The recipe you’re interested in, often known as “Reese’s Squares” or “No Bake Peanut Butter Bars,” is a delightful treat for those who love the decadent combination of chocolate and peanut butter. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the recipe along with additional insights:
Reese’s Squares Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, melted
- 1 (12 oz) package semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
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Prepare the Base:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, confectioners’ sugar, and creamy peanut butter. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Gradually pour in the melted butter, stirring continuously, until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended.
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Assemble the Bars:
- Press the peanut butter mixture evenly into a 9×13 inch pan using a spatula or your hands. Ensure the layer is compact and level.
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Chocolate Topping:
- Melt the semisweet chocolate chips either in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, or using a double boiler on the stovetop until smooth and completely melted.
- Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer, spreading it out evenly with a spatula to cover the entire surface.
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Chilling and Serving:
- Place the pan in the refrigerator to chill until the chocolate layer is just set. This typically takes about 1-2 hours.
- Once chilled, remove from the refrigerator and cut into squares or bars. It’s recommended to use a sharp knife and cut carefully to prevent the chocolate from cracking.
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Storage:
- Store the Reese’s Squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They can also be frozen for longer storage, but allow them to thaw slightly before serving.
Nutritional Information (per bar):
- Calories: 222.8
- Total Fat: 13.7g
- Saturated Fat: 6.2g
- Cholesterol: 15.7mg
- Sodium: 118.8mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 1.1g
- Sugar: 19.3g
- Protein: 3.7g
Recipe Notes:
- Richness: These bars are exceptionally rich due to the combination of peanut butter and chocolate. They’re ideal for those who enjoy intense flavors and textures in their desserts.
- Handling Tips: To ease cutting, ensure the chocolate layer is just firm but not too hard. Cutting them when the chocolate is too cold can lead to cracking.
- Variations: For a twist, consider using different types of chocolate chips (milk chocolate or dark chocolate) or adding chopped nuts like almonds or pecans on top of the chocolate layer for added crunch and flavor contrast.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these Reese’s Squares as a decadent dessert at parties, potlucks, or simply as a delightful treat for family gatherings. They pair perfectly with a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of coffee for a satisfying indulgence.
This recipe’s simplicity, combined with its rich and satisfying taste, makes it a favorite among those who crave the classic combination of chocolate and peanut butter. Enjoy making and sharing these irresistible bars with friends and family!
