Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Homemade Reese’s Bars are everything people love about the classic peanut butter and chocolate combination, but made fresher, richer, and even more satisfying at home. These bars have a thick, creamy peanut butter layer topped with a smooth chocolate coating that melts perfectly with every bite. I first made these when I wanted a no-bake dessert that felt indulgent without being complicated, and they quickly became a go-to treat. The balance between sweet, salty, and chocolatey is spot on, and the texture is far superior to packaged versions. Another reason to love this recipe is how simple it is. There is no oven required, no special equipment, and minimal cleanup. These bars are perfect for parties, holidays, gifting, or simply keeping in the fridge for when a sweet craving hits. Once you try them, it is hard to go back to store-bought candy.
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Homemade Reese’s Bars: Rich, Peanut-Buttery, and Better Than Store-Bought
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Rich, no-bake homemade Reese’s-style bars made with a creamy peanut butter filling and topped with a smooth chocolate layer.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (240 g) creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups (180 g) powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups (260 g) milk chocolate chips
- 1 tbsp coconut oil or butter (for chocolate topping)
Instructions
- Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix peanut butter, melted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Press the peanut butter mixture evenly into the prepared pan.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips with coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Pour melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer and spread evenly.
- Refrigerate for 1–2 hours until fully set.
- Lift from pan, cut into bars, and serve.
Notes
- Use creamy peanut butter for the smoothest texture.
- Store bars refrigerated for best firmness.
- Can be frozen for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ingredients Breakdown
Butter forms the base of the peanut butter layer and adds richness while helping the bars set firmly.
Peanut butter provides the signature flavor and creamy texture. A smooth, commercial-style peanut butter works best for stability.
Powdered sugar sweetens the peanut butter layer and gives it structure without graininess.
Graham cracker crumbs add body and a subtle crunch, keeping the peanut butter layer from being too soft.
Chocolate chips create the glossy, rich topping that contrasts beautifully with the peanut butter base.
Butter or oil, added to the chocolate, helps it melt smoothly and creates a softer bite when chilled.
Vanilla extract enhances the peanut butter flavor and adds warmth.
Salt balances sweetness and highlights the peanut butter.
Directions
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Begin by lining a square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides for easy removal.
In a large bowl, melt the butter gently and stir in the peanut butter until smooth. Add vanilla extract and salt, mixing well. Gradually stir in the powdered sugar and graham cracker crumbs until a thick, smooth mixture forms.
Press the peanut butter mixture evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place the pan in the refrigerator while preparing the chocolate layer.
In a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler, melt the chocolate chips with a small amount of butter or oil, stirring until smooth and glossy. Pour the melted chocolate over the chilled peanut butter layer and spread evenly.
Return the pan to the refrigerator and chill until fully set. Once firm, lift the bars out using the parchment paper and cut into squares.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 16 to 20 bars. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, with an additional 1 hour of chilling time.
Storage/reheating
Store Homemade Reese’s Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For a softer texture, allow them to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving. Reheating is not required.
Variations and Customizations
These bars are easy to customize. For a darker, less sweet topping, use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate. I tested this version and found it added a rich contrast to the peanut butter.
You can replace graham cracker crumbs with crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers for a slightly different texture. For added crunch, mix chopped peanuts into the peanut butter layer.
If you enjoy a sweeter filling, increase the powdered sugar slightly. For a saltier profile, sprinkle flaky salt over the chocolate layer before it sets. You can also add a thin middle layer of caramel for an extra-indulgent twist.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Homemade Reese’s Bars are a rich dessert high in fats and sugars, meant to be enjoyed in moderation. Peanut butter contributes protein and healthy fats, making small portions very satisfying.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Use Smooth Peanut Butter
Natural peanut butter can separate and affect texture.
Even Pressing
Press the base firmly to ensure clean slices.
Sharp Knife Cutting
Use a warm, sharp knife for neat edges.
FAQs
Do these need to be baked?
No, this is a completely no-bake recipe.
Can I use natural peanut butter?
It is not recommended, as it may be too oily.
Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to two months.
Why is my base crumbly?
It may need slightly more butter or firmer pressing.
Can I use white chocolate?
Yes, but it will be sweeter than traditional versions.
How thick should the bars be?
About one inch thick is ideal for balance.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger pan and adjust chilling time.
Are these kid-friendly?
Yes, they are very popular with kids.
Can I make them dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free butter and chocolate alternatives.
How long do they need to chill?
At least one hour for clean slicing.
Conclusion
Homemade Reese’s Bars are a simple, no-bake dessert that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Creamy peanut butter, smooth chocolate, and perfect sweetness make these bars an irresistible treat you will want to make again and again.
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