Chocolate Peanut Butter Stacks are the perfect sweet treat that combines two of the most beloved flavors: rich, creamy peanut butter and smooth, decadent chocolate. These no-bake, bite-sized treats are easy to make and ideal for satisfying your sweet tooth without much effort.
Why Youโll Love This Recipe
If you’re a fan of chocolate and peanut butter, this recipe will be your new go-to! The combination of salty and sweet flavors, plus the smooth texture of the peanut butter with the richness of the chocolate, creates an irresistible snack. Not only is this recipe quick and simple, but it’s also a great option for meal prep or to make ahead for a party. The best part? You donโt need an oven, so you can whip them up in no time.
Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy, depending on preference)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- In a medium bowl, mix together the peanut butter, powdered sugar, graham cracker crumbs, and melted butter until well combined.
- Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Once all the peanut butter balls are formed, melt the chocolate chips in the microwave or over a double boiler until smooth and creamy.
- Dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, making sure it is fully coated. Place it back on the parchment paper to set.
- Allow the chocolate to harden at room temperature for about 1 hour or refrigerate for 30 minutes for quicker results.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes about 20-25 chocolate peanut butter stacks, depending on the size of the balls. The preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and chilling time is about 30 minutes to 1 hour. Total time will vary depending on whether you refrigerate or let them set at room temperature.
Variations
- Dark Chocolate Version: Swap out semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips for a more intense chocolate flavor.
- Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped peanuts into the peanut butter mixture for a crunchy texture.
- Vegan Option: Use a dairy-free chocolate and substitute the butter with coconut oil for a vegan-friendly treat.
- Drizzle: For extra flair, drizzle additional melted chocolate over the top of each stack for a decorative touch.
- Sea Salt: Sprinkle a bit of sea salt on top of the stacks before the chocolate hardens for a salty-sweet combo.
Storage/Reheating
Store your chocolate peanut butter stacks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want to extend the shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. If frozen, allow them to thaw at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before enjoying.
FAQs
1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, using crunchy peanut butter will give your stacks a bit of texture and crunch, but creamy peanut butter will give them a smoother consistency.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chocolate peanut butter stacks in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer. Theyโll last for up to two weeks in the fridge and up to three months in the freezer.
3. Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
Yes, almond butter can be substituted for peanut butter in this recipe. It will give a slightly different flavor but still delicious.
4. How do I know when the chocolate is properly melted?
When melting chocolate, stir it every 20-30 seconds. The chocolate should be smooth and free of lumps. If using a microwave, heat in 20-second intervals to prevent burning.
5. Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Yes, milk chocolate will give the stacks a sweeter taste, while semi-sweet chocolate adds a bit of bitterness to balance the sweetness of the peanut butter.
6. Do I have to chill the stacks?
Chilling the stacks helps the chocolate harden faster, but if you’re not in a hurry, you can leave them at room temperature to set.
7. Can I use honey instead of powdered sugar?
You could try using honey, but keep in mind that it will change the texture slightly, making the mixture more sticky. If using honey, reduce the amount of butter.
8. How can I make these more festive for holidays?
For a festive touch, add colored sprinkles on top of the chocolate or drizzle white chocolate for contrast. You can also shape them into fun shapes, like hearts or stars, using a cookie cutter.
9. Can I use a different type of graham cracker for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different graham cracker flavors like cinnamon graham crackers for a spiced twist.
10. Can I use a different type of chocolate for the coating?
Absolutely! White chocolate, dark chocolate, or even a chocolate-flavored coating can be used instead of semi-sweet chocolate.
Conclusion
Chocolate Peanut Butter Stacks are the ultimate combination of creamy, salty, and sweet. Theyโre easy to make, customizable, and sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re preparing them for a party or just need a quick treat, these bite-sized stacks are always a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the rich, indulgent flavors and the fun of no-bake simplicity with this easy recipe!
PrintChocolate Peanut Butter Stacks
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 stacks 1x
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Chocolate Peanut Butter Stacks are a delicious no-bake dessert made with creamy peanut butter, rich chocolate, and crispy crackers for the perfect balance of sweet and salty. They come together in minutes and are great for snacking, gifting, or a quick dessert fix!
Ingredients
- 24 Ritz crackers (or similar buttery round crackers)
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (or vegetable shortening)
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (optional, for garnish)
- 1/4 cup crushed peanuts (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crackers: Lay out 12 crackers on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread about 1 teaspoon of peanut butter onto each cracker. Top with another cracker to make a sandwich.
- Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted.
- Dip the Stacks: Using a fork, dip each peanut butter cracker sandwich into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let any excess chocolate drip off before placing it back on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle with sea salt or crushed peanuts for extra texture and flavor.
- Set the Chocolate: Refrigerate for 20โ30 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm.
- Enjoy! Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
- For a crunchier texture, use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy.
- Try using white chocolate or dark chocolate for a different flavor twist.
- Add a drizzle of melted caramel for an extra indulgent treat.
- These can be frozen for up to 3 monthsโjust thaw for a few minutes before eating.
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