Are you a peanut butter lover looking for new and creative ways to enjoy your favorite spread? Look no further! Peanut butter bars are a delicious and satisfying treat that can be enjoyed at any time of day. From classic combinations with chocolate frosting to innovative twists with jelly or banana, there’s a peanut butter bar recipe out there for everyone.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 creamy peanut butter bar recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet and indulgent or healthy and wholesome, we’ve got you covered. So grab your mixing bowls and let’s get started on our journey through the wonderful world of peanut butter bars!
Classic Peanut Butter Bars with Chocolate Frosting
Classic Peanut Butter Bars with Chocolate Frosting: A sweet and satisfying treat that combines the richness of peanut butter with the decadence of chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
3. Add flour and salt; mix until well combined.
4. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Allow bars to cool completely before frosting with chocolate (see below).
7. Melt chocolate chips in microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
Chocolate Frosting:
– 1 cup melted chocolate chips
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Mix together and spread over cooled bars.
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
No-Bake Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars
These chewy bars are a perfect snack or dessert option, requiring no cooking and minimal prep time. Made with rolled oats, creamy peanut butter, and sweet honey, these treats are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate chips (optional)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats and peanut butter until well mixed.
2. Add the honey and mix until smooth and creamy.
3. If using chocolate chips, fold them into the mixture.
4. Press the mixture into a lined or greased 8×8-inch baking dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: None! These bars are no-bake, so simply refrigerate and enjoy.
Vegan Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars
These rich and chewy bars are a perfect treat for anyone with a sweet tooth. Made with peanut butter, chocolate chips, and rolled oats, they’re also vegan-friendly!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (make sure it’s free from animal products)
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup coconut sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semisweet vegan chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon non-dairy milk (such as almond or soy milk)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together oats, peanut butter, maple syrup, coconut sugar, and baking powder until well combined.
3. Stir in chocolate chips and non-dairy milk until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
4. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown around the edges.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gluten-Free Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these easy-to-make Gluten-Free Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars, perfect for a quick snack or dessert. Made with simple ingredients and no baking required!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup gluten-free oats
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup jam (such as grape or strawberry)
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, gluten-free oats, and honey. Mix until smooth.
2. Stir in jam and chopped peanuts until well combined.
3. Press mixture into a lined or greased 8×8-inch baking dish.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
5. Cut into bars and serve.
Cooking Time: None (no baking required!)
Peanut Butter Banana Protein Bars
These no-bake protein bars combine the creamy goodness of peanut butter, the natural sweetness of bananas, and the power of protein-rich ingredients to fuel your active lifestyle.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup almond flour
– 1/4 cup protein powder (your choice of flavor)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine bananas and peanut butter. Blend until smooth.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, almond flour, and protein powder.
3. Add the banana-peanut butter mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
4. Mix in honey and salt until a dough forms.
5. Press the dough into a lined or greased 8×8 inch baking dish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
7. Cut into bars (about 12-16) and store in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: None! These no-bake bars are ready in just a few minutes of prep time.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Peanut Butter Banana Protein Bars!
Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Bars
Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with these indulgent treats that combine the best of both worlds – rich chocolate and crunchy peanut butter. These bars are perfect for a quick snack or as a dessert to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup chopped peanuts
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Add melted butter and stir until combined. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
3. Melt peanut butter in a microwave-safe bowl for 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
4. Spread peanut butter over crust. Top with chocolate chips and chopped peanuts.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chocolate is melted and bubbly.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treat Bars
A classic twist on the beloved childhood treat, these peanut butter Rice Krispie bars combine creamy peanut butter with crunchy cereal for a deliciously addictive snack.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 12 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or saucepan, melt the butter and peanut butter over low heat, stirring occasionally.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the powdered sugar until dissolved.
3. Add the Rice Krispies cereal to the pot and stir until evenly coated with the peanut butter mixture.
4. Press the mixture into a 9×9-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until firm.
6. Cut into bars and serve.
Cooking Time: None required! These bars are best served chilled, straight from the refrigerator.
Peanut Butter and Honey Granola Bars
These no-bake granola bars combine the creamy richness of peanut butter with the sweetness of honey, making them a perfect snack for on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds work well)
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine oats, nuts, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, mix peanut butter, honey, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
4. Press mixture into a lined or greased 8×8 inch baking dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
6. Cut into bars and store in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: None! These no-bake granola bars are ready in under 10 minutes.
Peanut Butter Coconut Bars
Peanut Butter Coconut Bars: A sweet treat that combines the richness of peanut butter with the tropical flavor of coconut.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 cup rolled oats
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together peanut butter, softened butter, and confectioners’ sugar until smooth.
