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Finished bars arranged on a plate, emphasizing the shiny chocolate surface and grainy texture beneath.

No-Bake Peanut Butter Cup Bars

Rich no-bake peanut butter bars made with graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, smooth peanut butter, and a milk chocolate topping.
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Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Keyword: No-Bake Peanut Butter Cup Bars

Ingredients

  • ½ c unsalted butter
  • 1 ¾ c powdered sugar
  • 1 c smooth peanut butter
  • ¾ c graham cracker crumbs
  • ¼ c unsalted butter
  • ½ c milk chocolate chips

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

  • Butter the bottom and sides of an 8×8-inch square pan.
  • Place a long piece of parchment paper in the bottom of the pan, allowing it to extend up two sides and slightly overhang the edges.
  • Butter the parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Peanut Butter Base

  • Place ½ c unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over low heat.
  • Melt the butter completely, then remove the saucepan from the heat.

Step 3: Add the Powdered Sugar

  • Add the powdered sugar to the melted butter.
  • Stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.

Step 4: Add the Peanut Butter and Graham Cracker Crumbs

  • Add the smooth peanut butter and graham cracker crumbs to the saucepan.
  • Stir until the mixture is fully combined, smooth, and thick.

Step 5: Spread the Peanut Butter Layer

  • Transfer the peanut butter mixture to the prepared pan.
  • Spread it evenly across the bottom of the pan.
  • Smooth the top with a spatula.

Step 6: Prepare the Chocolate Topping

  • In the same saucepan, melt the remaining ¼ c unsalted butter over low heat.
  • Add the milk chocolate chips and stir until almost completely melted.
  • Remove the saucepan from the heat and continue stirring until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.

Step 7: Add the Chocolate Layer

  • Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the peanut butter layer.
  • Spread it evenly with a spatula to cover the surface.

Step 8: Chill

  • Place the pan in the refrigerator.
  • Chill for at least 30 minutes, or until the bars are fully set.

Step 9: Slice and Serve

  • Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars from the pan.
  • Transfer to a cutting board.
  • Slice into 16 bars using a pizza cutter or sharp knife.
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Notes

To make these No-Bake Peanut Butter Cup Bars gluten-free, replace the regular graham cracker crumbs with certified gluten-free graham cracker crumbs. Confirm that the powdered sugar, peanut butter, milk chocolate chips, butter, and all packaged ingredients are labeled gluten-free. Some chocolate chips and peanut butter brands may contain gluten-based additives or cross-contact warnings, so check labels carefully. Use clean cookware, measuring tools, spatulas, parchment paper, cutting boards, and storage containers to prevent gluten contamination.