Delicious Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Bars – No-Bake Recipe
Looking for a no-bake dessert that combines the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and crunchy? Look no further than Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Bars. This quick and easy recipe layers crispy crackers with rich peanut butter and smooth chocolate, creating a treat that’s both satisfying and indulgent. Whether you’re preparing a dessert for a party or craving a sweet snack, these bars are sure to please.
Table of Contents
The Best Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Bars
Why are these bars the best? The magic is in the combination of textures. The crispy layers of Club crackers, paired with the smooth peanut butter and melted chocolate, create an unbeatable balance. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that requires no baking at all, making it perfect for any occasion.
Notes on Ingredients
- Club Crackers: These buttery crackers provide the salty, crispy base of the bars.
- Graham Crackers: Crushed to add a delightful texture and sweetness to the buttery filling.
- Butter: Gives richness and helps bind the ingredients together.
- Brown Sugar & Sugar: These add sweetness and help create a sticky, caramel-like filling.
- Milk: Adds creaminess and helps dissolve the sugars.
- Peanut Butter: A creamy layer that complements the chocolate and adds richness.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: For that classic chocolate topping that hardens perfectly when chilled.
How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Bars
- Line the Pan: Start by lining a 9 x 13 pan with foil and spray it with cooking spray. This prevents the bars from sticking.
- Layer the Crackers: Place a layer of Club crackers on the bottom of the pan.
- Prepare the Filling: In a saucepan, melt the butter. Add the crushed graham crackers, brown sugar, sugar, and milk. Bring it to a boil, and let it cook for 5 minutes while stirring occasionally.
- Layer the Filling: Pour half of the buttery mixture over the crackers. Add another layer of Club crackers and pour the remaining mixture on top. Finish with a third layer of crackers.
- Melt the Chocolate: In a separate pan, melt the chocolate chips and peanut butter together until smooth. Spread this mixture evenly over the top layer of crackers.
- Chill and Set: Cover the pan and chill for at least an hour to allow the bars to set. Once firm, cut them into squares and enjoy!
How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Bars
These bars are best served chilled. Cut them into squares or bars and serve them as a dessert or snack. They pair perfectly with a cold glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
How to Store Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Bars
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the bars in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Nutrition information
:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 461.46 kcal | 23% |
| Total Fat | 25.66 g | 37% |
| Carbs | 54.75 g | 21% |
| Sugars | 30.51 g | 34% |
| Protein | 6.05 g | 12% |
| Sodium | 278.11 mg | 14% |
| Fiber | 3.09 g | 11% |
| Saturated Fat | 11.22 g | 56% |
| Trans Fat | 0.02 g | – |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 8.33 g | – |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.52 g | – |
| Cholesterol | 31.29 mg | 10% |
| Calcium | 63.93 mg | 8% |
| Magnesium | 54.07 mg | 14% |
| Potassium | 215.93 mg | 6% |
| Iron | 1.97 mg | 14% |
| Zinc | 0.99 mg | 10% |
| Phosphorus | 155.56 mg | 22% |
| Vitamin A | 108.82 mcg | 14% |
| Vitamin C | 0 mg | 0% |
| Thiamin (B1) | 0.14 mg | 12% |
| Riboflavin (B2) | 0.15 mg | 11% |
| Niacin (B3) | 3.22 mg | 20% |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.14 mg | 10% |
| Folic Acid (B9) | 52.84 mcg | 26% |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.07 mcg | 3% |
| Vitamin D | 0.08 mcg | 2% |
| Vitamin E | 1.95 mg | 16% |
| Vitamin K | 7.46 mcg | 10% |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
FAQs About Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Bars
Can I use other crackers?
Yes, you can substitute Club crackers with Ritz or Saltines, but the buttery flavor of Club crackers is recommended for the best result.
Can I use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?
Absolutely! Dark chocolate will add a deeper, richer flavor.
Are these bars gluten-free?
You can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free crackers and checking that your graham crackers are gluten-free.
The Best Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Bars
Ingredients
- 1 box of Club crackers
- 1 box of Honey Maid Graham Crackers
- 1 cup 2 sticks butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2/3 cup peanut butter
Instructions
- Line an ungreased 9 x 13 pan with foil. Spray foil with cooking spray to prevent bars from sticking. Line the bottom of the pan with Club crackers.
- Crush graham crackers using a food processor.
- In a large sauce pan, melt butter. Add crushed graham crackers, brown sugar, sugar, and milk. Bring to a boil; let boil for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour 1/2 of the mixture over the crackers. Place another layer of crackers and spread the remaining butter mixture over the crackers. Top with a third layer of crackers.
- In a small sauce pan, melt chocolate chips and peanut butter over medium-low heat. Spread evenly over the crackers.
- Cover and chill for at least one hour before cutting to allow to set.
