No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars are thick moist and soft, topped with a chocolate glaze, it offers a delightful timeless combination of favors!
You will also like Chocolate Cookie Bars, Almond Nougat Bar, Peanut Butter Fudge, Scotcherros and Honeycomb Candy.
![No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/No-Bake-Peanut-Butter-Bars.jpg)
These bars are incredibly easy to make, requiring no baking. This combination of peanut and chocolate flavor is a straightforward indulgence that never fails to satisfy cravings.
In a matter of minutes, you will be able to make these delightful sweets using only a handful of uncomplicated ingredients. The hardest part is waiting for them to chill in the fridge! Ideal for satisfying sudden dessert carvings or bringing along to picnics and potlucks.
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⭐Why You'll Love This No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars Recipe
This recipe offers simplicity, speed, and a delightful taste.
Here are a few reasons to fall in love with this recipe:
- Simple Ingredients: The recipe requires basic and readily available ingredients like digestive cookies, peanuts, sugar, butter, and dark chocolate. You likely have these items in your pantry.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is incredibly easy and quick to make. With no baking involved, you can whip up a batch in minimal time.
- No-Fuss Preparation: With minimal steps and simple instructions, this recipe is perfect for beginners or those who want a hassle-free sweet treats.
- No Oven Required: The no-bake aspect means you don't need to use an oven, making it a great option during hot weather or when you want to avoid turning on the oven.
- Rich and Indulgent: The combination of dark chocolate, peanuts, and the buttery cookie base creates a rich and indulgent satisfying treat for chocolate and peanut butter lovers.
- Versatile Topping: The chocolate topping is versatile and can be customized with your preferred type of chocolate. Whether you love dark, milk, or white chocolate, you can adapt the topping to suit your taste.
- Kid-Friendly: The simplicity of the recipe and the delicious combination of flavors make it a kid-friendly option. Get the little ones involved in the kitchen for a fun and tasty activity.
- Perfect for Sharing: These bars are great for sharing at gatherings, potlucks, or as a thoughtful homemade gift.
If you want more desserts you should check out 2 Ingredient Chocolate Fudge and Pate de Fruits.
🧾Ingredients
Each ingredient in the No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars plays a specific role, contributing to the flavor, texture, and overall deliciousness of the bars:
![No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/No-Bake-Peanut-Butter-Bars-1.jpg)
For the Base:
- Digestive Cookies: Provides the base and structure for the bars. Adds a crumbly and buttery texture to the base. The cookies act as a foundation for the other ingredients.
- Peanuts: Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
- Sugar: Sweetens the base and balances the flavors.
- Water: Combines with butter and sugar to create a syrup that binds the base, forming a cohesive base for the bars.
- Butter: Provides richness and helps bind the ingredients. Adds a buttery flavor and contributes to the smooth and cohesive texture of the base. It helps hold the bars together.
- Dark Chocolate (Base): Adds depth of flavor and contributes to the overall chocolatey goodness.
For the Topping:
- Dark Chocolate (Topping): Forms the top layer and adds a chocolate coating. Creates a smooth and glossy chocolate layer on top of the bars, enhancing the overall chocolate flavor. It adds a luxurious finish to the bars.
- Oil: Enhances the consistency and appearance of the chocolate topping. The oil is added to the topping to achieve a smooth and glossy texture. It helps the chocolate set evenly and provides a shiny finish.
📋Substitution
Substituting ingredients in this recipe can be done based on personal preferences or dietary restrictions.
Here are some potential substitutions for the No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars ingredients:
For the Base:
- Digestive Cookies:
- Substitute: Graham crackers, tea biscuits, shortbread cookies, or any other cookie with a similar texture.
- Note: Choose a cookie with a neutral or complementary flavor to the other ingredients.
- Peanuts:
- Substitute: Almonds, walnuts, cashews, or any other nuts of your choice.
- Note: Ensure the nuts are unsalted and finely chopped for a similar crunch.
- Sugar:
- Substitute: Brown sugar, coconut sugar, or a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia.
