Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares

Name: Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 12 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 cup graham cracker crumbs; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Delightful Desserts

I absolutely love making Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares when I'm craving something sweet but also want a delightful balance of flavors. These bars combine the rich taste of chocolate with the creamy, nutty flavor of peanut butter, creating a luscious treat that’s perfect for any occasion. They're incredibly easy to whip up and require no baking, which is a big win in my book. The simplicity allows you to enjoy a decadent dessert without the fuss of spending hours in the kitchen!

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2026-02-07T21:19:36.657Z

When I first decided to make Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares, I was skeptical about how well the flavors would blend. But after trying various ingredient combinations, I found that the perfect ratio of chocolate to peanut butter truly makes a difference. I recommend using natural peanut butter for a creamier texture and pure chocolate for a rich flavor.

One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is how versatile it can be. You can add ingredients like crushed pretzels or nuts for a crunchy texture or a sprinkle of sea salt on top to enhance the sweetness. It always turns out delicious and is a big hit at gatherings!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy peanut butter
No-bake recipe that comes together in just minutes
Perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings
Easily customizable with different toppings and mix-ins

Perfect Texture Every Time

Achieving the right texture in these Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares is essential to their success. The combination of creamy peanut butter and graham cracker crumbs creates a sturdy yet soft base that holds together beautifully. It’s crucial to mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure that the mixture is cohesive and prevents it from crumbling after chilling. Aim for a dough-like consistency that is firm enough to hold its shape when pressed into the baking pan.

When pressing the mixture into the pan, make sure to use a straight-edged utensil to create a smooth and even surface. This not only ensures a professional look but also guarantees that the chocolate layer will stick properly. If the mixture feels too crumbly, a small splash of milk can help bind it without compromising flavor.

Mastering the Chocolate Top

Melting chocolate can sometimes be tricky, but using the microwave method with short increments of time is reliable. Heat the chocolate chips for 30 seconds at a time, stirring in between, and stop once they’re nearly melted; residual heat will continue to melt the chocolate. This prevents overheating and seizing, which can lead to a gritty texture and ruin your topping. If you find the chocolate too thick to spread, a tablespoon of coconut oil can provide a silky smooth finish.

For a decorative touch, consider adding toppings like crushed nuts, flaked sea salt, or even a drizzle of caramel on top before the chocolate hardens. These extra elements enhance not only the visual appeal of your bars but also add delightful textures and flavors that complement the rich chocolate and nutty peanut butter.

Ingredients

For the Squares

1 cup creamy peanut butter
1 cup powdered sugar
1 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup chocolate chips

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, powdered sugar, and graham cracker crumbs. Mix until well combined and a dough-like consistency forms.

Press Into the Pan

Line an 8x8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper. Transfer the peanut butter mixture into the pan and press down evenly to create a flat layer.

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and fully melted.

Top the Squares

Pour the melted chocolate over the pressed peanut butter layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Optionally, sprinkle a bit of sea salt on top.

Chill and Cut

Refrigerate for about 1 hour or until the chocolate has completely set. Once firm, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut into squares.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, you can mix some chopped nuts into the peanut butter layer or use milk chocolate for a sweeter topping.

Variations and Customizations

The beauty of Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares lies in their versatility. Feel free to experiment with different types of nut butter, such as almond or cashew butter, to create unique flavor profiles. You can also substitute the graham cracker crumbs with crushed cookies or gluten-free alternatives to cater to dietary needs. Just be mindful of the sweetness level; adjusting powdered sugar may be necessary based on your choice of crust.

To give your squares a fruity twist, try adding mini chocolate chips or dried fruits like cranberries or raisins into the peanut butter mixture before pressing it into the pan. The added bits not only improve the flavor but can also provide interesting textures that set your squares apart.

Storage Tips

To maintain the freshness of your Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to two weeks if properly sealed, but I suggest indulging sooner to enjoy their optimum flavor and texture. For longer-term storage, these squares can be frozen. Just layer them between sheets of parchment paper before placing them in a freezer-safe container to prevent sticking.

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen squares, transfer them to the refrigerator to thaw for a couple of hours or simply leave them at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows them to soften slightly, enhancing the creamy peanut butter flavor and making the chocolate topping silky smooth once again.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead?

Yes, crunchy peanut butter will add a nice texture to the squares!

→ How should I store these squares?

Store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Absolutely! Freeze them for up to 2 months. Just wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.

→ What can I use instead of graham cracker crumbs?

You can substitute with crushed digestive biscuits or even oatmeal for a gluten-free option.