peanut butter bars recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
peanut butter bars recipe
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The Best peanut butter bars recipe

I’ve been making peanut butter bars for years, and they’re always a hit with my family. I love how easy they are to make – just a few simple ingredients and you’re done.

The best part is that they’re perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a quick snack, a dessert for a party, or even just a fun treat for the kids after school. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and this recipe is one of their favorites because it’s so easy to follow and fun to make.

Plus, it’s great for using up old peanut butter that’s been sitting in the pantry for too long – I mean, who doesn’t love a good excuse to use up a pantry staple? As I’ve made this recipe countless times, I’ve learned that the key is to get the texture just right – not too crumbly, not too gooey.

It’s all about finding that perfect balance between crunch and chew. And let me tell you, once you get it right, it’s pure magic.

I’ve experimented with different types of nut butter and even added some chocolate chips to the mix, but the classic peanut butter bars are still my favorite. There’s something about the way the peanut butter and oats come together that just feels like home to me.

And my kids love them because they’re basically a giant cookie bar – what’s not to love about that?

Peanut Butter Bars

Peanut Butter Bars

4.9 from 1937 votes

These peanut butter bars are a delightful treat with a rich, nutty flavor and a perfect balance of sweetness and saltiness. They are easy to make and perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 16Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 300 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Crust

1 cup butter
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1 cup powdered sugar

For the Filling

1 1/2 cups peanut butter
2 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup butter
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Topping

1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
3-4 tbsp milk
1 tsp vanilla extract

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and set aside.
3In a mixing bowl, combine the butter, graham cracker crumbs, and powdered sugar for the crust.
4Mix until well combined.
5Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan.
6Bake for 10 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
7Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
8In a separate mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla extract for the filling.
9Mix until smooth and creamy.
10Spread the filling evenly over the cooled crust.
11Melt the chocolate chips in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth.
12Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the peanut butter layer.
13Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until the chocolate is set.
14In a mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract for the topping.
15Mix until smooth.
16Spread the topping evenly over the set chocolate layer.
17Refrigerate for an additional 30 minutes or until the topping is set.
18Cut the bars into squares and serve chilled.
19Enjoy your peanut butter bars.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking pan
Spatula
Oven
Saucepan

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 300 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 25mg🧂Sodium: 250mg🌾Total Carbs: 32g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 29g🥩Protein: 5g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute almond butter for a different nutty flavor.

Watch Video Of How Peanut Butter Bars Works

These peanut butter bars are always a good idea – whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a fun treat for kids after school, or even just a delicious dessert for a special occasion.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how well they freeze – simply thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to serve.

And if you want to get fancy, try reheating them in the oven with some additional chocolate chips on top (because everything is better with chocolate!)

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Peanut Butter Bars

What is the best type of peanut butter to use?

I swear by creamy peanut butter for this recipe – it gives the bars a richer flavor and helps them hold together better. That being said, if you prefer crunchy peanut butter or want to try something different, go for it! Just be aware that it might change the texture slightly.

Can I substitute oats with another grain?

While oats are traditional in this recipe, you can definitely experiment with other grains like almond flour or coconut flakes if you want to mix things up. Just keep in mind that the flavor might be slightly different and adjust your sweetener accordingly.

How do I store these bars?

Once cooled completely, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze them for longer storage. When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven (more on that below).

Can I add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?

Absolutely! In fact, I highly recommend adding some chocolate chips or chopped nuts to give these bars an extra boost of flavor and texture. Just be sure to adjust your sweetener accordingly if using chocolate chips.

Do these bars need refrigeration?

Only if you live in a super hot climate or plan on storing them for more than 5 days – otherwise, they’re perfectly fine at room temperature.

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