- Note: Adjust the quantity based on your preferred level of sweetness.
- Water:
- Substitute: Milk, almond milk, coconut milk, or any other non-dairy milk.
- Note: The goal is to create a syrup with butter and sugar, so choose a liquid that complements the overall flavor.
- Butter:
- Substitute: Margarine, coconut oil, or a plant-based butter alternative.
- Note: Choose a substitute with a similar fat content to maintain the richness in the bars.
- Dark Chocolate (Base):
- Substitute: Milk chocolate, semi-sweet chocolate, or a combination of chocolates.
- Note: Adjust the sweetness level based on personal preference. Dark chocolate provides a rich flavor, but you can choose a different type if desired.
For the Topping:
- Dark Chocolate (Topping):
- Substitute: Milk chocolate, white chocolate, or a combination for a different flavor.
- Note: The topping chocolate can be tailored to your taste preferences.
- Oil:
- Substitute: Coconut oil, vegetable oil, or melted butter.
- Note: The oil is added to improve the texture and shine of the chocolate topping. Choose a neutral-flavored oil.
See the recipe card below for a full list of ingredients and measurements.
📖Variations
No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars are versatile, and you can experiment with various flavors and textures to create unique variations.
![No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/No-Bake-Peanut-Butter-Bars-3.jpg)
Here are some ideas for delightful twists on the recipe:
- Pretzel Crunch Bars: Crushed pretzels to the cookie and peanut base for a salty crunch. Sprinkle extra pretzel pieces on top of the chocolate layer.
- Caramel Drizzle Bars: Drizzle caramel sauce over the cookie and peanut base before adding the chocolate topping.
- White Chocolate Swirl Bars: Swirl melted white chocolate into the dark chocolate topping for a marbled effect.
- S'mores Bars: Layer mini marshmallows on top of the cookie base before pouring the chocolate topping. Use a kitchen torch to lightly toast the marshmallows.
- Chili Chocolate Surprise: Add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the chocolate topping for a subtle spicy kick.
- Mocha Peanut Butter Bars: Mix instant coffee or espresso powder into the chocolate topping for a delightful coffee flavor.
- Cherry Almond Bars: Add chopped almonds to the cookie base and fold in dried cherries for a nutty and fruity combination.
- Maple Pecan Bars: Substitute part of the sugar with maple syrup, and add chopped pecans to the cookie base.
- Crispy Rice Crunch Bars: Mix crispy rice cereal into the cookie and peanut base for an extra crispy texture.
- Hazelnut Chocolate Bars: Replace peanuts with chopped hazelnuts and use hazelnut chocolate spread in the base.
Feel free to combine multiple variations or create your own unique twist by experimenting with different ingredients. The possibilities are endless, and you can tailor these bars to suit your taste preferences and any dietary considerations.
👩🏻🍳How to Make No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars
These step-by-step instructions and photos will help you to visualize how to make this recipe. See the recipe card for a printable version of this recipe.
![No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars Process 1](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Process-1-6.jpg)
1. Prepare a 21x15 cm baking pan by lining it with parchment paper.
![No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars Process 2](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Process-2-6.jpg)
2. Using a food processor, pulverize the digestive cookies into fine crumbs. Transfer the resulting crumbs to a mixing bowl.
![No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars Process 3](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Process-3-6.jpg)
3. Utilize a food processor to finely crush the peanuts, then sprinkle the resulting fine pieces over the cookie crumbs. Thoroughly mix until well combined.
![No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars Process 4](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Process-4-6.jpg)
4. Combine sugar, water, and butter in a saucepan, and melt the butter while dissolving the sugar over medium heat.
![No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars Process 5](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Process-5-6.jpg)
5. Pour the melted butter-sugar mixture onto the cookie blend, ensuring thorough mixing until all the ingredients are uniformly combined.
