If you’re looking for an absolutely irresistible treat that combines creamy peanut butter with rich chocolate and a satisfying crunch, this No Bake Reese’s Peanut Butter Bars Recipe is the answer to your dessert dreams. These bars come together in just minutes without ever turning on the oven, making them a perfect no-fuss snack that’s bursting with classic Reese’s flavor. The smooth peanut butter base paired with a luscious chocolate topping and a sprinkle of Reese’s Pieces makes for a playful yet comforting bite that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple pantry staples, each playing a crucial role in building the perfect balance of texture and flavor. From the crunchy graham cracker crumbs to the creamy peanut butter and melt-in-your-mouth chocolate, every element is essential to create the perfect peanut butter bar.
- 2 cups finely crushed graham cracker crumbs: Provides a light, crispy base that holds everything together.
- 1 cup melted butter (2 sticks): Adds richness and helps bind the crumbs into a firm crust.
- 1 cup smooth peanut butter: The star ingredient offering creamy, nutty goodness with every bite.
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the peanut butter mixture for that perfect consistency.
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips: Gives a luscious chocolate layer that balances the peanut butter’s saltiness.
- 1/4 cup smooth peanut butter: Mixed with chocolate to create the dreamy, glossy topping.
- 3/4 cup Reese’s Pieces: Adds a colorful, crunchy finish with bursts of peanut butter flavor.
How to Make No Bake Reese’s Peanut Butter Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Start off by lightly spraying a 9×12-inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray. This simple step ensures your bars will lift right out when they’re perfectly set, making cleanup and serving a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Base
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the finely crushed graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, peanut butter, and powdered sugar. Stir everything together until you get a smooth, thick batter. The mixture should hold together well but still be creamy enough to spread evenly.
Step 3: Create the Bottom Layer
Press the peanut butter mixture evenly into your prepared pan. Taking a clean spatula or the back of a spoon, smooth it out carefully to create a firm and level base that will serve as the rich foundation for your bars.
Step 4: Make the Chocolate-Peanut Butter Topping
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips with 1/4 cup smooth peanut butter. Heat in 15 second intervals, stirring thoroughly between each one, until the mixture is fully melted and silky smooth. This luscious topping will add the perfect decadent contrast to your bars.
Step 5: Top Your Bars
Spread the chocolate-peanut butter mixture evenly over the peanut butter layer. Then sprinkle the entire top generously with Reese’s Pieces. These colorful candies not only taste amazing but also give the bars a festive and textured finish.
Step 6: Chill and Cut
Pop the pan into the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to let the bars set completely. Once firm, cut into 12 equal-sized squares. You can serve these divine bars cold right from the fridge or bring them to room temperature for a softer bite.
How to Serve No Bake Reese’s Peanut Butter Bars Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch, try adding chopped peanuts or a drizzle of melted white chocolate over the bars before chilling. A light dusting of sea salt can also elevate the peanut butter flavor and add an irresistible gourmet touch.
Side Dishes
These bars are perfect alongside a glass of cold milk or a cup of coffee. For a brunch spread, pair them with fresh fruit or yogurt for a fun mix of sweet and tangy flavors that complement the richness of the bars.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your bars on a decorative platter and surround them with mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups or extra Reese’s Pieces for a fun themed dessert. You can also cut them into bite-sized pieces and arrange them on skewers for an easy-to-eat party treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to a week, allowing you to enjoy this classic treat whenever a peanut butter craving hits.
Freezing
If you want to keep your No Bake Reese’s Peanut Butter Bars Recipe bars longer, wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap then place them into a freezer-safe container or bag. They freeze beautifully for up to 2 months and thaw quickly at room temperature.
Reheating
These bars are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t usually necessary. However, if you prefer a softer texture, let them sit on the counter for about 15 minutes before eating to take the chill off.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful texture to your bars, giving each bite a little extra crunch from the nuts.
What can I substitute for graham cracker crumbs?
If you don’t have graham crackers on hand, you can use crushed digestive biscuits or even crushed vanilla wafers for a similar base with a slightly different flavor.
Is there a way to make these bars gluten-free?
Yes! Just swap the graham cracker crumbs for your favorite gluten-free crackers or gluten-free graham crumbs, and you’ll have a gluten-free version of this delicious treat.
Can I use peanut butter chips instead of chocolate chips?
While peanut butter chips would add extra peanut buttery flavor, using semi-sweet chocolate chips balances the bars nicely with chocolate. Feel free to experiment with a mix of both for a twist.
How long do these bars take to set properly?
Chilling in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes is usually sufficient for the bars to firm up well. If your fridge is particularly cold, you can leave them a little longer to ensure perfect slices.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a treat that’s easy to whip up and pleases everyone — and this No Bake Reese’s Peanut Butter Bars Recipe definitely fits that bill. Whether you’re making it for a last-minute party, a family snack, or just because you deserve a little sweet joy today, these bars hit all the right notes with their creamy, chocolatey, peanut butter goodness. Give this recipe a try and soon you’ll see why it has such a special place in so many dessert lovers’ hearts.
Print
No Bake Reese’s Peanut Butter Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
These No Bake Reese’s Peanut Butter Bars combine a rich peanut butter base with a smooth chocolate topping and crunchy Reese’s Pieces for a deliciously easy treat that requires no oven time. Perfect for quick preparation and satisfying peanut butter lovers.
Ingredients
Base
- 2 cups finely crushed graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup melted butter (2 sticks)
- 1 cup smooth peanut butter
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
Topping
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup smooth peanut butter
- 3/4 cup Reese’s Pieces
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Start by spraying a 9×12-inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray; set aside.
- Make the Base Mixture: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, peanut butter, and powdered sugar, mixing until smooth.
- Form the Base Layer: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared 9×12-inch pan.
- Melt Chocolate and Peanut Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and 1/4 cup peanut butter in the microwave using 15-second intervals, stirring well between each, until completely melted and smooth.
- Top the Bars: Spread the melted chocolate-peanut butter mixture evenly over the peanut butter base layer. Then, sprinkle the Reese’s Pieces evenly on top.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the bars for 30 minutes to allow them to set. Once chilled, cut into 12 squares. Serve cold or at room temperature.
Notes
- Ensure the peanut butter used is smooth for easier mixing and spreading.
- If preferred, the chocolate can be melted using a double boiler instead of the microwave.
- The bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- For softer bars, allow them to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
- Use non-stick spray or line the pan with parchment paper to allow easier removal of the bars.
