No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars

Ingredients

• 2 cups (200g) graham cracker crumbs
• 2 cups (500g) creamy peanut butter, divided
• 1 cup (2 sticks / 226g) unsalted butter, melted, divided
• 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 cups (340g) semisweet chocolate chips
• 1 tsp flaky sea salt, for topping (optional)

Instructions

1. Line a 9x13-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two sides to lift the bars out later.
2. In a large bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, 1 1/2 cups of the peanut butter, 3/4 cup of the melted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt until fully combined and no dry crumbs remain - the mixture should look like thick, moldable dough.
3. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan, using the bottom of a measuring cup or your hands to smooth and compact it into a tight, even layer.
4. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips, remaining 1/2 cup peanut butter, and remaining 1/4 cup melted butter.
5. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring well between each, until completely smooth and glossy, about 90 seconds total - stopping to stir often prevents the chocolate from scorching.
6. Pour the chocolate mixture evenly over the peanut butter base and spread with an offset spatula to cover completely, right to the edges.
7. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt if using while the chocolate is still wet, so it sticks.
8. Refrigerate uncovered for at least 2 hours, until the chocolate layer is completely firm to the touch and no longer glossy-wet.
9. Lift the whole slab out of the pan using the parchment overhang and set it on a cutting board. Cut into 24 bars using a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between cuts for neat edges.

Nutrition

Calories	280
Protein	5.5 g
Fat	19.0 g
Carbs	25.0 g
Fiber	1.8 g
Sodium	180 mg

Nutrition information is an estimate per serving and is not a substitute for professional dietary advice.