If you have a sweet tooth and a love for anything peanut butter and chocolate, then these Peanut Butter Oreo Bars are going to become your new go-to dessert. Imagine a crunchy, chocolatey Oreo crust layered with a rich, creamy peanut butter filling, all topped off with a silky melted chocolate glaze that snaps perfectly with each bite. These bars are the perfect combination of textures and flavors—decadent yet approachable, and absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re making them for a party or just because you deserve a treat, Peanut Butter Oreo Bars are guaranteed to brighten your day and satisfy your cravings.

Peanut Butter Oreo Bars Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started with these bars is a breeze because each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect combination of texture and flavor. From the Oreo crust to the luscious peanut butter layer and the smooth chocolate topping, every component is essential to this harmony of sweet and salty.

Oreo cookies (15, not double stuffed): These bring the iconic crunch and chocolate flavor to the base of your bars.
Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons melted + 1/4 cup softened): Key for binding the crust and smoothing out the peanut butter filling.
Brown sugar (3 tablespoons): Adds a subtle molasses sweetness and moisture that balances out the peanut butter.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavors, especially important if you’re using unsalted butter.
Smooth peanut butter (1 cup): The star of the show that makes these bars creamy, rich, and utterly comforting.
Powdered sugar (1 2/3 cups, sifted): Provides sweetness and helps stiffen the peanut butter layer for slicing.
Semi-sweet chocolate (6 ounces): Melted on top for a glossy, indulgent finish—feel free to use your favorite chocolate variety.
Shortening (2 teaspoons): Keeps the chocolate glossy and smooth when it sets perfectly on top.

How to Make Peanut Butter Oreo Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Crust

Start by lining an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil, making sure there’s some overhang on the sides to easily lift the bars out later. Next, crush the Oreo cookies finely either in a food processor or by smashing them in a freezer bag with a rolling pin. Mix the crumbs with the melted butter until well combined, then press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan to create that iconic crunchy crust.

Step 2: Whip Up the Peanut Butter Layer

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until they’re smooth and creamy. Add in the peanut butter and salt, mixing well until no butter lumps remain. Then, sift in the powdered sugar a half cup at a time, blending until the mixture is stiff enough that it doesn’t stick when you press it with your fingers. Spread or press this luscious peanut butter concoction evenly over the Oreo crust. A piece of wax paper can help smooth it down evenly without sticking to your fingers.

Step 3: Melt the Chocolate and Top

Finely chop your semi-sweet chocolate and place it in a heatproof bowl. Melt the chocolate gently in the microwave on medium power in 45-second intervals, stirring thoroughly between each until smooth, or use a double boiler on low heat to avoid burning. Once melted, stir in the shortening to keep the chocolate glossy and pour it over the peanut butter layer. Use a spatula to smooth out the chocolate for a perfect finish.

Step 4: Chill and Slice

Let the chocolate layer harden at room temperature or in the fridge (just be mindful the fridge can cause some discoloring). When the chocolate is about 90% set, use a sharp knife to lightly score where you plan to slice—this helps keep your bars neat. Once fully firm, lift the entire block out of the pan using the parchment overhang, place it on a cutting board, and slice into bars with a clean, sharp knife.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Oreo Bars

Garnishes

While these bars are delicious as they are, a sprinkle of crushed Oreos, a drizzle of melted peanut butter or chocolate, or even a few chopped peanuts on top will add an eye-catching and flavor-packed touch. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream can also lend a refreshing contrast to the richness.

Side Dishes

When serving Peanut Butter Oreo Bars, pairing them with a cold glass of milk is a classic choice that never fails. You could also offer coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside for a more indulgent dessert experience. Their rich texture makes them an excellent companion to lighter, refreshing sides like fresh fruit.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress guests, try stacking small squares on a decorative plate layered with edible flowers or serving them individually in mini cupcake liners. Another fun idea is to skewer smaller squares alternately with marshmallows or fresh fruit for a playful dessert kabob that’s as fun to look at as it is to eat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Peanut Butter Oreo Bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerated for about a week. If you keep them in the fridge, allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Freezing

These bars freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When properly stored, they can last up to three months in the freezer. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before slicing and serving.

