Craving a rich, indulgent dessert that’s easy to make and doesn’t require turning on the oven? These Peanut Butter Dream Bars are the ultimate no-bake dessert loaded with creamy peanut butter, a buttery graham cracker crust, and a decadent chocolate topping. Perfect for potlucks, parties, or satisfying that late-night sweet tooth, this layered bar recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Quick & no oven required: Perfect for summer or when you need a dessert in a hurry.
Classic flavor combo: Rich chocolate + creamy peanut butter = pure bliss.
Great for gifting or gatherings: Easy to slice, store, and share.

Ingredients Breakdown

Crust Layer:

Graham Cracker Crumbs (1 ½ cups): Forms the base of the bars with a slightly sweet, crunchy texture.
Unsalted Butter – Melted (½ cup): Binds the crumbs together to create a firm crust.

Peanut Butter Layer:

Powdered Sugar (1 cup): Sweetens and helps thicken the peanut butter filling.
Creamy Peanut Butter (1 cup): The star ingredient—rich, nutty, and smooth for that classic flavor.

Chocolate Topping:

Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (1 ½ cups): Melted into a rich chocolate topping that balances the sweetness.
Unsalted Butter (¼ cup): Adds silkiness to the melted chocolate.
Vanilla Extract (½ tsp): Enhances the chocolate’s depth with a subtle hint of warmth.
Chopped Peanuts (¼ cup, optional): Adds a crunchy finish and a decorative touch.

Tips and Tricks:

Use room temperature peanut butter for easier mixing.
Line your pan with parchment paper to lift the bars out effortlessly for clean slicing.
Add a pinch of salt to the peanut butter layer for a sweet-salty balance.
Use an offset spatula to spread each layer smoothly.

Variations and Customizations:

Crunchy Twist: Use crunchy peanut butter or add crushed pretzels to the crust.
Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter and dairy-free chocolate chips.
Almond or Cashew Version: Swap out peanut butter for your favorite nut butter.

Pairing Suggestions:

Drinks: Serve with cold milk, hot coffee, or a peanut butter banana smoothie.
Toppings: Add a drizzle of white chocolate or caramel sauce.
Dessert Spread: Pair with brownies, lemon bars, or cheesecake bites for a dessert buffet.

Storage Instructions:

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Place parchment between layers to prevent sticking.
Serving Tip: Let sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before serving for a softer bite.

Peanut Butter Dream Bars

Author: easysweetmeal
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (includes chilling)
Yield: 16 bars 1x

Print Recipe

Description

Peanut Butter Dream Bars – A no-bake delight with a graham cracker crust, creamy peanut butter filling, and smooth chocolate topping. Perfectly indulgent, easy to make, and irresistibly delicious for any occasion

Ingredients

Scale

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup powdered sugar
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
¼ cup unsalted butter
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ cup chopped peanuts (for added texture and crunch)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2: Make the Crust

In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter.
Stir until evenly combined, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.

Step 3: Create the Peanut Butter Layer

In a separate bowl, mix powdered sugar and peanut butter until smooth.
Spread evenly over the graham cracker crust, smoothing with a spatula.

Step 4: Make the Chocolate Topping

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and butter in 20–30 second bursts, stirring after each.
Once melted and smooth, stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 5: Assemble the Bars

Pour the chocolate mixture over the peanut butter layer.
Spread evenly and sprinkle chopped peanuts on top, if desired.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours or until firm.
Slice into bars and enjoy!

Notes

These no-bake Peanut Butter Dream Bars combine three simple layers for one spectacular dessert. The smooth peanut butter center and rich chocolate topping melt in your mouth, while the graham cracker base adds a delightful crunch. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a casual weekend, or just because—it doesn’t get better than this easy, satisfying treat.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American