Decadent Peanut Butter Bliss Bars
Indulge in the rich, velvety layers of our Decadent Peanut Butter Bliss Bars, a delightful alternative to traditional candy that’s sure to impress even the pickiest of eaters. These homemade treats feature a perfectly balanced combination of crunchy graham cracker crust, creamy peanut butter filling, and a luscious milk chocolate topping, making them a crowd favorite at any gathering. Not only are they a delicious treat, but they also make for perfect gifts during the holiday season or any special occasion. Once you taste these, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought again!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Graham cracker crumbs
1 1/2 cups (Crushed, for use as base)
Powdered sugar
2 cups (Sifted, to sweeten filling)
Unsalted butter
1 cup (Softened, to incorporate)
Creamy peanut butter
2 cups (Smooth, for filling)
Milk chocolate chips
12 ounces (For melting and topping)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and powdered sugar until well mixed.
2
Add the softened unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter to the dry mixture. Stir until smooth and fully combined.
3
Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9x13 inch ungreased pan, creating a flat layer.
4
In a double boiler over medium heat, melt the milk chocolate chips until smooth and creamy. You can also use the microwave by heating in short intervals, stirring frequently until melted.
5
Once the chocolate is fully melted, pour it over the peanut butter layer in the pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly over the top.
6
Refrigerate the bars for 25 to 35 minutes, or until the chocolate is set. For best results, keep the bars chilled or store them in a cool area if taking them out of the fridge.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Decadent Peanut Butter Bliss Bars?
They are rich, velvety layered treats featuring a graham cracker crust, creamy peanut butter filling, and a milk chocolate topping.
Is this a no-bake recipe?
Yes, these bars are a no-bake dessert that sets in the refrigerator rather than being cooked in an oven.
How many ingredients do I need?
You only need 5 ingredients: graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, unsalted butter, creamy peanut butter, and milk chocolate chips.
What size pan should I use?
This recipe is designed for a 9x13 inch ungreased pan.
How long do the bars need to refrigerate?
The bars should be refrigerated for 25 to 35 minutes, or until the chocolate layer is completely set.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
While the recipe calls for creamy peanut butter for a smooth filling, you can use crunchy if you prefer added texture.
How should I store these bars?
For best results, keep the bars chilled in the refrigerator or store them in a very cool area to maintain their structure.
What is the best way to melt the chocolate chips?
You can use a double boiler over medium heat or heat them in the microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently.
Do I need to grease the pan?
No, the recipe specifies using an ungreased pan for pressing the peanut butter mixture.
Are these bars suitable for holiday gifts?
Yes, they make excellent homemade gifts for the holiday season or any special occasion.
Can I substitute the milk chocolate with dark chocolate?
Yes, you can use dark chocolate chips or semi-sweet chips if you prefer a less sweet topping.
How do I prepare the graham cracker crumbs?
You can use pre-crushed crumbs or crush whole graham crackers until they reach a fine, sandy consistency.
Should the butter be melted or softened?
The recipe calls for softened unsalted butter to be mixed into the dry ingredients.
How much powdered sugar is required?
You will need 2 cups of sifted powdered sugar for the filling.
Can I use salted butter?
While the recipe specifies unsalted, you can use salted butter if you enjoy a slightly salty-sweet flavor profile.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to combine the graham cracker crumbs and powdered sugar in a large mixing bowl until well mixed.
How much chocolate is needed for the topping?
The topping requires 12 ounces of milk chocolate chips.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, simply replace the graham cracker crumbs with a gluten-free graham cracker alternative.
How do I get clean cuts when slicing the bars?
Let the bars sit at room temperature for a few minutes before cutting, or use a warm knife to slice through the chocolate.
Can I freeze these peanut butter bars?
Yes, these bars freeze well when stored in an airtight container or wrapped tightly.
What is the texture of the peanut butter layer?
The filling is smooth and creamy, balanced by the slight crunch of the graham cracker crumbs.
How much peanut butter is used in the recipe?
The recipe requires 2 cups of creamy peanut butter.
Why should I sift the powdered sugar?
Sifting helps remove any lumps, ensuring the filling is perfectly smooth and consistent.
Can I use a microwave to melt the chocolate?
Yes, the instructions mention using the microwave in short intervals as an alternative to a double boiler.
Is this recipe easy for beginners?
Yes, it is classified as an easy recipe with simple steps and no baking required.
How long will these bars stay fresh?
When kept refrigerated, these bars can stay fresh and delicious for up to two weeks.
Can I add extra toppings?
Yes, you can sprinkle sea salt or crushed nuts on the chocolate before it sets for added flavor.
What if the peanut butter mixture is too crumbly?
Ensure your butter is fully softened and you have measured the peanut butter accurately to bind the dry ingredients.
How much graham cracker crumbs are needed?
You will need 1 1/2 cups of crushed graham cracker crumbs.
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Standard creamy peanut butter is recommended for the best stability, as natural versions may be too oily.