Peanut Butter Chocolate Butterscotch Bars
When it comes to desserts, few things can beat the combination of peanut butter, chocolate, and butterscotch. These Peanut Butter Chocolate Butterscotch Bars are not just delicious; they are also incredibly easy to make. If you are looking for a sweet treat that doesn’t require any baking, you have found it! These bars are perfect for gatherings, family meals, or just a snack to enjoy at home.
The creamy peanut butter mixes perfectly with the sweet butterscotch and rich chocolate to create a dessert that everyone will love. If you enjoy quick and tasty treats, this recipe is for you!
Why you’ll love this recipe
There are many reasons to love these Peanut Butter Chocolate Butterscotch Bars. First, they are no-bake, which means you won’t have to spend hours in the kitchen or turn on your oven. This makes them perfect for hot days or when you want a quick dessert that won’t heat up your home.
Second, these bars are packed with flavor. The creamy peanut butter provides a nice richness, while the chocolate and butterscotch add a sweet touch that keeps you coming back for more. They have a great texture, too; soft yet firm enough to hold together nicely.
Finally, this recipe is very flexible. You can make a big batch for a gathering, or cut it down for a small family dessert. Plus, they are easy to store and transport, making them the perfect treat for potlucks or picnics.
How to prepare Peanut Butter Chocolate Butterscotch Bars
Making Peanut Butter Chocolate Butterscotch Bars is quick and straightforward. You’ll gather a few ingredients, mix them together, and then let them set in the fridge. Let’s get into the specifics.
Ingredients:
Here are the ingredients you will need to make these delicious bars:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup butterscotch chips
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions:
Follow these simple steps to whip up a batch of these tasty bars:
Prepare your pan: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
Melt the butter and mix in the peanut butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once it is completely melted, add the peanut butter. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Add the sweeteners: Stir in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract into the melted mixture. Mix until everything is well combined.
Combine the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and a pinch of salt. Stir well.
Mix everything together: Gradually add the graham cracker mixture to the peanut butter mixture. Stir until fully combined.
Melt the chips: In another bowl, heat the butterscotch chips and chocolate chips together in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until they are melted and smooth.
Assemble the bars: Spread half of the peanut butter graham cracker mixture into the baking dish. Then pour the melted butterscotch and chocolate mixture over it. Finally, spread the remaining peanut butter mixture on top.
Set in the fridge: Place the baking dish in the fridge for at least 2 hours or until the bars are firm.
Cut and serve: Once set, remove the bars from the dish and cut them into squares. Enjoy!
How to serve Peanut Butter Chocolate Butterscotch Bars
These bars can be served in a variety of ways. You can serve them plain as a simple snack or dessert. If you want to take it up a notch, consider drizzling some extra melted chocolate or butterscotch on top just before serving. Adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side also makes for a delicious pairing!
These bars work well at gatherings or parties. Place them on a platter and watch them disappear quickly. People love the combination of flavors and the rich texture. Kids will especially enjoy these bars, making them a great treat for birthday parties or school events.
How to store Peanut Butter Chocolate Butterscotch Bars
If you have any leftovers (though we doubt you will), storing these bars is simple. Keep them in an airtight container and place them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to a week when stored properly. If you want to enjoy them for a longer period, you can freeze them. Cut them into squares and place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. Store in a freezer-safe container, and they should last for up to three months!
Preparation tips for Peanut Butter Chocolate Butterscotch Bars
Use room temperature ingredients: This can help them mix better, especially the peanut butter. If your peanut butter is too hard, you can warm it up slightly in the microwave.
Crush the graham crackers finely: The finer the crumbs, the better they will bind and hold together in the bars.
If you want a sweeter bar: Consider adding a little extra powdered sugar to the peanut butter mixture.
Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add nuts, candy pieces, or different chips like white chocolate or dark chocolate to make your bars unique!
Variation
There are many ways to customize this recipe. Here are a few ideas:
Add toppings: Consider adding a layer of crushed peanuts, sprinkles, or even coconut flakes on top during the last 30 minutes of chilling for added texture and flavor.
Switch the nut butter: If you or your guests have a nut allergy, try using sunbutter or another seed-based butter in place of peanut butter.
Go vegan: Use dairy-free chocolate chips and nut butter to make a vegan-friendly version of these bars. You can also replace the butter with coconut oil.
Frequently asked questions
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute regular graham crackers with gluten-free graham crackers or even use ground oats or almond flour for a gluten-free option.How long do these bars take to set?
It typically takes about 2 hours for the bars to firm up in the fridge, but for best results, you can leave them overnight.Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Absolutely! If you like a bit of crunch in your bars, you can use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy.
In conclusion, Peanut Butter Chocolate Butterscotch Bars are not only simple to prepare but are sure to become a favorite for anyone who tries them. With their delightful combination of flavors and textures, they make for an ideal dessert at any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a sweet treat, these bars will certainly satisfy your cravings. Enjoy making them, sharing them, and of course, eating them!