Georgia'S Gorgeous Peanut Butter Gems
Georgia's Gorgeous Peanut Butter Gems are rich, sweet treats combining crunchy peanut butter and chocolate, perfect for parties or as a decadent homemade gift.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the semi-sweet chocolate pieces in the top of a double boiler.
- Mix together peanut butter, graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and vanilla until well combined.
- Pat this mixture into a 9 x 13-inch pan, pressing it evenly into the bottom.
- Spread the melted chocolate on top of the peanut butter layer.
- Chill the pan until set, then cut into small squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother chocolate layer, ensure the chocolate is melted gently to avoid burning. You can substitute crunchy peanut butter with creamy if preferred, though it will change the texture slightly. To enhance flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate layer. For a different twist, try incorporating chopped nuts or mini marshmallows into the peanut butter mixture, similar to variations seen in Chocolate Chip Reese'S Cups.
Serving Suggestions
These Peanut Butter Gems are perfect for parties or as a sweet treat after dinner. Serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast in temperature and texture. They also pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk. For an impressive dessert platter, you can include other sweets like Cherry Jubilee Pie or Diabetic Pumpkin Delight.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Peanut Butter Gems in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight or let sit at room temperature for about an hour before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Georgia'S Gorgeous Peanut Butter Gems contains roughly 826 calories, with 3g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 60g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of chocolate for this recipe?
Absolutely! While semi-sweet chocolate is traditional, you can experiment with dark chocolate for a richer flavor or milk chocolate for a sweeter profile. Just keep in mind that the melting process may vary slightly depending on the chocolate type.
How can I make these gems healthier?
To make a healthier version, consider using natural peanut butter with no added sugars and swapping graham cracker crumbs for ground oats or whole wheat crumbs. You could also reduce the sugar slightly or use a sugar substitute to lower the calorie count.
Can I make these gems ahead of time?
Yes, these Peanut Butter Gems can be made a day or two in advance. Just ensure they are stored properly in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. They taste even better after chilling overnight, as the flavors meld beautifully.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).