Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chocolate Peanut Butter Dream Bars are a rich, layered dessert bar that combines the best of both worlds—decadent chocolate and creamy peanut butter. With a crunchy cookie base, smooth peanut butter filling, and a luscious chocolate topping, these bars are the ultimate indulgence for any sweet tooth. They’re perfect for potlucks, holidays, or as a make-ahead treat to keep in the fridge.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

graham cracker crumbs
melted butter
powdered sugar
creamy peanut butter
cream cheese
vanilla extract
whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
semi-sweet chocolate chips
heavy cream

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until combined. Press firmly into the bottom of the baking dish to form the crust.

Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let cool completely.

In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese, peanut butter, and powdered sugar until smooth.

Fold in the whipped topping and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Spread the peanut butter mixture evenly over the cooled crust and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth and glossy.

Pour the chocolate mixture over the peanut butter layer and spread evenly.

Chill for at least 2 hours, or until fully set, before slicing into bars.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 20 bars.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 2.5 hours
Total time: 3 hours

Variations

Add chopped peanuts or pretzels on top of the chocolate layer for extra crunch.
Use an Oreo or chocolate cookie crust instead of graham crackers for a richer base.
Try dark chocolate chips for a less sweet, more intense chocolate flavor.
Swap whipped topping for freshly whipped cream for a homemade twist.

storage/reheating

Store Chocolate Peanut Butter Dream Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, freeze individual bars with parchment between layers for up to 2 months.
Thaw frozen bars in the fridge overnight before serving.
These bars are best served cold or slightly chilled.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but make sure it’s well stirred and not too oily for the best consistency.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! They are ideal for making a day in advance and storing in the fridge.

Can I use a different nut butter?
Yes, almond or cashew butter can be substituted for a different flavor.

What if I don’t have heavy cream for the chocolate layer?
You can use milk or half-and-half, but the texture may be slightly less rich.

Can I use a different crust?
Definitely—Oreo or chocolate graham crackers work great too.

Are these bars gluten-free?
Use gluten-free graham crackers and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Do I need to bake the crust?
Yes, baking helps the crust hold together better, but you can skip baking for a softer version.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger pan or two standard-size pans.

Are these kid-friendly?
Yes! Kids love the sweet peanut butter and chocolate combo.

Do I need a mixer?
A hand or stand mixer makes things easier, especially for the filling, but it’s not essential.

Conclusion

Chocolate Peanut Butter Dream Bars are the perfect combination of creamy, crunchy, and chocolatey goodness. With layers that come together effortlessly, they make a stunning and satisfying dessert for any occasion. Once you try them, they’re bound to become a go-to favorite in your dessert lineup.