Get ready to experience the most decadent, mouth-watering dessert that combines the irresistible duo of chocolate and peanut butter in one incredible treat! These Chocolate Peanut Butter Layer Bars are not just a dessert; they're a culinary masterpiece that will have everyone begging for your secret recipe. Imagine a crispy graham cracker base, topped with creamy peanut butter and a luxurious chocolate layer that melts in your mouth - this is dessert heaven that you can create right in your own kitchen!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, unsweetened cocoa powder, and powdered sugar. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
- Pour melted butter into the dry ingredient mixture and stir until the mixture becomes crumbly and holds together when pressed.
- Transfer the crumb mixture into the prepared baking pan. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to press the mixture firmly and evenly across the bottom of the pan.
- In a separate microwave-safe bowl, warm the peanut butter for 20-30 seconds until it becomes slightly runny. Pour the peanut butter evenly over the graham cracker base.
- Sprinkle chocolate chips across the peanut butter layer, ensuring even distribution.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges begin to look set and slightly crispy.
- Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle chopped peanuts over the top while the chocolate is still warm.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan at room temperature for about 1 hour, or refrigerate for faster setting.
- Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut into 16 even squares using a sharp knife.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.
Tips
- For the most consistent texture, use a kitchen scale to measure ingredients precisely.
- Make sure your melted butter is slightly cooled before mixing with dry ingredients to prevent clumping.
- When pressing the graham cracker base, use the back of a measuring cup for an even, compact layer.
- Warm the peanut butter gently to ensure smooth, even spreading.
- For a more intense chocolate flavor, use high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate chips.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean, crisp edges.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the bars from drying out.
- For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle melted chocolate or sprinkle sea salt on top before serving.
- These bars can be frozen for up to 2 weeks if wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag.
- Serve at room temperature for the best texture and flavor experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 15mg