![No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars Process 6](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Process-6-6.jpg)
6. Split the cookie mixture into two equal portions and transfer one of them into a separate mixing bowl.
![Process 7](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Process-7-6.jpg)
7. Take the dark chocolate and finely chop it, then transfer the chopped chocolate into a heatproof bowl.
![Process 8](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Process-8-6.jpg)
8. Place the the bowl over a pot of gently simmering water. Stir continuously until the chocolate melts and becomes smooth.
![Process 9](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Process-9-5.jpg)
9. Upon achieving a smooth melt, incorporate it into the cookie mixture. Stir until all components are thoroughly combined.
![Process 10](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Process-10-4.jpg)
10. Transfer the chocolate infused cookie mixture into the pan, then firmly press it down with a glass to form a uniform layer.
![Process 11](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Process-11-3.jpg)
11. Place the cookie mixture onto the chocolate cookie base and use firm pressure to create an even layer.
![Process 7](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Process-7-6.jpg)
12. Finely chop the dark chocolate and put it in a heatproof bowl. Introduce oil to the chocolate in the same bowl.
![Process 13](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Process-12-3.jpg)
13. Place the bowl over a saucepan with simmering water, stir until the chocolate achieves a smooth and fully blended consistency.
![Process 14](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Process-13-3.jpg)
14. Pour the melted chocolate mixture evenly over the compressed cookie base, ensuring a uniform spread.
![Process 15](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Process-14-1.jpg)
15. Transfer the pan to the refrigerator and allow it to cool for a minimum of 4 hours, or until the chocolate and cookie mixture is set.
![Process 16](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Process-15-1.jpg)
16. After the chocolate and cookie mixture has completely set, extract it from the pan using the parchment paper as handles. Transfer it onto a cutting board and slice into bars of your preferred size.
![Process 17](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Process-16.jpg)
17. Arrange the no-bake chocolate peanut butter bars on a plate, and enjoy this delightful treat!
🔪Equipment
Check out all of my kitchen essentials in my Amazon Store!
Here is a list of kitchen utensils for making this No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars:
- Baking Tray
- Electric Hand Blender
- Small Bowl
- Large Bowl
- Spatula
- Saucepan
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Scraper
❄️Storage
Storing, freezing, and defrosting No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars can help maintain their freshness and texture.
Here's a guide on how to handle each stage:
Storing:
- Room Temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. If the environment is warm, consider storing them in the refrigerator to prevent the chocolate from softening.
- Refrigerator: For longer shelf life, store the bars in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 1-2 weeks. This helps maintain the texture and prevents the chocolate from melting in warmer temperatures.
- Freezer: If you want to store the bars for an extended period, they can be frozen.
Freezing:
- Individually Wrap: Wrap each bar individually with plastic wrap to prevent them from sticking together.
- Airtight Container: Place the individually wrapped bars in an airtight container or a resealable freezer bag.
- Label and Date: Label the container or bag with the date of freezing to keep track of freshness.
Defrosting:
- Gradual Thawing: Remove the desired number of bars from the freezer and let them thaw gradually in the refrigerator.
- Room Temperature: Once partially thawed in the refrigerator, let the bars come to room temperature before serving.
- Avoid Microwave: Avoid using the microwave for defrosting, as it can cause the chocolate to melt unevenly and may affect the texture of the bars.
🍽 How to Serve
Serving No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars can be a delightful experience, and there are various ways to present and enjoy this sweet treat.
Here are some serving suggestions:
- Classic Presentation: Cut the bars into even squares or rectangles. Arrange them on a serving platter or in a decorative dish.
- Cut into Triangles: Instead of squares or rectangles, cut the bars into triangular shapes for a unique presentation.
- Individual Servings: Portion the bars into individual servings for easy serving at parties or gatherings.
- Pair with Fresh Fruit: Serve the bars with fresh fruit such as sliced strawberries, raspberries, or banana slices. The fruity freshness complements the richness of the bars.
- Gift Packaging: Package individual bars in decorative bags or boxes for a thoughtful and delicious gift.
![No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/No-Bake-Peanut-Butter-Bars-4.jpg)
💭Tips for Recipe Success
Creating perfect No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars is a simple yet rewarding process.
