Oreo Peanut Butter Bars Recipe
Delicious and easy-to-make Oreo Peanut Butter Bars featuring a crunchy Oreo crust, a rich and creamy peanut butter layer, and a smooth chocolate topping. Perfect for a sweet treat or dessert that combines classic flavors loved by all ages.
- Author: Nora
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes plus chilling time
- Yield: 16 bars (assuming 4x4 slicing of an 8x8 pan) 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Oreo Crust
- 15 Oreo cookies (not double stuffed)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (42 grams), melted
Peanut Butter Layer
- 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
Chocolate Layer
- 6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate (170 grams), chopped
- 2 teaspoons shortening (or 1/2 teaspoon vegetable oil)
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving an overhang around the sides for easy removal.
- Oreo Crust Preparation: Crush the Oreo cookies including filling until fine crumbs using a food processor, or by placing them in a freezer bag and crushing with a rolling pin. Mix the crushed Oreos with the melted butter thoroughly.
- Form the Crust: Press the Oreo and butter mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust layer.
- Prepare Peanut Butter Layer: In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add in the peanut butter and salt, beating until no lumps of butter remain.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually mix in the sifted powdered sugar, about half a cup at a time, until the mixture becomes stiff and is no longer sticky to the touch.
- Assemble Peanut Butter Layer: Spoon the peanut butter mixture over the Oreo crust and use a spatula or wax paper to spread and press it into an even, smooth layer.
- Melt Chocolate: Chop the semi-sweet chocolate finely and place in a heat-proof bowl. Melt the chocolate by microwaving on medium power for 45 seconds intervals, stirring between each until smooth. Alternatively, melt over a double boiler on low heat. Stir in shortening to keep the chocolate smooth and glossy.
- Pour Chocolate Layer: Evenly pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer and smooth the surface with a spatula.
- Set and Harden: Let the bars sit at room temperature or refrigerate until the chocolate layer hardens completely. Be aware that refrigeration may cause slight discoloration of the chocolate.
- Score the Bars: When the chocolate is about 90% hardened, gently score the top with a sharp thin knife where the bars will be sliced to help with clean cuts later.
- Slice and Serve: Once fully hardened, lift the bars from the pan using the parchment or foil overhang. Place on a cutting board and slice into bars using a sharp, thin knife. Enjoy!
Notes
- For best results, use unsalted butter to better control the salt content.
- If you wish the chocolate layer to be shinier, shortening or vegetable oil is added while melting.
- You can store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Not recommended to freeze as the texture may change upon thawing.
Keywords: Oreo, Peanut Butter Bars, No-Bake Dessert, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Easy Dessert, Oreo Crust