Peanut Butter Oreo Bars

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter and Oreo cookies, look no further! These Peanut Butter Oreo Bars are not only delicious but also super easy to whip up. They have a thick Oreo crust, a creamy peanut butter filling, and a smooth layer of chocolate on top – what’s not to love? Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or bringing a dessert to a family gathering, these bars are sure to please everyone.

What I adore about this recipe is its no-bake nature. You can make it in just 20 minutes, then let it chill while you attend to other things. Perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No baking required: Enjoy the ease of making these bars without turning on the oven.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the combination of flavors in these bars.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare them ahead of time to save stress on special occasions.
• Decadent flavors: The rich peanut butter and chocolate layers create a heavenly taste experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create your Peanut Butter Oreo Bars. You might already have many of them in your pantry!

For the Base

• 15 Oreo cookies (not double stuffed)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (42 grams) (melted)

For the Filling

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (56 grams) (softened)
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar (light or dark)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (omit if using salted butter)
• 1 cup smooth peanut butter
• 1 2/3 cup powdered sugar (183 grams) (sifted)

For the Topping

• 6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate (170 grams) (or your favorite variety)
• 2 teaspoons shortening (or 1/2 teaspoon vegetable oil)

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to customize it based on what you have or what you enjoy.

• Add some crunch: Mix in chopped nuts like peanuts or almonds for an extra textural element.
• Change up the chocolate: Swap semi-sweet chocolate for milk chocolate or dark chocolate for different flavor profiles.
• Make it festive: Add sprinkles or colored candies on top for holidays or special occasions.
• Go for different cookies: Try using other cookie brands instead of Oreos for unique flavors.

How to Make Peanut Butter Oreo Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Line an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving an overhang around the sides. This will make it super easy to lift out your bars once they’re set!

Step 2: Make the Base

In a medium bowl, crush the Oreo cookies until fine crumbs form. Combine them with melted butter and mix until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan. This crust is essential as it provides that delightful base and texture for your bars.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In another bowl, beat together softened butter, brown sugar, salt, and smooth peanut butter until creamy. Gradually add in sifted powdered sugar until everything is combined into a thick filling. Spread this luscious mixture evenly over your crust. This filling is what gives the bars their rich flavor and creaminess!

Step 4: Melt the Chocolate Topping

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine semi-sweet chocolate and shortening. Microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently until melted and smooth. Pour this over your peanut butter layer and spread evenly. The chocolate topping adds that perfect finishing touch!

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the bars for at least one hour or until set. Once chilled, use the parchment overhang to lift them out before cutting into squares. These Peanut Butter Oreo Bars are best enjoyed chilled – just wait until you take that first bite; it’s pure bliss!

Pro Tips for Making Peanut Butter Oreo Bars

Creating the perfect Peanut Butter Oreo Bars is incredibly satisfying, and a few handy tips can make your experience even smoother!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh peanut butter and new Oreo cookies will enhance the flavor and texture of your bars, ensuring they taste amazing.

• Melt chocolate carefully: When melting your chocolate, do it slowly in short intervals to prevent it from burning. This step ensures a silky-smooth topping that adheres perfectly to your bars.

• Chill thoroughly: Allowing the bars to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour after assembly helps them set properly and makes cutting into squares easier.

• Customize sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet treat, reduce the powdered sugar slightly. This adjustment can create a more balanced flavor profile that suits your palate.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Oreo Bars

These delightful Peanut Butter Oreo Bars are not only delicious but also visually appealing! Here are some fun ways to present and enjoy them.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle chopped peanuts or almonds on top of the chocolate layer for added crunch and flavor.
• Drizzle of chocolate: A light drizzle of melted chocolate over the top adds an elegant touch and enhances visual appeal.
• Sea salt flakes: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt can balance out the sweetness perfectly, bringing all the flavors together.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream complements the rich flavors of the bars beautifully, creating a classic dessert pairing.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides a light contrast to the richness of the bars, making for a well-rounded dessert experience.
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea serves as an excellent beverage choice, enhancing the overall indulgence while balancing sweetness.
• Milk: A glass of cold milk is always a classic accompaniment that brings nostalgia and enhances the flavors of these decadent treats.

Enjoy your Peanut Butter Oreo Bars with these serving suggestions for an unforgettable dessert experience!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Peanut Butter Oreo Bars are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time and store them, allowing you to enjoy this delightful treat whenever you crave something sweet.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer shelf life, refrigerate them, where they will stay fresh for up to a week.

Freezing

• Cut the bars into squares before freezing for easy serving.
• Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• If you prefer your bars slightly warm, remove them from the fridge or freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before enjoying.
• You can also microwave individual squares on low power for about 10-15 seconds, but be careful not to melt the chocolate topping!

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions that might help you with your Peanut Butter Oreo Bars.

Can I use other types of cookies instead of Oreos for Peanut Butter Oreo Bars?

Absolutely! You can substitute Oreos with any chocolate wafer cookies if you’re looking for a different flavor profile. Just ensure they’re similar in texture to maintain the crust consistency.

How long do Peanut Butter Oreo Bars last?

When stored properly, these Peanut Butter Oreo Bars can last up to a week in the refrigerator or even longer when frozen. Enjoy them fresh or save some for later!

What can I use instead of semi-sweet chocolate?

If you’re looking for alternatives, dark chocolate or dairy-free chocolate chips are great substitutes. They will still give you that rich chocolate flavor without compromising on taste.

Are Peanut Butter Oreo Bars gluten-free?

Yes, if you choose gluten-free Oreo cookies, this recipe can easily be made gluten-free while maintaining all that delicious flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Peanut Butter Oreo Bars! They’re not only easy to whip up but also bring a smile with every bite. Perfect for sharing or indulging solo, these treats are bound to become a favorite. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe, and remember—there’s nothing quite like homemade sweetness!