Get ready to experience a dessert that's about to revolutionize your sweet tooth cravings! These Peanut Butter Pie Bars with Chocolate are not just a treat - they're a decadent journey of creamy, rich flavors that combine the irresistible duo of peanut butter and chocolate in a way that will make you weak in the knees. Imagine a crisp graham cracker base, topped with silky smooth peanut butter, and finished with a luxurious chocolate ganache that melts in your mouth - this is dessert perfection that's surprisingly easy to make!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring the paper overhangs on two sides for easy removal.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix thoroughly until the crumbs are completely moistened and resemble wet sand.
- Press the graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed measuring cup to create a compact, smooth base.
- In another bowl, whisk together peanut butter and powdered sugar until smooth and well combined. The mixture should be thick and creamy.
- Spread the peanut butter mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust, creating a uniform layer.
- In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and pour over chocolate chips in a separate bowl.
- Let the cream and chocolate sit for 2-3 minutes, then whisk until smooth and glossy to create a ganache.
- Pour the chocolate ganache over the peanut butter layer, using a spatula to spread it evenly to the edges.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are set and the chocolate looks slightly firm.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely at room temperature for about 1 hour.
- Once cooled, refrigerate for an additional 1-2 hours to allow the bars to set completely.
- Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the bars out of the pan and cut into 12 even squares.
- Serve chilled and store any remaining bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips
- For the smoothest peanut butter layer, use room temperature ingredients and whisk the peanut butter and powdered sugar thoroughly.
- When making the ganache, use high-quality chocolate chips for the most luxurious finish. Dark or semi-sweet chocolate works best for balanced sweetness.
- Ensure your graham cracker crust is well-compacted to create a sturdy base that holds together when cutting.
- Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry for clean, precise cuts when portioning your bars.
- For an extra touch of decadence, sprinkle some sea salt or chopped peanuts on top of the chocolate layer before chilling.
- Always allow the bars to cool completely and chill thoroughly to achieve the perfect texture and easy cutting.
- These bars can be made ahead of time and are actually even better after sitting in the refrigerator overnight, making them perfect for advance preparation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 35mg
