Craving that classic peanut butter and chocolate hit without even turning on your oven? This Reese’s Peanut Butter No-Bake Bars Recipe delivers all the nostalgia and indulgence of your favorite candy, but with a ridiculously easy, no-fuss method you can whip up anytime. Thick, rich peanut butter layers topped with a silky chocolate glaze—each bite tastes like a homemade treat made for sharing, yet it comes together faster than you can drive to the store for a packaged bar. Trust me, this is an irresistible dessert you’ll want on repeat.

Reese’s Peanut Butter No-Bake Bars Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What you see is what you get—this recipe is built on pantry staples that don’t skimp on flavor. Each ingredient has a starring role, whether it’s making the peanut butter pop or ensuring that signature creamy-meets-crunchy texture in every bite.

Creamy Peanut Butter: Smooth and classic, use a no-stir variety for the perfect blendability and rich peanut flavor.
Unsalted Butter, melted: This brings serious richness and helps make that dreamy, soft-yet-firm base.
Powdered Sugar: Adds sweetness and a silky finish that binds without grittiness.
Graham Cracker Crumbs: The secret to getting that classic dessert bar texture and a hint of toasty crunch.
Semisweet Chocolate Chips: Perfectly balances the sweetness, melting into a luscious, shiny topping.
Extra Creamy Peanut Butter for Topping: Makes the chocolate layer extra smooth and brings the peanut butter vibe into every bite.

How to Make Reese’s Peanut Butter No-Bake Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Butter Base

Grab your largest mixing bowl and toss in the melted butter, peanut butter, powdered sugar, and graham cracker crumbs. Stir it all together with a sturdy spatula (or your hands—no judgment!) until you have a thick, cohesive mixture. Press this dreamy peanut butter base evenly into a parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking dish, making sure the corners are packed in for perfectly shaped bars later on.

Step 2: Make the Chocolate Topping

It’s all about that glossy, chocolatey finish! Place your chocolate chips and extra peanut butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until everything melts down and stirs into a pourable, silky chocolate sauce that’ll make you want to lick the spoon.

Step 3: Assemble & Chill

Pour the chocolate-peanut butter topping right over the prepared base, using a spatula to spread it smoothly from edge to edge. Pop the whole tray in the fridge and forget about it for at least 2 hours (overnight is even better). The chilling sets the bars to sliceable perfection and lets the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 4: Slice & Serve

Patience, friend! Let the pan sit out for 5 minutes before you slice—this makes the chocolate layer cut cleanly. Cut into squares or bars of your preferred size, and get ready to be everyone’s favorite person at the party (or the kitchen counter).

How to Serve Reese’s Peanut Butter No-Bake Bars Recipe

Garnishes

You can keep things traditional, or top each bar with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, a few chopped roasted peanuts, or mini Reese’s candies for a playful twist that offers extra crunch and visual wow.

Side Dishes

Pair your Reese’s Peanut Butter No-Bake Bars Recipe with a tall glass of cold milk, hot coffee, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you want more variety on your dessert table, mix in chocolate-covered pretzels or fruit for contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the bars into small cubes for a sweet party platter, layer them with ice cream in parfaits, or package in a pretty box for homemade edible gifts. These bars look fabulous stacked in jars or displayed on cake stands at a dessert buffet—let your imagination run wild!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

The good news: these bars keep their texture and flavor incredibly well! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, layered with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They’ll stay fresh and chewy for up to a week, making them a perfect make-ahead treat.

Freezing

If you somehow end up with extras, these freeze beautifully. Arrange the bars in a single layer, separated with parchment paper in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They’ll keep for up to three months—just thaw in the fridge before enjoying.

Reheating

No reheating is needed for the Reese’s Peanut Butter No-Bake Bars Recipe, but if you’re craving a slightly melty chocolate top, microwave a bar for 10 seconds. Just watch closely, so it doesn’t start to melt away all that gorgeous texture.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely, if you love a bit of crunch in your bars! Just know the base will have more texture, and you may need to press it slightly firmer in the pan to hold its shape.

What’s the best way to cut neat squares?

For clean edges, run a sharp knife under hot water, wipe it dry, and cut smoothly through the chilled bars. Wipe the blade between each cut for the prettiest presentation.

Can I make this Reese’s Peanut Butter No-Bake Bars Recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just substitute the graham cracker crumbs with a gluten-free graham alternative or even crispy rice cereal for a fun twist.

Can I double this Reese’s Peanut Butter No-Bake Bars Recipe?

You sure can! Use a larger baking tray or two pans, and keep the ratios the same. This recipe scales up easily for crowds and parties.

Do I have to use semisweet chocolate chips?

Semi-sweet gives the classic flavor, but you can swap in milk or dark chocolate chips for your favorite chocolate intensity. Each one complements the creamy peanut butter base in its own way!

Final Thoughts

If you need a dessert that’s equal parts crowd-pleaser, nostalgic favorite, and no-stress to make, this Reese’s Peanut Butter No-Bake Bars Recipe hits the sweet spot. There’s a reason it’s a go-to recipe in so many kitchens—give it a try, and it might just become your new signature treat!