If you’re a fan of the classic chocolate and peanut butter combo, these No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars are about to become a new favorite. Made with simple pantry ingredients, they’re rich, creamy, and perfectly sweet with a smooth chocolate topping that melts in every bite. Best of all, there’s no oven required, making them the perfect easy dessert for warm summer days, holiday trays, or whenever you need a quick treat everyone will love.
If you love these, you will love my Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Protein Bites (Easy No-Bake Recipe)!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Protein-packed snack – A scoop of vanilla protein powder adds a boost of protein, making these perfect for a satisfying snack or post-workout treat.
- Easy to make – These no-bake protein bites come together with just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
- Rich peanut butter flavor – Creamy peanut butter is the star of the show, giving these bites a delicious peanut butter cup-inspired taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use creamy or crunchy peanut butter?
Yes! Both work well in this recipe. Creamy peanut butter creates a smooth, peanut butter cup-like center, while crunchy peanut butter adds extra texture and bits of peanuts throughout each bite. For best results, use a natural peanut butter made with just peanuts and salt.
What type of protein powder works best?
Vanilla protein powder adds a subtle sweetness and flavor, but unflavored protein powder can also be used.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Absolutely. Simply use dairy-free chocolate chips and your favorite plant-based protein powder if needed.
Can I use a different nut butter?
Yes. Almond butter or cashew butter can be substituted, though the flavor and texture will vary slightly. Be sure to use a natural nut butter for the best consistency.
Can I make them nut-free?
You can experiment with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option. The flavor will be a little different, but it should still work well in the recipe.
Why is my mixture too soft or too dry?
Natural peanut butters and protein powders can vary quite a bit. If the mixture feels too soft, chill it for 15–20 minutes before shaping. If it feels too dry, add a teaspoon of milk at a time until the mixture comes together.
My favorite protein powder
For the best flavor and texture, I love using FlavCity Vanilla Protein Powder in these peanut butter protein bites. It has a delicious vanilla flavor that complements the peanut butter perfectly, and it’s made with simple, high quality ingredients, including grass-fed whey protein.
If you’re looking for a clean protein powder that tastes great in both snacks and smoothies, this is one I highly recommend.
How to make no-bake chocolate peanut butter bars: step-by-step
Ingredients
- 250 grams creamy or crunchy peanut butter
- 80 grams pure maple syrup
- 5 grams vanilla extract
- 30 grams vanilla protein powder
- 70 grams superfine almond flour
- 1 gram fine sea salt
Chocolate coating
- 170 grams dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips (Lily’s brand is amazing)
- 10 grams coconut oil
- flaky sea salt for topping (optional)
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Food scale
- Whisk or spatula
- 8×8 baking pan
- Parchment paper
Instructions
- Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, stir together the peanut butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Add the protein powder, almond flour, and salt. Mix until a thick, uniform dough forms with no dry spots remaining.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and use the back of a spoon, an offset spatula, or your hands to press it into an even layer.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
- Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer and spread it evenly to the edges with an offset spatula or the back of a spoon. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt, if desired.
- Transfer the pan to the freezer for 30–60 minutes, or until the chocolate is completely set and the bars are firm.
- Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper and slice into squares or rectangles. Enjoy immediately, or store for later.
Storage
- Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months. If frozen, let the bars sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before enjoying for the best texture.
More recipes like this
- Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Protein Bites (Easy No-Bake Recipe)
- No-Bake Healthy Mini Reese’s Cups (Made with Just 5 Ingredients)
- Healthy Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bark (no bake!)
No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars (protein-packed!)
Indulge in the rich, chocolatey goodness of these no-bake chocolate peanut butter bars—made with wholesome ingredients and packed with protein for a treat you can feel good about enjoying!
Equipment
- 1 8x8 inch casserole dish
- Food scale & measuring cups and spoons
- Parchment paper
- small saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk/spatula
Ingredients
- 250 grams creamy or crunchy natural peanut butter
- 70 grams pure maple syrup
- 5 grams vanilla extract
- 30 grams vanilla protein powder
- 80 grams superfine almond flour
- 1 gram fine sea salt
Chocolate coating
- 170 grams dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips ((Lily's brand is amazing))
- 10 grams coconut oil
- flaky sea salt (optional for topping)
Instructions
-
Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal.
-
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the peanut butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
-
Add the protein powder, almond flour, and salt. Mix until a thick, uniform dough forms with no dry spots remaining.
-
Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and use the back of a spoon, an offset spatula, or your hands to press it into an even layer.
-
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
-
Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer and spread it evenly to the edges with an offset spatula or the back of a spoon. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt, if desired.
-
Transfer the pan to the freezer for 30–60 minutes, or until the chocolate is completely set and the bars are firm.
-
Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper and slice into squares or rectangles. Enjoy immediately, or store for later.
Storage
-
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months. If frozen, let the bars sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before enjoying for the best texture.
Nutrition
Nutritional information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation only.
Comments