with the peanut butter layer.
  • Swap semisweet chips for dark chocolate chips for a bolder chocolate flavor.
  • Experiment with other nut butters like almond or cashew for a new twist.
  • Sprinkle flaky sea salt or crushed candy canes over the melted chocolate for a festive touch before chilling.

These bars are more than just a dessert—they’re a bite of Midwestern nostalgia and a sweet reminder of the simple joys that bring us together.

Enjoy!

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