Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares: Irresistibly Rich & Creamy No-Bake Treat!
Craving a dessert that’s equal parts luxurious and effortless? These chocolate peanut butter squares deliver silky, fudgy layers with a satisfying crunch, all without turning on your oven. Inspired by retro candy bars but refined for modern palates, this recipe uses pantry staples like dark chocolate, peanut butter, and toasted nuts for a treat that’s irresistibly rich and creamy. Perfect for gifting, parties, or sneaking a midnight bite!
Crafting Perfect Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just five ingredients and no baking required, these squares come together in minutes. Peanut butter and butter form a velvety base, while dark chocolate chips add depth and a glossy finish. Toasted pecans or almonds provide a nutty contrast, balancing the sweetness. Unlike fussy desserts, this one thrives on minimal effort—ideal for beginners or busy bakers.
Tools & Ingredients
To craft this masterpiece, you need to have the following:
Tools
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Medium Saucepan: For melting the peanut butter, butter, and chocolate smoothly.
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Mixing Bowl & Whisk/Heatproof Spatula: To combine ingredients evenly without clumps.
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9×13-Inch Baking Pan: Creates the perfect thickness for slicing (use an 8×8 pan for thicker squares).
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Parchment Paper: Lines the pan for easy removal and cleanup.
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Measuring Cups & Spoons: Ensures precise ratios for the creamy texture.
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Refrigerator: Essential for setting the squares (no oven required!).
Ingredients
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Base Layer:
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1 cup creamy peanut butter (unsweetened)
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½ cup unsalted butter
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½ cup granulated sugar or keto sweetener (e.g., erythritol)
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2 tsp vanilla extract
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Topping:
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¾ cup dark chocolate chips (70% cocoa)
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½ cup pecans or almonds (crushed into small pieces)
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Melt the Base
In a saucepan over low heat, melt peanut butter and butter, stirring until smooth. Avoid boiling to prevent separation.
2. Sweeten & Flavour
Add sugar/sweetener and vanilla extract, whisking until fully dissolved (2-3 minutes).
3. Add Chocolate
Remove from heat. Stir in chocolate chips until melted and silky.
4. Layer & Chill
Pour the mixture into a parchment-lined 9×13-inch pan. Sprinkle crushed nuts evenly over the top, pressing gently. Refrigerate for 2+ hours.
5. Slice & Serve
Lift the slab from the pan using parchment. Cut into 12 squares (or 24 bite-sized pieces).
Irresistibly Rich & Creamy Texture Secrets
The rich and creamy texture hinges on two key steps: gently melting the peanut butter-butter mixture to avoid graininess and using high-quality chocolate. Dark chocolate (70% cocoa) balances the sweetness, while a splash of vanilla enhances the nutty aroma. For extra silkiness, let the melted chocolate cool slightly before mixing to prevent seizing.
Pro Tips:
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Toast Your Nuts: 5 minutes in a dry pan deepens their flavour.
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Chill Thoroughly: Let squares sit for at least 2 hours for clean slices.
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Layer Smartly: Press nuts into the surface after pouring the mixture to prevent sinking.
Why This Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares Recipe Works
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Peanut Butter Ratio: 1 cup PB ensures a bold, creamy base without overpowering.
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Dark Chocolate: 70% cocoa balances sweetness and adds sophistication.
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Texture Play: Crunchy nuts contrast with the smooth layers.
Serving & Storage
Serve Room temperature for softer squares, chilled for firmer bites. Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week (freeze for 3 months). As a Gift Idea, stack squares in a mason jar with parchment between layers.
These chocolate peanut butter squares are proof that indulgence doesn’t require hours in the kitchen—irresistibly rich and creamy, they’re a foolproof treat for any sweet tooth. Share them at potlucks, pack them in lunchboxes, or savor one with your afternoon coffee. Snap a photo and tag us @devinedishes—we’ll feature your masterpiece!
You can also try these desserts
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The Best Moist Chocolate Cake Recipe
Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup sugar or sweetener of choice
- 2 tsp vanilla essence
- 3/4 cup dark chocolate 70% or semi-sweet
- 1/2 cup pecan or almond pieces (crush pecans with pestle and mortar or quickly blend into small to medium pieces.
Instructions
- Melt the peanut butter and butter in a saucepan over low heat.
- Add the sugar/ sweetener and vanilla to the saucepan and mix well until everything dissolves.
- Add the chocolate chips and mix well
- Pour the mixture into a lined 9x13-inch baking pan and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle the pecan or almond pieces to the square and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until the chocolate has hardened
- Once the chocolate has hardened, remove the pan from the refrigerator and cut the peanut butter squares into 12 pieces
