Vegan Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars Recipe
Delicious and creamy Vegan Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars with a rich peanut butter base and a smooth dairy-free chocolate topping. These no-bake bars are easy to prepare, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while keeping everything vegan-friendly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
Base Layer:
- 1 cup vegan butter, melted
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 cups cookie crumbs (graham crackers or other similar cookie)
Chocolate Topping:
- 12 ounces dairy free chocolate chips (1 bag)
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Line a 9×13 inch pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides to make it easy to lift the bars out once set.
- Make the base: Melt the vegan butter and transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Add 1 cup creamy peanut butter and mix thoroughly until smooth and combined. Stir in the powdered sugar until fully integrated. Add the cookie crumbs in two portions, mixing well after each addition. The mixture will be thick, so use your hands if needed to combine everything evenly.
- Form the bottom layer: Scoop the thick peanut butter mixture into the prepared pan. Press it down firmly and evenly to create the base layer of the bars. Set aside while you prepare the topping.
- Prepare the chocolate topping: In a small pot, combine the dairy-free chocolate chips and 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter. Heat over low to medium heat, stirring frequently until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat immediately once melted.
- Assemble the bars: Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the peanut butter base layer in the pan. Use a spatula or spoon to spread it evenly over the surface.
- Chill to set: Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the chocolate topping is firm.
- Serve: To cut the bars neatly and avoid cracking the chocolate, run a large sharp knife under hot water, wipe it dry, and slice. Repeat warming the knife before each cut. You may also let the bars sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before cutting to make slicing easier.
- Storage: Cover leftover bars and keep refrigerated for up to 1 week. They can also be frozen for longer storage and make a convenient quick sweet treat or a tasty lunchbox addition.
Notes
- Using parchment paper with overhang helps remove the bars easily from the pan.
- Cookie crumbs can be graham crackers or similar biscuit cookies for texture and flavor.
- You can use your hands to mix the thick peanut butter mixture to ensure even incorporation.
- Warm the knife before slicing to get clean cuts without cracking the chocolate topping.
- These bars can be enjoyed chilled or slightly softened at room temperature.
- Freeze the bars for up to 3 months for longer storage.