Here are some tips to ensure your bars turn out delicious and delightful:
Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Choose fresh peanuts, good-quality chocolate, and your preferred brand of butter.
Properly Measure Ingredients: Measure your ingredients accurately. Precise measurements contribute to the right balance of flavors and textures.
Use Parchment Paper: Line your pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This makes it easier to lift the bars out of the pan for cutting.
Evenly Crushed Cookies and peanuts: Crush the cookies and peanuts evenly to create a consistent base texture. You can use a food processor for a fine texture.
Compact the Base: Press the cookie peanut base firmly into the pan to ensure a solid foundation for the bars. Use a spatula and a glass for an even surface.
Melt Chocolate Gently: When melting chocolate, do it gently to avoid burning. Use a double boiler.
Avoid Overmixing Chocolate Topping: When mixing the chocolate topping, avoid overmixing to prevent the chocolate from becoming too thick. A smooth and pourable consistency is ideal.
Chill Properly: Allow the bars to chill thoroughly in the refrigerator before cutting. This ensures that the bars set properly and are easy to cut into clean, even pieces.
Cut with a Warm Knife: Dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry before cutting. This helps to create clean, smooth cuts, especially when dealing with a chocolate topping.
Let Bars Come to Room Temperature Before Serving: If you refrigerate the bars, allow them to come to room temperature for a few minutes before serving. This enhances the flavors and textures.
Remember that making these bars is a flexible process, and you can customize them according to your taste preferences. Enjoy the creative process and savor the deliciousness of these No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars!
🍛More Dessert Recipes!
Here are more of my favorite dessert recipes! Try these:
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🎥Watch my Videos
This video will show you the details and step-by-step instructions for making this fantastic Peanut Butter Fudge!
📖 Recipe
![No Bake Peanut Butter Bars](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/No-Bake-Peanut-Butter-Bars-2-360x360.jpg)
No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars
Ingredients
For Cookie Peanut Butter:
- 300 g Digestive Cookies
- 150 g Peanuts
- 100 g Sugar
- 100 ml Water
- 125 g Butter
- 100 g Dark Chocolate
For Topping:
- 100 g Dark Chocolate
- 2 tablespoon Oil
Instructions
- Line a 21x15 cm baking pan with parchment paper.
- Crush the digestive cookies into fine crumbs with a food processor. Place in a large mixing bowl.
- Place the peanuts in a food processor and crush them into fine pieces. Pour over the cookie crumbs and mix well until combined.
- In a saucepan, add sugar, water and butter, melt the butter and dissolve the sugar over medium heat.
- Pour the melted butter-sugar mixture over the cookie mixture. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly combined.
- Divide the cookie mixture into two equal parts and place one of them in a mixing bowl.
- Finely chop the dark chocolate and place in a heatproof bowl.
- Melt the chocolate by placing the bowl over a pot of simmering water. Stir until smooth and well combined.
- Once melted, add it to the cookie mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Pour the chocolate cookie mixture into the pan and press firmly with a glass, creating an even layer.
- Add the cookie mixture onto the chocolate cookie base and firmly press it down to achieve a uniform layer.
- Chop the dark chocolate into small pieces, place in a heatproof bowl and add oil.
- Melt the chocolate by situating the bowl over gently simmering water, stirring consistently until it reaches a smooth and thoroughly combined consistency.
- Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the pressed cookie base, spreading it evenly.
- Place the pan in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 4 hours, or until the chocolate and cookie mixture is set.
- Once the chocolate and cookie mixture are fully set, remove it from the pan using the parchment paper as handles. Place on a cutting board and cut into desired-sized bars.
- Place the no-bake chocolate peanut butter bars on a plate, serve and enjoy this delicious treat!
Notes
Nutrition
Nutritional information is based on third-party calculations and should be considered an estimate only. Actual nutritional content will vary based upon brands used, measuring methods, cooking method, portion sizes, and more.
Sandra
I would add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the chocolate for that extra something special. These bars look incredible! thanks for the recipe!