Fudgy Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars – A No-Bake Treat to Savor Anytime!

Before we dive into the rich, indulgent layers of this irresistible recipe, let me just say—thank you. Whether you’re here for the love of peanut butter, chocolate, or both (my kind of people!), I’m so grateful you landed on this cozy little corner of the internet. It means the world that you're taking a moment out of your day to share in something sweet with me.

And speaking of sweet... this no-bake Peanut Butter Chocolate Bar recipe is exactly that. Velvety, decadent, and unapologetically satisfying, it’s the kind of dessert that feels a little nostalgic and a lot indulgent. Just two distinct layers—dark, fudgy chocolate on the bottom, creamy peanut butter bliss on top. No baking, no fuss, no regrets!

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Why You’ll Love These Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars

These bars are the ultimate union of flavor and ease. Here’s what makes them a forever favorite:

• No oven required – Perfect for hot days or quick treats!

• Rich, decadent taste – Think Reese’s, but homemade and better.

• Make-ahead friendly – Store them in the fridge or freezer for snack emergencies (yes, it’s a thing).

• Two dreamy textures – The bottom is like a brownie fudge, and the top is pure peanut butter creaminess.

What Do They Taste Like?

Oh. My. Goodness. These bars taste like what dreams are made of—smooth, bittersweet chocolate perfectly balanced with nutty, slightly salty peanut butter. The contrast in flavor and texture between the two layers? Anything but boring!!

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Benefits of Making These Bars at Home

• Control the sweetness and ingredients – No preservatives, just real pantry staples.

• Allergy-friendly tweaks – Easily made gluten-free, dairy-free, or nut-free!

• Customizable – You can add crushed pretzels, sea salt flakes, or even swirl the layers if you’re feeling fancy.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

For the chocolate layer:

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter

• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 cup powdered sugar

For the peanut butter layer:

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 3/4 cup powdered sugar

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Tools You’ll Need

• 8x8-inch baking pan

• Parchment paper

• Microwave-safe bowls (or use a double boiler)

• Spatula

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Hand mixer (optional, but makes mixing smoother!)

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Ingredient Additions & Substitutions

Add-ins:

• Crushed graham crackers in the base for extra texture

• Sea salt flakes on top (highly recommend!)

• Mini chocolate chips or chopped peanuts for some crunch

Substitutions:

• Use almond butter or sunflower seed butter in place of peanut butter

• Coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version

• Maple syrup for a touch of natural sweetness

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How to Make Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep your pan.
Line your baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the chocolate layer.
Melt the chocolate chips and butter together in a microwave-safe bowl (30-second increments, stirring in between). Stir in cocoa powder, vanilla, and powdered sugar. Press this mixture evenly into the pan.

Step 3: Make the peanut butter layer.
Melt the peanut butter and butter in a bowl. Stir in vanilla and powdered sugar. Spread this layer carefully over the chocolate base.

Step 4: Chill.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm. Then slice into squares and marvel at the layers!

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What to Serve with These Bars

These bars are perfection on their own, but here are a few ideas:

• A cold glass of milk (or almond milk!)

• A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce

• Crumbled over vanilla ice cream for the ultimate sundae

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Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars

• Let the chocolate layer cool just slightly before adding the peanut butter to keep layers clean.

• Use parchment paper to lift out the bars before cutting – it makes slicing so much easier.

• A hot knife = clean cuts. Run it under warm water, wipe dry, and slice.

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Storage Instructions

These bars store beautifully:

• Fridge: Up to 1 week in an airtight container.

• Freezer: 2-3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before eating.

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General Information

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Chill time: 2 hours

• Yield: 16 bars (depending on size)

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but make sure it’s well-stirred and not too oily for best results.

Do I need to bake this at all?
Nope! This is a 100% no-bake recipe.

Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely. Use a 9x13 pan and double everything.

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Conclusion

These Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars are the kind of recipe you’ll make once and never stop thinking about. They’re simple, stunning, and downright addictive. Whether you’re prepping for a party, packing a lunchbox treat, or just having a chocolate-peanut-butter moment (we’ve all been there), these bars deliver every time.

Feeling the peanut butter vibes? 🥜 Check out these other peachy (and peanutty) faves:

• Peanut Butter Banana Oat Bars

• Chocolate-Dipped Peanut Butter Cookies

• No-Bake Peanut Butter Pie

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Leave a Review & Share Your Photos!

Made this recipe? I’d LOVE to see your creations! Share your photo on Pinterest or tag me on Instagram with #SweetLayeredLove so I can admire your masterpiece!

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Nutritional Information (Approx. per bar)

• Calories: 210

• Carbohydrates: 18g

• Protein: 4g

• Fat: 14g

• Sugar: 13g

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