Reheating

While these bars are usually enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, if you prefer a softer texture, allow them to sit at room temperature for a bit before eating. Avoid microwaving as it can alter the texture of the layers, especially the chocolate topping.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?

Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add an extra layer of texture to your Peanut Butter Oreo Bars, making them even more interesting to bite into.

What if I don’t have shortening for the chocolate layer?

If you don’t have shortening, vegetable oil works as a great substitute to keep the chocolate shiny and easier to spread.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

For gluten-free bars, use gluten-free Oreo cookies or a similar gluten-free chocolate cookie. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Is it necessary to sift the powdered sugar?

Sifting the powdered sugar prevents lumps in the peanut butter mixture, helping achieve a smoother texture and making the layer easier to spread and slice.

How do I avoid the chocolate topping discoloring in the fridge?

Chocolate can sometimes bloom or discolor in the fridge due to condensation. To minimize this, let the bars come to room temperature before placing them in the fridge, or set them at room temperature to harden instead.

Final Thoughts

These Peanut Butter Oreo Bars have quickly become one of my favorite treats to make and share. Their unbeatable combination of crunchy, creamy, sweet, and salty flavors will have you reaching for seconds (and thirds). Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, trust me—you’ll want to keep this recipe close at hand for all your future cravings!

Peanut Butter Oreo Bars Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 18 reviews

Author: Aiden
Total Time: 2 hours (including chilling and setting time)
Yield: 16 bars 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These Peanut Butter Oreo Bars combine a crunchy Oreo cookie crust with a creamy peanut butter layer and a smooth chocolate topping, creating an irresistible no-bake treat perfect for dessert or snack time.

Ingredients

Scale

Oreo Crust

15 Oreo cookies (not double stuffed)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter (42 grams), melted

Peanut Butter Layer

1/4 cup unsalted butter (56 grams), softened
3 tablespoons brown sugar (light or dark)
1/4 teaspoon salt (omit if using salted butter)
1 cup smooth peanut butter
1 2/3 cup powdered sugar (183 grams), sifted

Chocolate Layer

6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate (170 grams), chopped
2 teaspoons shortening (or 1/2 teaspoon vegetable oil)

Instructions

Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving an overhang around the sides for easy removal of the bars later.
Make the Oreo Crust: Crush the Oreo cookies including the filling into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a freezer bag and crushing with a rolling pin. Mix the crushed cookies with the melted butter until evenly combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust layer.
Create the Peanut Butter Layer: In a bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the peanut butter and salt, beating until no lumps of butter remain. Gradually mix in the sifted powdered sugar about half a cup at a time, ensuring the mixture is thick and no longer sticky to the touch. Spread and press this peanut butter mixture evenly over the Oreo crust, using a spatula or a piece of wax paper for smoothness.
Prepare the Chocolate Layer: Place the chopped semi-sweet chocolate in a heat-proof bowl. Melt the chocolate by microwaving at medium power for 45-second intervals, stirring thoroughly between each until fully melted. Alternatively, melt the chocolate in a double boiler over low heat. Stir in the shortening to achieve a glossy finish. Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer, smoothing the surface with a spatula.
Set and Slice: Allow the chocolate to harden either at room temperature or in the refrigerator (note that refrigeration may cause slight discoloration). When the chocolate is about 90% set, gently score the top with a thin, sharp knife where you intend to slice. Once completely hardened, use the overhanging parchment or foil to lift the bars from the pan and place on a cutting board. Slice using a sharp, thin knife for clean edges.

Notes

Use regular Oreo cookies, not double stuffed, for best texture.
Softened butter in the peanut butter layer helps everything combine smoothly.
Gradually adding powdered sugar prevents clumping and ensures a smooth consistency.
Melt chocolate at medium power in microwave to avoid burning.
Shortening in the chocolate layer gives a glossy finish and sets it nicely.
Scoring chocolate before fully hardening makes slicing easier and neater.
Bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerated for up to one week.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes (no baking required)
Category: Dessert, Snack
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American