Description

Easy Peanut Butter Bars are a no-bake, quick-to-prepare sweet treat that combines creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and butter for a rich, chewy texture. Perfect for snacking, sharing, or a last-minute dessert, these bars require no oven and use simple pantry staples. Customizable with optional add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts, they deliver satisfying flavor in minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

1 cup creamy or chunky peanut butter
2 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Mix-ins

1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
1/2 cup toasted oats or crispy rice cereal (optional)
1 scoop protein powder (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture: Start by softening the butter in a mixing bowl, then add the peanut butter and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and creamy, ensuring everything is well combined for the best texture.
Incorporate the Powdered Sugar: Gradually mix in the powdered sugar. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to combine, pressing firmly to create a thick, dough-like consistency. This mixture should become pliable but not crumbly.
Add Optional Mix-Ins: If you want extra flavor or texture, fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or crunchy cereal now. These additions make each bite a little more exciting.
Press Into a Pan: Line a square baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Transfer the peanut butter mixture into the pan and press evenly with your hands or a spatula to create a smooth surface.
Chill Until Set: Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least one hour to firm up. This allows the bars to hold their shape and makes them easier to cut.
Cut and Serve: Once chilled, remove from the pan and slice into bars or squares. Serve immediately or keep refrigerated until ready to enjoy.

Notes

Use room temperature ingredients for smooth mixing and better texture.
Line the pan with parchment paper to make removing and cutting bars easier without sticking.
Press the mixture firmly into the pan to prevent crumbling when cutting.
Store the bars in an airtight container to maintain freshness and texture.
Experiment with different nut butters to add new flavors or accommodate allergies.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 210
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 120mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: peanut butter bars, no-bake dessert, easy peanut butter recipe, gluten free snack, quick sweet treat