Go Back

No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars

These no-bake peanut butter bars are a nostalgic treat that come together effortlessly with melted peanut butter, butter, honey, and crushed cookies. Once pressed into a pan and topped with glossy melted chocolate, they set into chewy, sticky bars with a rich peanut aroma and a smooth, chocolatey finish. Perfect for a quick, comforting dessert without any oven time.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 2 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter natural, roasted preferred
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted until shimmering
  • 1/4 cup honey or corn syrup
  • 2 cups crushed cookies graham crackers or digestives
  • 1 cup chocolate chips good quality, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • a pinch sea salt flakes for sprinkling on top

Equipment

  • 20x20cm (8x8 inch) pan
  • Spatula or rubber scraper
  • Microwave-safe bowl
  • Sharp knife

Method
 

  1. Gather your equipment: a square pan, spatula, microwave-safe bowl, and sharp knife.
  2. In the microwave-safe bowl, combine the peanut butter, melted butter, and honey. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring each time, until the mixture is smooth, glossy, and well combined—this should take about 1-2 minutes.
  3. Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt to the melted mixture, stirring until evenly incorporated.
  4. Crush the cookies into small crumbs—aim for a mix of fine and slightly chunky bits—and pour them into the peanut butter mixture. Fold gently until all the cookie crumbs are coated and sticky.
  5. Press the cookie mixture firmly into the prepared pan, spreading it out with the spatula and pressing down until smooth and even across the surface.
  6. Refrigerate the pressed mixture for at least 2 hours, or until it’s set and firm. For quicker results, freeze for about 30-45 minutes.
  7. Meanwhile, melt the chocolate chips in the microwave in short bursts, stirring each time until smooth, glossy, and fully melted—about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
  8. Pour the melted chocolate over the set peanut butter mixture, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle a few sea salt flakes on top for added flavor contrast.
  9. Return the pan to the fridge and let the chocolate set completely, about 30 minutes. If in a rush, place in the freezer for 10-15 minutes.
  10. Once the chocolate is firm, use a sharp knife to cut the bars into squares, wiping the blade clean between slices for neat edges.
  11. Serve the bars chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy their chewy, sticky texture and nostalgic peanut aroma in every bite!

Notes

For a richer flavor, use dark chocolate or add chopped nuts to the mixture. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.