In the heart of the Midwest, where fields stretch as far as the eye can see and the air is filled with the sweet scent of harvest, there’s a deep-rooted tradition of creating simple yet delicious treats that bring families together. These no-bake peanut butter bars are a testament to that tradition, combining the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter with the comforting sweetness of chocolate. This recipe has been passed down through generations, a staple at church potlucks and family gatherings. It’s perfect for those times when you want to make something delicious without turning on the oven—a nod to the ingenuity and warmth of Midwestern cooking.
These no-bake peanut butter bars are a treat on their own, but they pair beautifully with a tall glass of cold milk or a steaming cup of coffee. For a more indulgent experience, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also make a lovely addition to a dessert platter, nestled among fresh fruit and other homemade treats, perfect for sharing with loved ones.
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No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars
Servings: 16
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
2 cups powdered sugar
1 cup smooth peanut butter
1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
1/4 cup smooth peanut butter
Instructions
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In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, and 1 cup of peanut butter. Mix until well blended.
Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and 1/4 cup of peanut butter. Microwave in 30 -second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is melted and smooth.
Pour the chocolate mixture over the peanut butter layer in the baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours or until the chocolate is set.
Once set, cut into squares and serve.
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Variations and Tips
For a crunchy texture, try adding 1/2 cup of chopped peanuts to the peanut butter mixture. If you like dark chocolate, substitute dark chocolate chips for the semisweet chocolate chips for a richer flavor. You can also experiment with different nut butters, such as almond or cashew, for a unique take on this classic recipe. For a festive touch, sprinkle sea salt or crushed candy canes over the chocolate layer before it hardens.
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