Introduction

Peanut Butter Oreo Bars combine the irresistible crunch of Oreo cookies with a creamy peanut butter layer, all topped with silky melted chocolate. These no-bake treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

The image shows a stack of three dessert squares, each with three clear layers: the bottom layer is dark, crumbly chocolate cookie crust, the middle layer is thick and creamy light brown peanut butter filling with a smooth texture, and the top layer is a thin, shiny dark chocolate ganache. The squares are neatly stacked on top of each other on a white marbled surface. To the left, there is one chocolate sandwich cookie and a blurred glass of milk in the background, giving a cozy, inviting feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

15 Oreo cookies (not double stuffed)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter (42 grams), melted
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
6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate (170 grams) or your favorite variety
2 teaspoons shortening or 1/2 teaspoon vegetable oil

Instructions

Step 1: Line an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving an overhang around the sides for easy removal.
Step 2: 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.
Step 3: Mix the crushed cookies with the melted butter until well combined, then press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
Step 4: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Add the peanut butter and salt to the butter mixture, beating until no lumps remain.
Step 6: Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, about half a cup at a time, until the mixture is firm and doesn’t stick when squeezed between your fingers.
Step 7: Spread the peanut butter mixture evenly over the Oreo crust, pressing gently to create a smooth layer. You can use wax paper to help smooth it out.
Step 8: Chop the chocolate finely and place it in a heatproof bowl. Melt it by microwaving on medium power in 45-second intervals, stirring between each, or melt over a double boiler on low heat.
Step 9: Stir the shortening into the melted chocolate to keep it smooth and glossy.
Step 10: Pour the warm chocolate over the peanut butter layer and smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 11: Allow the bars to set until the chocolate hardens. You can leave them at room temperature or chill in the fridge, noting that refrigeration may cause slight discoloration of the chocolate.
Step 12: When the chocolate is about 90% set, score the top lightly with a thin sharp knife to mark where you will cut the bars.
Step 13: Once fully hardened, lift the bars from the pan using the parchment or foil overhang. Transfer to a cutting board and slice into pieces using a sharp knife.

Tips & Variations

Use natural peanut butter for a less sweet, more nutty flavor, adjusting sugar to taste.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of vanilla extract to the peanut butter layer for extra depth.
Swap semi-sweet chocolate for dark or milk chocolate depending on your preference.
If you don’t have shortening, a small amount of vegetable oil or coconut oil works well to keep the chocolate smooth.

Storage

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. If refrigerated, let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. These bars also freeze well for up to 2 months—thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.

How to Serve

The image shows a stack of three square dessert bars on a white marbled surface. Each bar has three layers: the bottom layer is dark brown, crumbly and dense like an Oreo crust; the middle layer is thick, smooth, and creamy with a light peanut butter color; the top layer is a thin, glossy dark chocolate coating that covers the peanut butter layer completely. The bars are neatly stacked with even edges, and the background is a soft, clean white that highlights the colors and textures of the bars. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other cookies instead of Oreos?

Yes, you can substitute Oreos with similar sandwich cookies or even crushed chocolate chip cookies for a different flavor and texture.

Do I have to use shortening in the chocolate layer?

Shortening helps keep the melted chocolate smooth and shiny. If you don’t have it, a small amount of vegetable oil or coconut oil works as a good alternative.