These Peanut Butter Oreo Bars are an irresistible combination of creamy peanut butter, crunchy Oreos, and smooth chocolate. The perfect balance of sweet and salty, they are a quick and easy dessert that will disappear in no time.
Not only are these bars an indulgent treat, but they are also super customizable. Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a salty-sweet twist, or experiment with different types of chocolate to make it your own. Whether for a family dessert or a party treat, these bars will be the star of any table!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 pack of Oreo cookies
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1 cup peanut butter
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1/2 cup butter, melted
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1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
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1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
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1 cup chocolate chips
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1 tablespoon coconut oil
Directions:
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Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
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In a large bowl, crush the Oreo cookies into fine crumbs. You can do this by hand or using a food processor.
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In a separate bowl, mix together the peanut butter, melted butter, powdered sugar, and graham cracker crumbs until smooth.
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Press the peanut butter mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating an even layer.
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Next, melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
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Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter mixture, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
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Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours, or until fully set and firm.
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Cut into squares and serve chilled.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Kcal: 300 kcal | Servings: 16 bars
Why You’ll Love Peanut Butter Oreo Bars
Peanut Butter Oreo Bars are an easy and versatile dessert that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. They are loved by children and adults alike, making them ideal for any kind of event. The creamy peanut butter center pairs perfectly with the crunch of Oreo cookies, while the chocolate coating adds an extra layer of indulgence. It’s a texture combination that’s hard to resist!
These bars also hold their shape well, making them easy to store, serve, and transport. This makes them an excellent choice for potlucks, bake sales, or picnics. Plus, the no-bake nature of the recipe makes it quick and convenient for those busy moments when you need to whip up something delicious in a flash.
Another reason to love this dessert is its simplicity. With only a handful of ingredients, it’s easy to make even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen. No complex cooking techniques are required, just mix, layer, and chill. Even if you don’t consider yourself a baker, you can still impress your friends and family with these delightful bars.
How to Customize Peanut Butter Oreo Bars
While the classic Peanut Butter Oreo Bars recipe is already perfect on its own, there are many ways you can customize this dessert to fit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions.
One easy way to adjust this recipe is by swapping out the regular Oreos for other varieties of cookies. You can experiment with mint Oreos for a refreshing twist, or even use gluten-free Oreos for a gluten-free version of this dessert. If you’re looking to add an extra layer of flavor, consider adding some crushed pretzels for a sweet and salty combination.
If you want to make the bars even more indulgent, you can top them with additional toppings such as chopped nuts (peanuts, almonds, or walnuts), mini chocolate chips, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce. For a festive touch, sprinkle some holiday-themed sprinkles or colored sugar on top before chilling the bars.
For those with dietary restrictions, it’s easy to make these bars dairy-free by using dairy-free chocolate chips and peanut butter, or vegan by selecting vegan-friendly versions of all the ingredients. The versatility of this dessert allows you to tailor it to meet specific needs, whether it’s for vegan, gluten-free, or dairy-free diets.
The Perfect Occasion for Peanut Butter Oreo Bars
Peanut Butter Oreo Bars are the perfect dessert for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together, a family dinner, or a more formal celebration, these bars fit right in. Their no-bake nature means they’re quick to prepare, leaving you with more time to focus on other parts of your meal or event.
For birthday parties, these bars are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. You can even decorate them with colorful sprinkles or candles for an extra special touch. They also make for a fantastic dessert to bring to a potluck or picnic – they’re easy to transport, don’t require refrigeration once set, and can be served at room temperature.
These bars are also a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth without turning on the oven. Especially on hot summer days or during busy holiday seasons, when you don’t want to add extra heat to your kitchen, a no-bake dessert like Peanut Butter Oreo Bars is an ideal solution. Plus, they make a perfect snack to enjoy with a cold glass of milk or coffee.
How to Store Peanut Butter Oreo Bars
One of the best things about Peanut Butter Oreo Bars is their ability to stay fresh for an extended period. Once they’ve set and been cut into squares, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to one week, and they actually get even more delicious after chilling for a day or two. The flavors have more time to meld together, and the texture becomes even firmer and easier to cut into neat squares.
If you want to make them ahead of time for a future event or special occasion, you can freeze them! Simply store the bars in an airtight container with layers of parchment paper in between to prevent sticking, and they will stay good in the freezer for up to two months. When you’re ready to serve, simply let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes, and they’ll be just as delicious as when they were freshly made.
The Healthier Side of Peanut Butter Oreo Bars
While these bars are a rich treat that indulges your sweet tooth, they also contain some ingredients that provide a bit of nutritional value. Peanut butter, for instance, is a good source of protein and healthy fats, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied. It also contains antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, including vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium.
Oreos, on the other hand, are a delicious source of carbs, though they do come with their fair share of sugar and fat. However, by adjusting the recipe and incorporating healthier alternatives, such as whole grain crackers or using dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate, you can make the dessert a bit more wholesome.
That being said, Peanut Butter Oreo Bars are still considered a treat and should be enjoyed in moderation. They make for the perfect dessert when you’re craving something sweet but don’t want to spend a lot of time in the kitchen.
Conclusion: Why Peanut Butter Oreo Bars Are a Must-Make
Peanut Butter Oreo Bars are the perfect dessert for anyone who enjoys the classic combination of peanut butter and chocolate. They are easy to make, require few ingredients, and don’t involve any baking, making them ideal for both beginner cooks and experienced bakers alike. With their rich, indulgent flavors and the satisfying crunch of Oreos, these bars are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser at any event.
Their versatility allows you to make them your own by adding different ingredients or toppings, and they’re great for a variety of occasions, from casual dinners to special celebrations. Plus, they’re easy to store and can be made ahead of time, so you always have a delicious treat on hand.
In conclusion, Peanut Butter Oreo Bars are a delicious, simple, and versatile treat that will surely become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Whether you’re making them for yourself or sharing them with others, these bars are sure to bring smiles to everyone’s face. Try them out today, and enjoy the perfect balance of creamy peanut butter, crunchy Oreos, and smooth chocolate in every bite!