No-Bake Lunch Lady Peanut Butter Bars (Print Version)
Chewy peanut butter graham cracker bars topped with glossy chocolate, chilled until firm and sliced into nostalgic cafeteria-style squares.
# Ingredients:
For the peanut butter base
01 -
1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, melted
02 -
1 1/2 cups (390 g) creamy peanut butter
03 -
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
04 -
1/2 teaspoon fine salt
05 -
2 cups (170 g) fine graham cracker crumbs
06 -
2 cups (240 g) powdered sugar
For the chocolate topping
07 -
1 3/4 cups (300 g) semisweet chocolate chips
08 -
2 teaspoons coconut oil or 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
09 -
Flaky salt for topping, optional
# Instructions:
01 -
Line a 9x13-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two sides for lifting out the bars later.
02 -
In a large bowl, stir together the melted butter, creamy peanut butter, vanilla, and fine salt until smooth.
03 -
Add the graham cracker crumbs and powdered sugar. Stir until fully combined and thick, with no dry streaks at the bottom of the bowl.
04 -
Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Press firmly into an even layer using a spatula or the bottom of a measuring cup. Chill while you make the topping.
05 -
Combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring after each, until smooth and melted.
06 -
Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter base and spread evenly. Add flaky salt if using. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, until firm.
07 -
Lift the chilled slab from the pan. Cut into 24 squares with a sharp warm knife, wiping the blade between cuts for clean edges.
# Notes:
01 -
Chill at least 2 hours before slicing for neat bars.
02 -
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
03 -
Freeze tightly wrapped bars for up to 2 months for best texture.