If you’re on the hunt for a showstopping treat that comes together in minutes and tastes just like your favorite candy, these Reese’s peanut butter no bake bar squares are for you. Imagine a buttery graham cracker crust, a sweet peanut butter filling, and a thick chocolate topping , all without ever turning on the oven. Whether you’re making dessert for a crowd or sneaking a late-night bite, this recipe is a must-try. Let me guide you through every step so your bars look and taste like pure peanut butter perfection.
If you’re obsessed with no-bake desserts like I am, be sure to check out my No Bake Twix Bars recipe too, another fun, candy bar classic you can make at home.
The Story & Connection
Memory and Meaning
Growing up in Pennsylvania, there was always a pack of Reese’s in the kitchen snack drawer. My mom’s legendary dessert tray often included her own version of peanut butter bars, so making these Reese’s peanut butter no bake bar treats brings back waves of nostalgia. Every bite feels like a return to childhood gatherings, birthday parties, and late-night movie marathons with my sisters. Now, in my Brooklyn kitchen, these bars are my secret weapon for potlucks and holiday tables. I believe desserts have the power to connect us to people and moments, no matter where we are.
Kitchen Context and Emotion
Mixing the flavors I loved as a kid with my own grown-up twists in the kitchen always brings me comfort. The first time I tried making a Reese’s peanut butter no bake bar, I underestimated how satisfying it would be to skip the oven yet deliver big wow-factor flavor. For city dwellers with hot summers or anyone with a crowded oven, these bars are a blessing. Each time I slice into the chilled, chocolatey top and see that golden graham crust underneath, I feel a little spark of joy. And let’s be honest, knowing you can have an iconic Reese’s-inspired treat in under 15 minutes? That’s pure happiness.
Ingredients List
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Salted butter, melted | 1 cup |
| Graham cracker crumbs | 2 cups (about 28 whole crackers) |
| Powdered sugar | 2 cups |
| Peanut butter | 1 ¼ cups (divided) |
| Semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips | 1 ½ cups |
Unique or Sensory Ingredients
The secret graham crust makes every Reese’s peanut butter no bake bar slightly crunchy, invoking classic cheesecake bar vibes paired with the nutty richness of peanut butter. For extra wow, use a high-quality peanut butter. Natural-style peanut butters yield a deeper roasted flavor, while classic creamy options echo that signature Reese’s taste you crave in each no bake bar. The salted butter adds a layered complexity, ultimately balancing all the sweetness. If you prefer a richer chocolate taste, go with semi-sweet chips. Prefer a milkier, creamier bite? Opt for milk chocolate chips instead for the perfect Reese’s peanut butter no bake bar experience.
Smart Substitutions + Health
This Reese’s peanut butter no bake bar is flexible and forgiving. Swap out regular graham crackers for gluten-free ones to make the bars celiac friendly. Trying to lighten things up? Use powdered monkfruit or a 1:1 sugar substitute. If you crave more crunch, crunchy peanut butter is a terrific swap. To make it vegan, simply swap in dairy-free butter and vegan chocolate chips. You can even play with almond or cashew butter for a different twist, though it won’t taste exactly like a Reese’s. Here’s a quick table of easy swaps:
| Original Ingredient | Substitute | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Graham cracker crumbs | Gluten-free graham crumbs | Same texture, celiac safe |
| Powdered sugar | Powdered monkfruit or stevia | Lower sugar, same sweetness |
| Creamy peanut butter | Crunchy peanut butter | Adds extra crunch |
| Semi-sweet chocolate chips | Dairy-free or dark chocolate | Vegan or richer flavor |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Detailed Steps with Tips
- Mix the base: In a large mixing bowl, stir together the melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, and 1 cup of peanut butter. Mix until smooth and uniform, there should be no visible dry spots.
- Press into pan: Transfer the peanut butter mixture into a greased 9×13-inch pan. Press the mixture evenly into the pan, gently smoothing the top with a spatula or the back of a spoon. For super tidy edges, line your pan with parchment first.
- Make the chocolate layer: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the remaining ¼ cup of peanut butter and all the chocolate chips. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring after each, until the chocolate melts and blends into the peanut butter.
- Spread the topping: Pour the melted chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the base. Use a spatula to spread it into every corner and edge so each piece has an even chocolate layer.
- Chill to set: Refrigerate the pan for at least one hour, or until the chocolate is completely set and the bars feel firm to the touch. For neat squares, chill for 2 hours before cutting with a sharp knife.
Make-ahead tip: You can let the bars sit overnight in the fridge if needed!
Mistakes to Avoid
- Using warm butter: If your butter is too hot, it can melt the sugar and make the crust greasy. Let the melted butter cool for a few minutes before mixing into your Reese’s peanut butter no bake bar base.
- Skipping parchment: For easy removal and clean cuts of your Reese’s peanut butter no bake bars, don’t skip lining your pan with parchment paper.
- Overheating chocolate: Always microwave chocolate in short intervals and stir after each, as chocolate burns quickly and can affect the texture of your no bake bars.
- Cutting too early: Wait until your Reese’s peanut butter no bake bars are completely set for neat, professional-looking squares.
Serving, Storing, and Variations
Creative Serving Suggestions For Reese’s peanut butter no bake bar
These Reese’s peanut butter no bake bar are always a crowd-pleaser, perfect for dessert tables, lunchboxes, or movie-night treats. For parties, cut into small squares or triangles and stack them high on rustic platters. For a touch of flair, sprinkle sea salt over the warm chocolate layer or add a drizzle of warmed peanut butter on top. Feeling fancy? Serve squares with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a tall glass of cold milk. For Halloween or holiday gatherings, use themed sprinkles or edible gold dust to decorate before the chocolate sets.
Storage Tips and Dietary Versions
Your Reese’s peanut butter no bake bar leftovers store beautifully. After they’re set, transfer squares to an airtight container. Place parchment between layers to prevent sticking. Refrigerate for up to 7 days, they’ll stay firm and fresh. Want to freeze? Wrap bars tightly in plastic, place in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving for best texture. Need dietary adaptations? Gluten-free graham crackers and dairy-free chocolate chips make this recipe inclusive for nearly everyone.
FAQs
Can I make Reese’s Peanut Butter No bake bar without graham crackers?
Absolutely! You can swap the graham cracker crumbs for crushed digestive biscuits, Nilla wafers, or gluten-free graham crackers if you want a wheat-free option. The crust might be slightly different in flavor, but it will still taste delicious and hold together well.
How do you store Reese’s peanut butter no bake bar and how long do they last?
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator, with parchment between layers. They’ll last up to 7 days. For longer storage, wrap and freeze the bars for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving to preserve the best texture.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy in no-bake bars?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter works perfectly and adds an extra nutty bite to your bars. The recipe texture will be a bit chunkier, but it’s a fun variation for peanut lovers.
What is the best chocolate topping for Reese’s Peanut Butter No bake bar?
Classic semi-sweet chocolate chips mixed with peanut butter yield a glossy, smooth topping that balances the sweetness of the filling. If you prefer a milkier flavor, use milk chocolate chips. For those wanting a darker, richer flavor, dark chocolate or dairy-free chocolate are both excellent.
Conclusion
These Reese’s peanut butter no bake bar squares are proof that you don’t need complicated steps or special skills for bakery-worthy results. The secret graham crust, creamy peanut butter, and glossy chocolate topping combine for timeless flavor, no oven required. Whether you’re sharing with a crowd or saving a secret stash for yourself, these bars are always a win. So why not treat yourself today? Try the recipe, then check out my no-bake cookie collection for more effortless desserts that never fail to impress. Happy no-baking from Brooklyn!
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Easy Reese’s Peanut Butter No bake bar – Secret Graham Crust
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
Description
These Reese’s Peanut Butter No bake bar are like a homemade hug for your sweet tooth. Creamy, chocolatey, and irresistibly rich, they’re the perfect treat when you need something quick, easy, and utterly satisfying. Think of them as your favorite candy bar, but made with love in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
1 cup salted butter, melted
2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 28 whole graham crackers)
2 cups powdered sugar
1 ¼ cups peanut butter, divided
1 ½ cups semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
Instructions
1. In a large mixing bowl, stir together the melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, and 1 cup of peanut butter until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
2. Press the peanut butter mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
3. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the remaining ¼ cup of peanut butter with the chocolate chips. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth.
4. Pour the chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the base layer in the pan, spreading it evenly to cover.
5. Refrigerate the bars for at least one hour to allow them to set before slicing and serving.
Notes
For a fun twist, try using crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
These bars freeze beautifully, wrap them individually for a quick treat anytime.
If you prefer a sweeter topping, use milk chocolate chips; for a richer flavor, go with semi-sweet.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 423
- Sugar: 25 g
- Sodium: 249 mg
- Fat: 29 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 32 mg