Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares

Name: Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup graham cracker crumbs; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup melted butter; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1/4 cup softened butter; 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 2 tablespoons coconut oil

Highlighted under: Desserts Made Easy

I absolutely love making Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares because they are the perfect balance of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter. Every time I prepare these squares, I get excited about the delicious combination of flavors that unfold with each bite. This recipe is not only simple but also a fantastic way to satisfy my sweet tooth. Whether I'm making them for a gathering or just for myself, these squares always hit the spot and leave my friends and family asking for more!

Created by

Ella Townsend

Last updated on 2026-02-07T21:09:35.468Z

Every time I whip up a batch of these Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares, I reminisce about the first time I successfully combined these two flavors. It was a game-changer for my dessert repertoire! I found that using a quality dark chocolate not only elevates the flavor but also gives a beautiful sheen to the squares.

I love to experiment with textures by adding crushed nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt on top, providing a delightful crunch and contrast to the creamy filling. These little squares are not just treats; they are pure indulgence!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Decadent layers of chocolate and peanut butter create a heavenly treat.
No baking required, making it quick and easy to prepare.
Perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying solo with a cup of coffee.

Understanding the Layers

The success of Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares lies in the perfect balance between each layer. The graham cracker base adds a delightful crunch, while the cocoa powder enhances the chocolate flavor without overwhelming the sweetness. Make sure to pack the base tightly in the pan to avoid crumbling later, achieving a solid structure that holds the layers together. This foundational layer can be slightly adjusted by incorporating crushed nuts for added texture or vanilla extract for a touch of flavor.

The peanut butter layer plays a crucial role in providing a rich, creamy contrast to the chocolate topping. Using creamy peanut butter ensures a smooth texture, making it easier to spread over the base. If you prefer a nutty crunch, consider using crunchy peanut butter or even almond butter, which can offer a unique twist. Remember to blend the peanut butter with the powdered sugar and softened butter thoroughly until there are no lumps, creating a velvety consistency that spreads easily.

Melting Chocolate Perfectly

When melting the dark chocolate for the topping, it’s essential to do so gently to avoid burning it. I typically microwave the chocolate and coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring in between each burst until the mixture is glossy and smooth. Alternatively, you can use a double boiler for more control; simmer water in a pot and place a heatproof bowl on top, ensuring it does not touch the water. This method prevents direct heat from causing the chocolate to seize.

After the chocolate is melted, pouring it over the peanut butter layer requires a steady hand. Use a spatula to evenly spread it out, ensuring that every corner of the pan is covered. As the chocolate sets in the fridge, it will create a satisfying snap when bitten into. Be patient and allow it to chill for at least two hours—cutting too early may lead to messy squares, as the layers need time to firm up together nicely.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for a delicious treat!

For the Base:

1 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup melted butter
1/2 cup powdered sugar

For the Peanut Butter Layer:

1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup softened butter

For the Chocolate Topping:

1 cup dark chocolate chips
2 tablespoons coconut oil

Make sure to measure everything carefully for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your squares:

Prepare the Base

In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, cocoa powder, melted butter, and powdered sugar until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9x9 inch baking pan.

Make the Peanut Butter Layer

In another bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and softened butter. Mix until smooth and spread it evenly over the graham cracker base.

Create the Chocolate Topping

Melt the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil together in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring until smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer, spreading it to cover completely.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the pan for at least 2 hours until the chocolate is set. Once set, cut into squares and enjoy!

These squares are best served chilled for a refreshing treat!

Pro Tips

For a unique twist, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the chocolate before chilling for an enhanced flavor experience.

Storage Suggestions

These Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, making them a perfect make-ahead treat for gatherings or personal snacking. If you want to freeze them, I recommend cutting them into squares first, then layering parchment paper between each piece in a freezer-safe container. They can last for up to three months in the freezer, ensuring you have a sweet fix ready to go anytime.

To serve, allow the squares to thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours, or at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Avoid microwaving them directly from the freezer, as this may alter the texture of the chocolate layer. By serving them chilled, you can enjoy the contrast of the firm chocolate with the creamy peanut butter, enhancing the overall flavor experience.

Variations and Add-ins

If you want to switch things up, consider adding a layer of banana slices between the peanut butter and chocolate, bringing a delightful fruity flavor to the mix. You can also drizzle a homemade caramel sauce over the chocolate layer for an extra layer of indulgence. For a more nutritional boost, incorporating chia seeds or ground flaxseed into the peanut butter mixture can add fiber without compromising the texture.

I also love experimenting with different nut butters. If you’re allergic to peanuts, almond or cashew butter can serve as excellent substitutes, providing a unique taste while keeping the recipe intact. You can even add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before chilling for a salted caramel vibe, which harmonizes beautifully with the chocolate and peanut butter layers.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute crunchy peanut butter?

Yes, crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful texture to the squares!

→ How do I store these squares?

Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Absolutely! Milk chocolate will give the squares a sweeter taste.

→ Is there a vegan version of this recipe?

Yes! You can use vegan butter and chocolate chips to make a completely dairy-free version.