Decadent Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars

Decadent Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars

Ingredients:

For the Base:

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (about 9-10 full graham crackers)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Chocolate Layer:

• 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter

Optional Toppings:

• Crushed peanuts
• Sea salt flakes

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Base:
   • Line the Pan: Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal.
   • Crush the Graham Crackers: Place the graham crackers in a food processor and pulse until they form fine crumbs. Alternatively, place them in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
   • Mix the Base Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, 1 cup of peanut butter, and melted butter. Stir until well mixed and the mixture is smooth.
   • Press the Base: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Press it firmly and evenly into the bottom of the dish to form the base layer. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to smooth it out.
2. Prepare the Chocolate Layer:
   • Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and 1/4 cup of peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth. This should take about 1-2 minutes total.
   • Spread the Chocolate: Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the peanut butter base layer in the baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
3. Optional Toppings:
   • Add Toppings: If desired, sprinkle crushed peanuts and a few flakes of sea salt over the chocolate layer for extra texture and flavor.
4. Chill the Bars:
   • Refrigerate: Place the baking dish in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate is set and the bars are firm.
5. Serve:
   • Cut into Bars: Once the bars are set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out of the baking dish. Place them on a cutting board and cut into squares or rectangles using a sharp knife.
   • Store: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to one week.

Tips:

• Peanut Butter Choice: For a smoother base and chocolate layer, use creamy peanut butter. If you prefer a bit of texture, you can use chunky peanut butter.
• Melting Chocolate: Be careful not to overheat the chocolate in the microwave. Stirring between intervals helps prevent burning and ensures even melting.
• Layering: Make sure the base layer is well compacted to prevent crumbling when cutting the bars.
• Cutting Bars: For clean cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. You can also dip the knife in hot water and dry it off before cutting to make slicing easier.

Enjoy your decadent Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars!