A Midwestern classic that always vanished first from the potluck table. These rich, salty-sweet bars layer a creamy peanut butter filling with a glossy chocolate topping, all without ever turning on the oven. Passed down through generations, they’re the perfect treat for any gathering—or just a quiet moment with a glass of cold milk.
Makes: 16-24 bars
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Ingredients
For the Peanut Butter Layer:
1 cup (2 sticks / 225g) unsalted butter, melted
2 cups (200g) graham cracker crumbs (about 14 full sheets)
2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
1 cup (250g) smooth peanut butter (not natural style)
For the Chocolate Topping:
1 ½ cups (265g) semisweet chocolate chips
¼ cup (65g) smooth peanut butter
Instructions
1. Make the Peanut Butter Base:
In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, and 1 cup of peanut butter.
Stir until a thick, uniform dough forms. The mixture should hold together when pressed.
2. Press into the Pan:
Line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal.
Transfer the peanut butter mixture to the prepared pan. Press it firmly and evenly into the bottom using the back of a measuring cup or your hands.
3. Prepare the Chocolate Topping:
In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and the remaining ¼ cup of peanut butter.
Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each, until the mixture is completely smooth and glossy (about 1–1½ minutes total). Alternatively, melt together in a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of gently simmering water.
4. Assemble and Chill:
Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the peanut butter base. Tilt the pan gently or use an offset spatula to spread it into an even layer.
Refrigerate, uncovered, for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate is completely set.
5. Slice and Serve:
Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the whole slab from the pan and place it on a cutting board.
Cut into squares or rectangles with a sharp knife. For clean cuts, wipe the knife blade with a warm, damp towel between slices.
Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Tips & Serving Ideas
For Clean Slices: For picture-perfect bars, allow them to sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes after chilling before cutting.
Add Some Crunch: Stir ½ cup of chopped peanuts or roasted peanuts into the peanut butter base before pressing into the pan.
Make Them Fancy: Sprinkle the warm chocolate topping with flaky sea salt, crushed pretzels, or additional graham cracker crumbs before chilling.
Storage: Keep bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Enjoy a taste of heartfelt, homemade comfort.
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