If you’re craving a dessert that checks every box—creamy, crunchy, chocolaty, and utterly irresistible—let me introduce you to Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares. This no-bake treat captures that unbeatable duo of rich cocoa and salty nutty goodness, all wrapped up in a bar that’s blissfully easy to make. You’ll adore how the graham crackers add crunch, while a thick layer of dreamy chocolate crowns everything to perfection. Whether you need a showstopping potluck dessert, an after-school snack, or simply a “treat yourself” moment, these squares deliver big flavor with minimal fuss.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares is how they rely on a handful of pantry staples, each one contributing something essential. From creamy peanut butter for richness to graham crumbs for that irresistible texture, these ingredients come together for pure magic.

Peanut Butter (1 cup, creamy): The backbone of the bars, providing unmatched creaminess and deep peanut flavor. Make sure it’s well-stirred for best results.
Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup, melted): Adds moisture and helps the base set together perfectly, with a mellow buttery taste.
Powdered Sugar (2 cups): Ensures a smooth, sweet base that practically melts in your mouth—plus, it helps bind everything.
Graham Cracker Crumbs (1 1/2 cups): Give the foundation a gentle crunch and delicate toastiness, making each bite extra satisfying.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (1 1/2 cups): Melted for the topping, these provide the rich chocolate flavor that balances the whole bar.
Creamy Peanut Butter (2 tablespoons, for topping): Mixed into the chocolate layer, this extra bit of peanut butter keeps the chocolate velvety and adds an addictive swirl of flavor.

How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Leave some paper hanging over the edges—it’ll act as handy handles for lifting out your Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares later. This little extra step is a lifesaver when it’s time to slice.

Step 2: Mix the Peanut Butter Base

In a large bowl, blend together the melted butter, creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and graham cracker crumbs. Stir until you see no streaks and the mixture is completely smooth. At this stage, sneak a taste (chef’s privilege!)—it should be nutty, sweet, and a little bit sandy from the crumbs.

Step 3: Press and Level

Scrape the peanut butter mixture into your lined pan. Press it down firmly with a spatula or even the bottom of a measuring cup, making sure you get an even, compact layer. The tighter you pack it, the better the bars will hold together after chilling.

Step 4: Make the Chocolate Topping

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and 2 tablespoons of peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second spurts, stirring after each, until everything is glossy and melted. The extra peanut butter makes this topping ultra-smooth and keeps it from turning too hard in the fridge.

Step 5: Spread and Chill

Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the peanut butter base. Use a spatula to smooth it out all the way to the edges for a perfectly even top. Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours or until the chocolate is set and the base is firm. This wait can feel endless, but it’s absolutely worth it!

Step 6: Slice and Devour

Once chilled, use the parchment overhang to lift the entire block out of the pan. For clean, sharp squares, run a knife under hot water, dry it off, and slice into 16 even pieces. Admire your work and prepare for cheers from anyone lucky enough to snag a square!

How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares

Garnishes

A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a drizzle of extra melted chocolate across the top adds an elegant finish and a little pop of flavor. Crushed roasted peanuts or white chocolate shavings are also wonderful for a bit of visual flair and extra crunch.

Side Dishes

Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares are bold and rich, so they shine when paired with lighter sides. Serve them with a bowl of fresh berries, zippy citrus segments, or a scoop of vanilla frozen yogurt. For a special treat, try them with a tall glass of cold milk or an iced coffee.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack squares on a pretty platter lined with wax paper for a rustic party dessert display, or place each one in a festive cupcake liner for a grab-and-go treat. They also make a thoughtful homemade gift—just nestle them in a decorated tin or cellophane bag tied with a ribbon.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These bars are the definition of low-maintenance! Store any uneaten Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to a week—if they last that long! The cool environment also ensures the chocolate layer remains beautifully firm.

Freezing

Need to save treats for later? Freeze the squares in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container separated by parchment paper. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight or set them out at room temperature for an hour before serving.

Reheating

Thanks to their no-bake nature, Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares don’t require reheating. If you’d like a softer texture or want to enjoy that just-made taste, leave them out at room temperature for about 10 minutes. That’s all it takes for the chocolate to become slightly fudgy and the base irresistibly soft.

FAQs

Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Chunky peanut butter adds lovely bits of roasted peanuts for extra crunch and character. Just be sure to pack the base firmly so the bars hold together nicely.

What’s the best way to cut even Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares?

For perfect slices, use a large sharp knife run under hot water and wiped dry between cuts. The warm blade glides through the cold chocolate layer, preventing cracks and crumbs while giving you those bakery-worthy edges.

Can I use a different type Dessert

Definitely! Swap out the semi-sweet chips for milk chocolate if you want something sweeter, or dark chocolate for a deeper cocoa hit. You could even try white chocolate for a fun twist, though it may set a bit softer.

Do I need to bake any of the layers?

No baking required! The beauty of Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares is their simplicity—just mix, assemble, and chill. They’re a lifesaver on hot days or whenever you want something fun without heating up the oven.

How can I make these gluten-free?

Simple swap: use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs in place of regular. Just double-check all your other ingredients, and you’ll have delicious gluten-free squares everyone can enjoy.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a magical combination of salty, sweet, creamy, and crunchy, these Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares are your next must-try. They’re as fun to share as they are to eat, and honestly, nothing beats seeing them disappear—square by square—at your table. Dive in and let me know how you like them!

Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 28 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 16 squares 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the perfect blend of chocolate and peanut butter with these delectable no-bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares. A simple yet irresistible treat that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!

Ingredients

Scale

Peanut Butter Layer:

1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 cups powdered sugar
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs

Chocolate Topping:

1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter

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Instructions

Prepare Peanut Butter Layer: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. In a bowl, mix melted butter, peanut butter, powdered sugar, and graham cracker crumbs until smooth. Press mixture into dish.
Make Chocolate Topping: Melt chocolate chips and peanut butter in intervals, then pour over the peanut butter layer.
Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for 2 hours until firm. Cut into squares and enjoy!