Can I use natural peanut butter to make peanut butter bars?

Natural peanut butter can be used, but it may cause the bars to turn crumbly because it often separates, leaving thin oil on top. If using natural peanut butter, stir it thoroughly before measuring and consider choosing varieties labeled as “no-stir” or those with added oils to maintain a creamy texture. For best results, standard no-stir peanut butter is recommended to help the bars hold together well.

How can I make peanut butter bars gluten-free?

To make gluten-free peanut butter bars, replace regular graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham cracker crumbs. Double-check all other ingredients to confirm they don’t contain gluten or risk cross-contamination. This simple swap keeps the texture and flavor similar while making the bars safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

What pan size should I use if I want thicker or thinner peanut butter bars?

Use an 8×8 inch pan for thicker bars and a 9×9 inch pan if you prefer thinner bars or a larger yield. Changing the pan size adjusts the thickness without altering the amount of batter, so pick the size based on how dense you want your bars and how many servings you need.

How do I cut peanut butter bars without cracking the chocolate layer?

Use a sharp chef’s knife warmed by running it under hot water, then wiped dry, before each cut. This helps the knife glide smoothly through the chocolate, preventing cracks. Reheat and dry the knife as needed while cutting to maintain clean, even slices.

How should I store peanut butter bars to keep them fresh?

Store peanut butter bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh for up to two weeks. Chilling helps maintain firmness and flavor, especially if they have a chocolate topping. For longer storage, you can freeze the bars in a sealed container for up to three months.

Peanut Butter Bars Recipe With 5 Easy Ingredients In 15 Minutes

Ingredients

– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled (226g)

– 1½ cups creamy peanut butter, divided (396g)

– 1¾ cups powdered sugar (210g)

– 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (240g)

– 1½ cups semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips (270g)

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Instructions

1-Line an 8-inch or 9-inch square dish with parchment paper or foil. This makes removal easy later.

2-In a large bowl, mix the melted butter and 1¼ cups of peanut butter using a mixer or whisk until fully combined. Get it creamy smooth.

3-Add powdered sugar and mix until well blended, scraping the bowl as needed. No dry pockets here.

4-Fold in the graham cracker crumbs until evenly incorporated. Press firmly for density.

5-Spread the mixture evenly in the lined dish and refrigerate. Let it firm up a bit.

6-In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips with the remaining ¼ cup peanut butter. Microwave in 30 to 40 second intervals, stirring between sessions until mostly melted. Stir smooth.

7-Pour the chocolate topping over the peanut butter base and smooth the surface.

8-Chill the bars for at least 2 hours until set, then cut into bars.

Last Step:

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Notes

🥜 Use creamy peanut butter without oil separation to keep bars smooth and prevent grainy texture
🔪 For clean, perfect slices, warm your knife with hot water and dry it between each cut
⏰ Chill bars for at least 2 hours minimum, but overnight chilling makes them even easier to cut and serve

Author: Brandi Oshea
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chilling Time: 2 hours
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-bake/Refrigerator
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 627
Sugar: 35g
Sodium: 236mg
Fat: 45g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Unsaturated Fat: 21g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 51g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 42mg