Reese’s Peanut Butter No-Bake Bars:5-Ingredient Easy Dessert

Ever had one of those days where you just need a quick, chocolatey fix but the thought of turning on the oven is a hard no? Yeah, me too. That’s why these Reese’s Peanut Butter No-Bake Bars are about to become your new best friend. They’re everything you love about a classic Reese’s bar, but with zero effort mix, layer, chill, and devour.

My love for no-bake treats started in my grandmother’s kitchen. She was the queen of simple, yet unforgettable recipes, and watching her create magic without even glancing at a recipe card was mesmerizing. I remember sitting on the counter, little hands sticky with peanut butter, as she shared her secret: “The best treats don’t need to be complicated, just made with love.” These bars are my way of honoring her effortless way of bringing joy through food.

Why You’ll Love These Reese’s Peanut Butter No-Bake Bars

  • No oven needed! Perfect for hot days or when you’re just not in the mood to bake.
  • Minimal ingredients. We’re talking peanut butter, chocolate, butter, and graham crackers. That’s it.
  • Tastes like a Reese’s Cup, but better. Because homemade always wins.
  • Great for sharing (or not, no judgment here!).
  • erfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a last-minute party, a potluck, or just a night of indulgence, these bars fit the bill.

Recipe Ingredients for These Reese’s Peanut Butter No-Bake Bars

  • 1 cup salted butter, melted
  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs, about 28 whole graham crackers
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 ¼ cup peanut butter, divided
  • 1 ½ cup semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips

(Looking for a different crust? Try the Perfect Graham Cracker Crust for Mini Cheesecakes for inspiration!)

How to Make Reese’s Peanut Butter No-Bake Bars

  1. Mix the Base: In a bowl, combine melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, and 1 cup of peanut butter. Stir until smooth.
  2. Press & Set: Press the mixture evenly into a greased or parchment-lined 9×13-inch pan. Pop it into the fridge while you prepare the chocolate topping.
  3. Make the Chocolate Layer: Melt the chocolate chips and remaining ¼ cup peanut butter together (microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring each time until smooth).
  4. Spread & Chill: Pour the chocolate mixture over the peanut butter base and spread evenly. Return the pan to the fridge for about an hour until the bars are firm.
  5. Slice & Enjoy! Once set, cut into squares and try not to eat them all in one sitting.
See also  Irresistible White Chocolate Strawberry Truffles: 5 Minute Joy

Tips for the Best Reese’s Peanut Butter No-Bake Bars

  • Use high-quality peanut butter for the creamiest, dreamiest texture. If you want a high-protein version, check out these Healthy Protein Desserts.
  • Chill long enough. If you rush the process, the bars won’t hold together as well.
  • Run a sharp knife under warm water before slicing for clean, even cuts.
  • For an extra crunch, try using crushed pretzels instead of graham crackers in the base.
  • If you love texture, sprinkle some chopped peanuts or sea salt on top of the chocolate before it sets.
  • Want to mix it up? Try white chocolate instead of milk chocolate for a fun twist.

Variations & Substitutions for the Best Reese’s Peanut Butter No-Bake Bars

One of the best things about these bars is how easy they are to customize. Here are some fun ways to change things up:

  • Crunchy vs. Creamy: If you’re a fan of texture, use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy.
  • Different Crackers: No graham crackers? Try using crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even Oreos.
  • Healthier Swap: Use natural peanut butter and reduce the sugar for a less sweet treat.
  • Nut-Free Option: Swap out the peanut butter for almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.
  • Double the Chocolate: Add a bottom layer of melted chocolate before the peanut butter base for extra indulgence.

If you’re a fan of easy, no-bake recipes, you’ll love this Easy Mini Cheesecake Recipe (No-Bake). It’s just as simple and delicious!

FAQs for the Best Reese’s Peanut Butter No-Bake Bars

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes! If you love a little texture in your bars, go for it.

See also  Easy Mini Cheesecake Recipe (No Bake)

How do I store these bars?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Can I swap milk chocolate for dark chocolate?
Absolutely! If you prefer a richer, less sweet flavor, dark chocolate is a great choice.

So, next time you need a quick dessert that hits all the right notes-peanut buttery, chocolatey, and oh-so-satisfying these Reese’s Peanut Butter No-Bake Bars will be waiting. Enjoy!i

Conclusion

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how nostalgic it feels. The peanut butter and chocolate combo takes me straight back to childhood afternoons spent sneaking extra candy from the pantry. Every time I make these bars, I think of my grandmother and the warmth of her kitchen. She never needed a fancy dessert to make an impact a few simple ingredients, a little creativity, and a whole lot of love.

I love that I can now pass these kinds of recipes on to my own family, sharing the same comforting flavors in an easy, no-fuss way. That’s the beauty of simple recipes like these no stress, just pure enjoyment.

So, next time you need a quick dessert that hits all the right notes peanut buttery, chocolatey, and oh-so-satisfying these Reese’s Peanut Butter No-Bake Bars will be waiting. And if you’re in the mood for something chocolatey and decadent, you’ll love this Chocolate Cream Cheese Pound Cake.

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Reese's Peanut Butter No-Bake Bars

Reese’s Peanut Butter No-Bake Bars:5-Ingredient Easy Dessert


  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (includes chilling time)
  • Yield: 24 bars 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These Reese’s Peanut Butter No-Bake Bars are the perfect chocolate and peanut butter treat—no oven required! With just 5 simple ingredients, they come together in minutes for a rich, creamy, and indulgent dessert. Perfect for potlucks, parties, or a quick sweet fix at home!

See also  Pumpkin Mini Cheesecake Recipe: A Delightful Fall Treat

Ingredients

Scale

For the Base:

  • 1 cup salted butter, melted
  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 28 whole graham crackers)
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 cup peanut butter

For the Chocolate Topping:

 

  • 1 ½ cups semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
  • ¼ cup peanut butter

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Base:
    In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, and 1 cup of peanut butter. Stir until smooth and well combined.

  2. Press & Set:
    Press the mixture evenly into a greased or parchment-lined 9×13-inch pan. Place it in the refrigerator while you prepare the chocolate topping.

  3. Melt the Chocolate:
    In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips and the remaining ¼ cup of peanut butter in 30-second bursts, stirring between each until smooth.

  4. Spread & Chill:
    Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the peanut butter base, spreading evenly. Return the pan to the fridge for at least 1 hour until the bars are firm.

  5. Slice & Serve:
    Once set, cut into squares using a sharp knife. Serve and enjoy your delicious no-bake bars!

Notes

  • For cleaner cuts, run a sharp knife under warm water before slicing.
  • Chill thoroughly before cutting; this helps the layers stay intact.
  • Want extra crunch? Try using crushed pretzels instead of graham crackers.
  • Healthier option: Use natural peanut butter and reduce the sugar slightly.
  • Make it nut-free! Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter or almond butter.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes (No baking required!)
  • Category: Dessert, Snacks
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 22g
  • Sodium: 120mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: Reese’s Peanut Butter No-Bake Bars, no-bake peanut butter bars, chocolate peanut butter squares, easy no-bake dessert, homemade Reese’s bars, peanut butter chocolate bars

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