Easy No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter (for topping)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Line an 8x8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, 1 cup peanut butter, powdered sugar, graham cracker crumbs, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
3. Stir everything thoroughly until you get a thick, slightly crumbly but moldable mixture.
4. Press the peanut butter mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish using the back of a spoon or your hands.
5. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and 1/4 cup peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and fully melted.
6. Pour the melted chocolate peanut butter mixture over the pressed layer in the dish. Use a spatula to smooth it out evenly.
7. Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours or until the chocolate is set and bars are firm.
8. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut into 12 squares and serve chilled.

Chef tips

• If you don't have graham cracker crumbs, substitute with digestive biscuit crumbs or finely crushed vanilla wafers.
• To make cutting easier, warm the knife blade slightly under hot water before slicing and wipe dry.
• Use natural peanut butter if you prefer less sweetness but be aware the texture might be less smooth.
• Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week to maintain freshness.