Peanut Butter-Ups
Peanut Butter-Ups are rich, chewy confections with a smooth peanut butter flavor and chocolate coating, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and sharing with friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix butter and peanut butter in a 2-quart bowl.
- Microwave on high (100%) for 1 1/2 to 2 minutes or until melted.
- Blend well. Mix in graham cracker crumbs and confectioners sugar until very stiff.
- Press firmly into a buttered 12 x 8-inch or 13 x 9-inch pan.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, use smooth peanut butter instead of crunchy. If you're out of graham cracker crumbs, crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers make excellent substitutes. To enhance the chocolate flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt to the chocolate chips. Ensure to mix thoroughly to avoid clumps in your dessert.
Serving Suggestions
Cut into squares and serve as a delightful dessert or snack. They pair beautifully with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee. For a special touch, drizzle melted chocolate on top or sprinkle with chopped nuts. These bars also make a great addition to a dessert platter alongside treats like Judy'S Butterscotch Cheese Cake Bars.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to two weeks. If you prefer a chilled treat, keep them in the fridge, and they can be enjoyed straight from there. Make sure to let them come to room temperature for a softer bite if refrigerated.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peanut Butter-Ups contains roughly 1790 calories, with 37g protein, 103g carbohydrates, and 147g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (75% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value), and potassium (27% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 657mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
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 natural peanut butter in this recipe?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but it may create a slightly different texture due to the lack of stabilizers. If using natural peanut butter, ensure to mix it well to combine the oil and solids before measuring, as it tends to separate.
How can I make these bars more chocolatey?
To increase the chocolate flavor, you can mix in additional chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the top before serving. Alternatively, consider adding cocoa powder to the mixture for a richer taste. Adjust sweetness accordingly if you add cocoa.
Can I freeze these peanut butter bars?
Yes, these peanut butter bars freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving for the best texture.
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).