Ben Kenwood June 22, 2026

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Peanut Butter Sandwich Bars

Name: Peanut Butter Sandwich Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 14 whole graham cracker sheets; 2 cups creamy peanut butter; 8 tbsp softened butter; 2 tsp vanilla extract; ½ tsp salt; 3½ cups powdered sugar; 4 tbsp shortening; 4 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

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Indulging in a sweet treat that captures the essence of comfort is something we all cherish. Peanut Butter Sandwich Bars are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re planning a family gathering, a potluck, or simply looking for an after-school snack. The combination of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate makes these bars irresistible, inviting everyone to take just one more bite. If you love chocolate and peanut butter together, you’re in for a delightful surprise!

Reasons to Love Peanut Butter Sandwich Bars

These Peanut Butter Sandwich Bars offer so much more than just flavor; they evoke nostalgia and simplicity. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore this treat:

The easy-to-make layered dessert requires no baking, saving you time and effort.
Each bar features a delightful crunch from graham crackers, perfectly balanced by creamy peanut butter.
They are versatile enough to please both kids and adults alike.
Ideal for make-ahead snacks or desserts that hold up well in the fridge.

What You’ll Need

Let’s gather the essential ingredients that will help us create this delicious treat. Each item plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture:

14 whole graham cracker sheets
2 cups creamy peanut butter
8 tbsp softened butter
2 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp salt
3½ cups powdered sugar
4 tbsp shortening
4 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to swap in different nut butters or sweeteners if desired.

Method

Now, let’s dive into the simple step-by-step process of bringing these bars together:

Spray an 8½ x 11 glass baking dish with non-stick spray to ensure easy removal.
Crush two graham cracker sheets into fine crumbs and set them aside for later.
In a mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Gradually add in the powdered sugar until the mixture is well blended and smooth.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with the shortening, using 30-second intervals and stirring until the chocolate is silky and smooth.
Layer six whole graham crackers at the bottom of the dish, creating a solid base.
Pour one-third of the melted chocolate over the crackers, allowing it to coat them nicely.
Spread the peanut butter mixture evenly on top of the chocolate layer.
Repeat the layering process with another third of the melted chocolate, adding six more graham crackers, followed by the remaining chocolate.
Sprinkle the crushed graham cracker crumbs over the top for added texture.
Chill the dish in the refrigerator for at least one hour before cutting into squares.

With just a touch of care, these bars will come together beautifully! Prep ~15 minutes, Cook ~5 minutes, Total ~1 hour and 20 minutes, Servings ~12 squares, Kcal ~320 (estimate only).

Plan Ahead

You’ll love how convenient these bars are to prepare in advance. You can easily make them the night before a gathering or holiday party. Simply store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator after they’ve set. This way, they’ll be ready for when you need a sweet treat or an easy dessert option.

Storing and Reheating

To keep your Peanut Butter Sandwich Bars fresh, store them in the refrigerator, where they can last up to a week. If you plan on enjoying these bars later, you can also freeze them for longer storage. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge, and they’ll taste as wonderful as fresh!

Perfect Pairings

To enhance your experience with these bars, consider serving them alongside:

A warm cup of milk or hot chocolate
Fresh fruit, like strawberries or bananas, for a refreshing contrast
A scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert
A sprinkle of sea salt on top to elevate the flavors

Make It Your Own

There are so many fun ways to customize your Peanut Butter Sandwich Bars. Here are some ideas to inspire your creativity:

Swap out the semi-sweet chocolate chips for white chocolate or dark chocolate for a different flavor profile.
Add a layer of sliced bananas between the graham crackers and peanut butter mixture for a fruity twist.
Sprinkle crushed nuts, like peanuts or almonds, on top for added crunch.
Use crunchy peanut butter in place of creamy for an exciting texture variation.
Experiment with different flavored extracts, such as almond or coconut, for a unique taste.

Pro Tips for Best Results

To ensure the best outcome with your Peanut Butter Sandwich Bars, keep these tips in mind:

Make sure to use softened butter for a smooth and creamy peanut butter mixture.
Crush the graham crackers into even crumbs to ensure a consistent texture throughout.
Allow the bars to chill for at least one hour; this helps them set properly for cutting.
Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water to slice the bars for clean edges.

Your Questions Answered

Here are some common questions about making these tasty Peanut Butter Sandwich Bars:

Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, natural peanut butter can be used, though it may result in a slightly different texture.
How long do these bars last?
In the refrigerator, they should last about a week, and you can freeze them for up to three months.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful texture to the bars.
What if I don’t have graham crackers?
You can substitute with crushed digestive biscuits or another type of cookie as a base.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, by using gluten-free graham crackers, you can easily adapt the recipe.

Wrapping Up

Peanut Butter Sandwich Bars are a delightful treat that combines rich flavors and satisfying textures, making them a favorite among friends and family. Their simplicity and versatility allow for endless creativity, so don’t hesitate to make them your own. Whether enjoyed on a cozy evening at home or shared at a gathering, these bars are sure to bring smiles to everyone. If you’re looking for more peanut butter-inspired treats, check out these No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars for another easy dessert option! For a healthier snack alternative, try these Banana Peanut Butter Oatmeal Balls as well. Happy baking!

Peanut Butter Sandwich Bars

Author: anastasia-rice
Total Time: 80 minutes
Yield: 12 squares 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in these easy-to-make no-bake Peanut Butter Sandwich Bars that combine creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

14 whole graham cracker sheets
2 cups creamy peanut butter
8 tbsp softened butter
2 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp salt
3½ cups powdered sugar
4 tbsp shortening
4 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

Spray an 8½ x 11 glass baking dish with non-stick spray to ensure easy removal.
Crush two graham cracker sheets into fine crumbs and set them aside for later.
Combine the creamy peanut butter, softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt in a mixing bowl. Gradually add in the powdered sugar until the mixture is well blended and smooth.
Melt the chocolate chips with the shortening in a microwave-safe bowl, using 30-second intervals and stirring until the chocolate is silky and smooth.
Layer six whole graham crackers at the bottom of the dish, creating a solid base.
Pour one-third of the melted chocolate over the crackers, allowing it to coat them nicely.
Spread the peanut butter mixture evenly on top of the chocolate layer.
Repeat the layering process with another third of the melted chocolate, adding six more graham crackers, followed by the remaining chocolate.
Sprinkle the crushed graham cracker crumbs over the top for added texture.
Chill the dish in the refrigerator for at least one hour before cutting into squares.