Description
These No Bake Chewy Peanut Butter Bars are a decadent treat featuring a crunchy Oreo cookie crust, a rich and gooey peanut butter caramel layer, and a smooth milk chocolate topping. Perfectly balanced with optional flaky sea salt, these bars are easy to prepare without any baking and are ideal for satisfying sweet cravings with a delightful chewy texture.
Ingredients
Base Layer
- 1/2 cup salted butter (divided)
- 28 Oreo Chocolate Sandwich Cookies (about 1/2 a 12oz package)
Peanut Butter Caramel Layer
- 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup golden syrup
- 2 tablespoons salted butter (from the 1/2 cup divided)
Chocolate Topping
- 6 ounces milk chocolate (roughly chopped)
- 1/2 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Flaky sea salt (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line a 9×9 inch baking dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil, allowing the edges to extend over the sides for easy removal later. If using foil, lightly spray with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Set the dish aside.
- Create the Cookie Crust: Melt 6 tablespoons of the salted butter. Place the Oreo cookies and melted butter into a food processor and pulse until a smooth, crumbly mixture forms, approximately 2 to 4 minutes.
- Form the Base Layer: Press the cookie mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Place the dish in the refrigerator to chill while preparing the next layer.
- Cook Peanut Butter Caramel: In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, creamy peanut butter, golden syrup, and the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir constantly and cook for about 12 minutes until the sauce thickens to a golden brown, caramel-like texture.
- Layer the Caramel: Pour the peanut butter caramel mixture over the chilled cookie crust, spreading it evenly. Return the dish to the refrigerator and chill for 15 minutes to set slightly.
- Melt the Chocolate: Place the chopped milk chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat at 50% power for 30 seconds, then stir. Continue heating in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
- Prepare Chocolate Topping: Stir the vegetable oil into the melted chocolate until fully absorbed, which will add shine and smoothness.
- Add Chocolate Layer: Pour the chocolate mixture evenly over the peanut butter caramel layer. Optionally, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top for contrast and garnish.
- Set the Bars: Refrigerate the entire dish for at least 2 hours until fully set and firm.
- Cut and Serve: When ready to serve, lift the dessert out of the dish using the edges of the parchment paper or foil. Peel back the liner, then cut into 1 to 2 inch squares. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- Using parchment paper or foil with overhanging edges makes removal easier.
- Cook the peanut butter mixture slowly and stir constantly to avoid burning and ensure a smooth caramel texture.
- Golden syrup can be substituted with light corn syrup or honey if unavailable.
- Flaky sea salt on top is optional but enhances the flavor by providing a salty contrast.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American