Chocolate Peanut Butter Sandwich Bars
I stumbled upon this recipe last winter when I was craving something sweet but substantial. The combination of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate layered between graham crackers creates these incredible bars that taste like they came from a fancy bakery. If I could choose any dessert bar in the history of bars, these may be THE bars!
Equipment
- 9-inch square baking pan
- parchment paper
- Large mixing bowl
- electric mixer
- small saucepan
- Spatula
- sharp knife
Ingredients
- 14 sheets Graham crackers You'll need whole sheets to create perfect layers.
- 2 cups Creamy peanut butter I prefer using natural peanut butter for its rich flavor, but any creamy variety works.
- 8 tablespoons Butter, softened Room temperature butter will blend more easily with the peanut butter.
- 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract Pure vanilla extract brings out the sweetness beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt Just enough to enhance the flavors without making it salty.
- 3 cups Powdered sugar Sift if lumpy for the smoothest filling.
- 4 tablespoons Shortening This helps the chocolate set with just the right texture - not too hard or soft.
- 4 cups Semi-sweet chocolate chips The semi-sweet chocolate balances the sweetness of the peanut butter layer perfectly.
Instructions
- Line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later. My neighbor taught me this trick years ago, and it makes removing bars so much easier!
- In a large bowl, beat together the peanut butter, softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt until completely smooth and creamy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer. Don't rush this step - the smoothness of this mixture determines the texture of your finished bars.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, about 1 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition until fully incorporated. The mixture will become quite thick - that's exactly what you want! It should hold its shape when pressed.
- Arrange 7 graham cracker sheets in a single layer on the bottom of the prepared pan. You may need to break some to fit perfectly. This creates that wonderful crispy base that contrasts with the creamy filling.
- Spread half of the peanut butter mixture evenly over the graham crackers. I find using an offset spatula makes this much easier. Press down gently to create an even layer.
- Place another layer of 7 graham cracker sheets on top of the peanut butter layer, then spread the remaining peanut butter mixture on top of the crackers. The first time I made these, I rushed this step and ended up with uneven layers. Take your time for the best presentation!
- In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate chips with the shortening, stirring constantly until completely smooth. Be careful not to overheat - chocolate can seize if it gets too hot. I've learned this the hard way!
- Pour the melted chocolate over the top layer and spread it evenly with a spatula. Give the pan a gentle tap on the counter to help the chocolate settle into a smooth, even layer.
- Allow the bars to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours until the chocolate is completely set. In my kitchen, I find that overnight chilling gives the best results as it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Once set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire block out of the pan. With a sharp knife, cut into 16 squares. For the cleanest cuts, I wipe the knife with a warm, damp cloth between slices.
Notes
These chocolate peanut butter sandwich bars are best stored in the refrigerator and will keep for up to a week - though they rarely last that long in my house! My daughter has started helping me make them, carefully spreading the chocolate over the top, creating food memories that will last far longer than the bars themselves. For a twist, try using different flavored chips like butterscotch or white chocolate for the topping, or add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the chocolate while it's still warm for a sweet-salty contrast.