Chocolate and Peanut Graham Bars

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a dessert that combines rich chocolate, crunchy peanuts, and the nostalgic taste of graham crackers. These Chocolate and Peanut Graham Bars are a delightful treat that brings together these flavors in a way that’s both simple and indulgent. With minimal effort and a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch that’s perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself. Let’s dive into this sweet recipe that’s sure to please everyone!

Why I Love This Recipe

This recipe is a personal favorite because it embodies everything I love about dessert: it’s easy to make, requires no baking, and is incredibly versatile. The layers of graham cracker crumbs and sweetened coconut create a delightful base, while the combination of semi-sweet chocolate chips and salted peanuts adds that perfect balance of sweetness and crunch. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving something sweet, these Chocolate and Peanut Graham Bars hit the spot every time.

Ingredients at a Glance

To create these delicious bars, you will need the following ingredients:

• 8 tablespoons salted butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 2/3 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1 1/4 cups sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 1/4 cups salted peanuts
• 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk

Recommended Tools

To make the process as smooth as possible, gather these essential tools:

• Mixing bowl: For combining the ingredients.
• Baking dish: A 9×9-inch pan works perfectly for this recipe.
• Spatula: To spread ingredients evenly in the baking dish.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accuracy in your ingredients.

Chocolate and Peanut Graham Bars, Made Easy

Let’s get to the fun part—making these delicious bars! Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars will bake evenly and get that perfect golden color.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Grease your 9×9-inch baking dish with a bit of butter or non-stick spray to prevent the bars from sticking.

Step 3: Mix the Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and vanilla extract. Stir in the graham cracker crumbs and sweetened shredded coconut until everything is well coated.

Step 4: Press the Mixture

Take the graham cracker mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This will be the sturdy base for your Chocolate and Peanut Graham Bars.

Step 5: Layer the Chocolate and Peanuts

Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the crust, followed by the salted peanuts. These layers will add rich flavor and delightful crunch to each bite.

Step 6: Pour the Sweetened Condensed Milk

Drizzle the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the chocolate and peanuts. This will bind everything together as it bakes.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.

Step 8: Cool and Cut

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cool, cut into squares and enjoy!

Smart Substitutions

This recipe is quite forgiving, and you can make a few substitutions based on your preferences or dietary needs:

• Butter: Use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute for a vegan option.
• Graham cracker crumbs: Try crushed digestive biscuits or gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free version.
• Coconut: If you’re not a fan of coconut, you can replace it with more graham cracker crumbs or oats.
• Chocolate chips: Use dark chocolate or a dairy-free chocolate alternative to suit your taste.

Pro Perspective

• For the best flavor, let the bars sit for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator before cutting. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Feel free to experiment with the toppings! Consider adding chopped dried fruits or even a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra flavor boost.
• These bars are perfect for potlucks, parties, or as a sweet treat during movie night. They’re a crowd-pleaser!

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

To keep your Chocolate and Peanut Graham Bars fresh:

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• If you want to keep them longer, freeze the bars in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying if frozen.

Common Questions

Can I use different nuts in this recipe?

Absolutely! While salted peanuts add a great crunch, you can substitute them with chopped almonds, walnuts, or even pecans based on your preference.

Do I have to bake these bars?

This specific recipe requires baking to set the ingredients together. However, if you’re looking for no-bake alternatives, you can explore recipes like Gooey Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars.

Can I add more chocolate to this recipe?

Definitely! If you’re a chocolate lover, feel free to add more chocolate chips or even drizzle melted chocolate on top once the bars have cooled.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The edges should turn golden brown, and the center should be set but still slightly soft. It will firm up as it cools.

Don’t Miss These

• Creamy Peanut Butter Pie With Chocolate Crust
• Gooey Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars

Let’s Eat

These Chocolate and Peanut Graham Bars are not just a treat; they’re an experience. Each bite is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more. They are the perfect sweet to share with friends or family, or simply to enjoy while curled up with your favorite book and a cup of tea. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to this delightful dessert. Happy baking!