These Butterfinger Reese’s Peanut Butter Bars are the ultimate treat for candy bar lovers! Packed with the rich, creamy taste of Reese’s peanut butter and the crunchy sweetness of Butterfinger pieces, this dessert bar is sure to satisfy your cravings. It’s a no-bake recipe that combines graham crackers, chocolate, and peanut butter for a rich and indulgent treat. Perfect for gatherings, parties, or as a personal indulgence, these bars are easy to make and guaranteed to disappear quickly.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (smooth for a consistent texture)
- 1/2 cup butter, melted (unsalted is best to control saltiness)
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12-15 crackers, finely crushed)
- 2 cups powdered sugar (for a sweet and smooth texture)
- 1 cup Butterfinger candy bars, crushed (about 3 standard-sized bars)
- 1 cup mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, halved
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate, to preference)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (optional, for smoother melting)
Preparation:
Step 1:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and creamy peanut butter. Stir until smooth and fully combined. The melted butter helps bind the ingredients together and creates a rich, creamy base.
Step 2:
Add the graham cracker crumbs and powdered sugar to the bowl with the peanut butter mixture. Stir until well combined. The mixture should have a thick, dough-like consistency that holds together well when pressed.
Step 3:
Fold in the crushed Butterfinger candy bars and halved Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. Mix gently but thoroughly so that the candies are evenly distributed throughout the peanut butter mixture. This adds a delightful crunch and texture to the bars.
Step 4:
Press the peanut butter mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper. Use the back of a spoon or a spatula to spread it evenly across the dish, making sure to press it firmly to form a solid base.
Step 5:
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until smooth. If needed, add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil to make the chocolate easier to pour and spread. Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter base in the baking dish and spread it evenly.
Step 6:
Sprinkle additional crushed Butterfinger pieces or Reese’s on top of the melted chocolate, pressing them lightly into the chocolate layer so they set as it cools.
Step 7:
Refrigerate the bars for at least 1 hour, or until the chocolate is firm and set. Once chilled, use the parchment paper to lift the bars from the dish and cut them into squares or bars.
Variation:
For a twist on this recipe, try swapping the graham cracker crumbs for crushed pretzels for a salty-sweet combination. You could also add mini marshmallows to the peanut butter mixture for a chewy texture. Alternatively, experiment with different candy bar combinations, such as adding Snickers pieces or M&M’s for extra color and crunch.
Cooking Note:
- For an extra creamy texture, you can add an additional tablespoon of melted butter to the peanut butter mixture.
- If you want an extra-thick chocolate layer, double the amount of chocolate chips for a richer topping.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these bars chilled as a quick, easy dessert or snack. They pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk, a hot cup of coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an indulgent dessert.
Tips:
- Crush the Butterfinger bars in a sealed plastic bag with a rolling pin to control the size of the pieces.
- For clean, even cuts, use a sharp knife warmed in hot water (then dried) to slice the bars.
- Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cooking Time:
0 minutes (no bake)
Total Time:
1 hour (including chill time)
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 150mg
- (Values may vary slightly based on exact ingredient measurements and serving sizes)
FAQs:
Q: Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?
A: Yes, chunky peanut butter will add a bit more texture to the bars, which some may prefer. However, it may make the base a little more difficult to spread evenly.
Q: Can these bars be made without graham cracker crumbs?
A: Yes, if you want to avoid graham crackers, you can substitute with crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even crushed pretzels for a salty twist.
Q: How long do the bars need to chill?
A: It’s best to chill them for at least an hour to ensure the chocolate sets firmly. You can chill them longer or overnight if needed.
Q: Can I make these bars vegan?
A: Substitute the butter with a vegan-friendly margarine and use dairy-free chocolate chips. Ensure the peanut butter and candy bars are also vegan, or opt for vegan-friendly peanut butter cups and candy pieces.
Conclusion
Butterfinger Reese’s Peanut Butter Bars are a fun and delicious way to enjoy your favorite candy bars in a homemade treat. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they’re perfect for any occasion, from a casual family night to a festive gathering. With their rich, layered flavors and satisfying texture, these bars are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Try this recipe today, and enjoy the delightful blend of peanut butter and chocolate goodness!