If you're a peanut butter lover, these Peanut Butter Dream Bars are about to become your new favorite treat! With layers of creamy peanut butter filling, crunchy cookie crust, and whipped topping, these bars are irresistibly rich, smooth, and easy to make.
This no-bake dessert is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or just satisfying your sweet cravings. Plus, it comes together quickly with simple ingredients!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 cups crushed vanilla wafer cookies (or graham crackers)
- ½ cup melted butter
For the Peanut Butter Filling:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
For the Chocolate Peanut Butter Layer:
- 1½ cups milk chocolate chips
- ½ cup peanut butter
For the Topping:
- 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
- ½ cup crushed peanut butter cookies or graham crackers
- ½ cup peanut butter chips
- ½ cup chocolate chips
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Crush the vanilla wafer cookies in a food processor or by placing them in a ziplock bag and crushing them with a rolling pin.
- Mix the crushed cookies with melted butter until well combined.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish and chill in the fridge while preparing the filling.
Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and peanut butter together until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy.
- Gently fold in whipped topping (Cool Whip) until fully incorporated.
- Spread the peanut butter mixture evenly over the chilled crust.
Step 3: Make the Chocolate Peanut Butter Layer
- Melt the chocolate chips and peanut butter together in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Pour and spread this rich chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the peanut butter filling.
Step 4: Add the Final Layer & Toppings
- Spread the second layer of whipped topping evenly over the chocolate layer.
- Sprinkle crushed peanut butter cookies, peanut butter chips, and chocolate chips on top for added crunch and flavor.
Step 5: Chill & Serve
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) for the best texture.
- Slice into squares and enjoy the creamy, dreamy peanut butter goodness!
Serving Suggestions
✔ Drizzle with melted peanut butter or chocolate syrup for extra indulgence.
✔ Pair with a glass of milk or coffee for the perfect sweet treat.
✔ Freeze for a firmer, ice-cream-like texture if you love a chilled dessert.
Tips for the Best Peanut Butter Dream Bars
✔ Use a springform pan if you want neat, easily removable slices.
✔ Chill the bars overnight for the best consistency.
✔ Try using crunchy peanut butter for a little extra texture.
✔ Swap out the vanilla wafer crust with an Oreo cookie crust for a chocolatey twist!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars are best when made a day in advance so they can firm up in the fridge.
2. Can I freeze Peanut Butter Dream Bars?
Yes! Wrap them tightly and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.
3. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free cookies for the crust.
4. What can I use instead of Cool Whip?
You can use homemade whipped cream (1 cup heavy cream + 2 tbsp powdered sugar, whipped to stiff peaks).
Conclusion
These Peanut Butter Dream Bars are the perfect combination of creamy, crunchy, and chocolatey goodness! Whether you’re making them for a party or just treating yourself, they are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Try them today and indulge in every rich, peanut-buttery bite! 🥜🍫😋
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