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No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars

These no-bake peanut butter bars come together quickly without any oven, featuring a crunchy graham cracker crust layered with smooth, rich peanut butter. Topped with melted chocolate and a sprinkle of sea salt, they have a chewy, crumbly texture with a glossy finish, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings effortlessly. Their simple ingredients and quick assembly make them a nostalgic, yet sophisticated treat.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup peanut butter smooth, natural preferred
  • 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup for sweetness and binding
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs finely crushed
  • 1/2 cup dark chocolate for melting and topping
  • a pinch sea salt optional, for sprinkling

Equipment

  • 20x20cm (8x8 inch) baking dish
  • Spatula
  • Microwave-safe bowl
  • Small saucepan
  • Parchment paper
  • Sharp knife

Method
 

  1. Line your baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
  2. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the peanut butter and honey together in 20-second bursts, stirring in between, until smooth and glossy.
  3. Gently melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat until just shimmering, then stir in the graham cracker crumbs until evenly coated and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the prepared dish using a spatula, creating an even crust. Chill in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to set slightly.
  5. Pour the melted peanut butter and honey mixture over the crust, spreading it smoothly with the spatula. Return the dish to the fridge and chill for about 30 minutes until set and firm.
  6. Meanwhile, melt the dark chocolate in 15-second bursts in the microwave, stirring until glossy and smooth.
  7. Drizzle or spread the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer, using a spatula for an even finish. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of sea salt on top if desired.
  8. Return the entire dish to the fridge and let the bars chill for at least an hour until fully firm and glossy.
  9. Once set, lift the bars out of the dish using the parchment overhang. Use a sharp knife warmed in hot water to cut into clean squares.
  10. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Enjoy that perfect blend of crunch, creaminess, and chocolate gloss.

Notes

For added texture, fold in chopped nuts or crushed pretzels into the peanut butter mixture before pressing into the dish. Adjust sweetness by varying honey or maple syrup to taste.