Peanut Butter Seven Layer Bars
If you’re on the hunt for an easy yet decadent dessert, look no further than Peanut Butter Seven Layer Bars. These bars are an irresistible combination of rich flavors and textures, with layers of chocolate, peanut butter, and coconut that come together in perfect harmony. They’re not only a treat to the taste buds but also a visual delight that will impress friends and family alike. Whether it’s a casual gathering or a special occasion, these bars are bound to steal the show.
Why Cooks Rave About It
Peanut Butter Seven Layer Bars are a crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First, they are incredibly easy to make, requiring no advanced baking skills. Second, the combination of flavors—from creamy peanut butter to sweet chocolate—creates a deliciously addictive treat. Lastly, they are versatile; you can customize the layers to suit your preferences. Add nuts, swap chocolate for butterscotch, or even throw in some dried fruits for a twist. It’s no wonder why these bars have gained such a devoted following among home bakers!
What We’re Using
To whip up these decadent bars, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup butter, melted (I use unsalted, but salted tames some of the sweetness)
- Scant 3/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup peanut butter chips
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut flakes (measured loosely and not packed)
- 1 cup mini peanut butter cups
- Two-thirds of one 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk (eyeball it)
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
Equipment & Tools
Before you start, gather the following kitchen essentials:
- 9×13-inch baking pan – This is the perfect size for our layered bars.
- Mixing bowls – For combining the different layers.
- Spatula – To spread the layers evenly in the pan.
- Measuring cups – Accurate measurements are key to great baking.
- Oven mitts – Safety first when handling hot pans!
Mastering Peanut Butter Seven Layer Bars: How-To
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating these mouthwatering Peanut Butter Seven Layer Bars!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
Grease your 9×13-inch baking pan with some butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking. You can also line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Step 3: Make the Base Layer
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and the graham cracker crumbs. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan to form an even base.
Step 4: Add the Chocolate Layer
Spread the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the graham cracker crust. This layer adds a rich chocolatey flavor that pairs perfectly with the peanut butter.
Step 5: Add the Peanut Butter Chips
Next, sprinkle the peanut butter chips over the chocolate layer. The combination of chocolate and peanut butter is a match made in dessert heaven!
Step 6: Layer the Coconut
Evenly distribute the sweetened shredded coconut flakes on top. This adds a chewy texture that complements the other layers beautifully.
Step 7: Add the Peanut Butter Cups
Scatter the mini peanut butter cups over the coconut layer. You can chop them in half if you prefer smaller bites, but whole cups add a delightful surprise.
Step 8: Drizzle the Sweetened Condensed Milk
Eyeball two-thirds of the can of sweetened condensed milk and drizzle it generously over the entire creation. This step binds everything together and adds a creamy sweetness that’s hard to resist.
Step 9: Finish with Creamy Peanut Butter
Finally, drop spoonfuls of creamy peanut butter over the top. Use a spatula to spread it out gently. It doesn’t need to be perfect—the more rustic, the better!
Step 10: Bake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the middle is set. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-baking.
Step 11: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely. Once cooled, cut into squares or bars and serve. Enjoy the delightful layers of flavor with each bite!
Variations for Dietary Needs
If you have specific dietary preferences or restrictions, here are some variations you can try:
- Use gluten-free graham crackers or oats to make it gluten-free.
- Opt for dairy-free butter and chocolate chips to make it dairy-free.
- Substitute the sweetened condensed milk with a dairy-free alternative.
- Replace the mini peanut butter cups with dark chocolate or carob chips for a different flavor.
Pro Tips & Notes
- For a richer flavor, consider toasting the coconut flakes before adding them to the bars.
- Use high-quality chocolate and peanut butter for the best taste.
- Let the bars cool completely for cleaner cuts. If you can wait, refrigerate them for an hour before slicing!
- Feel free to mix in your favorite nuts or dried fruits for an added crunch or chewiness.
Storage Pro Tips
To keep your Peanut Butter Seven Layer Bars fresh:
- Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to two weeks.
- You can also freeze the bars. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They should last for up to three months.
Popular Questions
Can I use different types of chips?
Absolutely! You can swap out the semi-sweet chocolate and peanut butter chips for white chocolate, butterscotch, or even dark chocolate chips to suit your taste preferences.
Do I have to use sweetened condensed milk?
While sweetened condensed milk is a key ingredient for creaminess, you can substitute it with coconut cream or a homemade 1 Ingredient Caramel Sauce for a different twist.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes! Peanut Butter Seven Layer Bars can be made a day or two in advance. Just store them properly to keep them fresh.
What can I serve these with?
These bars are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. For a special treat, try them with Giant Chocolate Peanut Butter Chip Cookies!
If you’re looking for more delicious desserts to try, check out these favorites:
In Closing
Peanut Butter Seven Layer Bars are more than just a dessert; they are a delightful experience that captures the essence of indulgence. With their rich layers and incredible flavor combinations, they are perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them at a party, as an afternoon snack, or even as a late-night treat, these bars are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. So grab your ingredients, gather your loved ones, and get ready to create a dessert that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Peanut Butter Seven Layer Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease your 9x13-inch baking pan with some butter or non-stick spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and the graham cracker crumbs. Press firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan.
- Spread the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the graham cracker crust.
- Sprinkle the peanut butter chips over the chocolate layer.
- Evenly distribute the sweetened shredded coconut flakes on top.
- Scatter the mini peanut butter cups over the coconut layer.
- Drizzle two-thirds of the sweetened condensed milk over the entire creation.
- Drop spoonfuls of creamy peanut butter over the top and spread it out gently.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes.
- Once baked, let it cool completely before cutting into squares or bars.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, consider toasting the coconut flakes before adding them to the bars.
- Use high-quality chocolate and peanut butter for the best taste.
- Let the bars cool completely for cleaner cuts; refrigerate for an hour before slicing!