3. Stir in shredded coconut, salt, and honey until well combined.
4. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
7. Cut into bars and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Peanut Butter Caramel Pretzel Bars
These chewy bars combine the richness of peanut butter with the crunch of pretzels and the gooeyness of caramel. Perfect for a quick snack or dessert, these bars are easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups pretzel rods, crushed
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together crushed pretzels, peanut butter, and sugar until well combined.
3. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave (30-second intervals, stirring between each interval).
6. Pour melted chocolate over the pretzel mixture and drizzle with caramel sauce.
7. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Peanut Butter Swirl Brownie Bars
A rich and gooey brownie bar recipe with a swirl of peanut butter goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, plus more for greasing the pan
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan with butter.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. Melt the butter in a separate bowl. Add the peanut butter and whisk until smooth.
4. Pour half of the brownie mixture into the prepared pan. Top with the peanut butter mixture, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Dollop the remaining brownie mixture on top of the peanut butter layer.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely in pan before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Peanut Butter Maple Syrup Bars
These chewy bars combine the richness of peanut butter with the sweetness of maple syrup, perfect for a sweet treat or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream peanut butter and butter until smooth. Gradually add maple syrup and sugar; beat until combined.
4. Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Press the dough into the prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Let cool completely in pan before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Peanut Butter Cookie Dough Bars
These chewy bars are packed with peanut butter cookie dough goodness and topped with a layer of chocolate. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, these bars are easy to make and always a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well combined. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, beat peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Spread over crust.
4. Melt chocolate chips in microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth. Pour over peanut butter layer.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peanut Butter Pumpkin Spice Bars
These gooey bars combine the comfort of peanut butter with the warmth of pumpkin spice, making them a perfect treat for autumn gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine peanut butter, pumpkin puree, and spices. Stir until smooth.
4. Add melted butter to the peanut butter mixture and stir until combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Press dough into prepared baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Peanut Butter M&M’s Blondie Bars
Peanut Butter M&M’s Blondie Bars Recipe
These chewy blondie bars are infused with the richness of peanut butter and the sweetness of M&M’s, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup M&M’s Minis, divided
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Beat in peanut butter and eggs until smooth.
5. Gradually mix in flour mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Stir in 1/2 cup M&M’s Minis.
7. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are lightly golden brown.
9. Remove from oven and sprinkle with remaining M&M’s.
10. Allow to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Peanut Butter White Chocolate Raspberry Bars
Peanut Butter White Chocolate Raspberry Bars: A sweet and tangy treat that combines the richness of peanut butter, the creaminess of white chocolate, and the tartness of raspberries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup fresh raspberries
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly mixture forms.
3. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. In a small bowl, mix peanut butter and honey until smooth. Spread over the crust.
5. Melt white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth. Pour over the peanut butter layer.
6. Top with fresh raspberries.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
Peanut Butter S’mores Bars
Take your s’mores game to the next level with these gooey, peanut-buttery bars that capture the essence of campfires and summertime fun.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup milk chocolate chips
– 1 cup marshmallows (mini or regular)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and peanut butter until well combined. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
3. Melt butter in microwave or on stovetop; pour over crust.
4. Top with chocolate chips and marshmallows. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until marshmallows are toasted and chocolate is melted.
5. Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Peanut Butter Chia Seed Energy Bars
These no-bake energy bars are packed with protein-rich peanut butter, fiber-filled chia seeds, and wholesome ingredients to keep you energized throughout the day. With just 7 ingredients and a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch of these tasty treats in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped nuts or shredded coconut for added texture
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats and peanut butter. Mix until smooth.
2. Stir in chia seeds and honey until well combined.
3. Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl (30-second increments, stirring between each interval). Let cool slightly.
4. Fold melted chocolate into the oat mixture until fully incorporated.
5. Press mixture into a lined or greased 8×8-inch baking dish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: None (no-bake)
Enjoy your delicious Peanut Butter Chia Seed Energy Bars!
Summary
Indulge in the creamy goodness of peanut butter with these 18 delicious bar recipes! From classic combinations like peanut butter and chocolate to unique twists like no-bake oatmeal bars, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re looking for vegan, gluten-free, or protein-packed options, this collection has it all. Try your hand at making peanut butter banana protein bars, chocolate peanut butter crunch bars, or even peanut butter s’mores bars – the possibilities are endless! With these recipes, you’ll be in peanut butter heaven.
