Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge Bars

These chocolate peanut butter fudge bars are a rich, indulgent treat made with layers of chewy brownie, creamy peanut butter filling, and a glossy chocolate ganache topping. They’re perfect for dessert tables, celebrations, or satisfying a deep chocolate craving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These bars deliver an irresistible combination of textures and flavors—chewy, creamy, and velvety smooth. They’re easy to slice and serve, making them ideal for sharing. If you enjoy the classic pairing of chocolate and peanut butter, this recipe offers everything you love in one beautifully layered dessert.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
‑ Unsalted butter
‑ Granulated sugar
‑ Brown sugar
‑ Eggs
‑ Vanilla extract
‑ All-purpose flour
‑ Unsweetened cocoa powder
‑ Salt
‑ Creamy peanut butter
‑ Powdered sugar
‑ Heavy cream
‑ Semisweet or dark chocolate chips

directions

1. Make the brownie base: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Melt butter, then whisk in sugars, eggs, and vanilla. Stir in flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Spread evenly in the pan and bake for 20–25 minutes. Cool completely.
2. Prepare peanut butter layer: In a bowl, mix peanut butter and powdered sugar until smooth and thick. Spread over the cooled brownie base and refrigerate to set.
3. Make ganache topping: Heat heavy cream in a saucepan until just simmering. Pour over chocolate chips in a bowl and let sit for 1–2 minutes. Stir until smooth and glossy.
4. Pour ganache over peanut butter layer and spread evenly.
5. Chill for at least 1 hour before slicing into bars.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 16 bars, depending on how they are cut. Total time is approximately 20 minutes of preparation, 25 minutes baking, and 1–2 hours chilling.

Variations

‑ Add chopped roasted peanuts between layers for crunch.
‑ Use almond butter or cashew butter for a variation in flavor.
‑ Mix espresso powder into the brownie base for added richness.
‑ Top with sea salt flakes for a sweet-salty finish.
‑ Use white chocolate ganache for a lighter topping.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For firmer bars, serve straight from the fridge. If a softer texture is desired, let them rest at room temperature for a few minutes. These bars can also be frozen for up to 2 months and thawed in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs

Can I use boxed brownie mix for the base?

Yes, boxed mix can be used for convenience. Prepare according to package instructions.

What kind of chocolate is best for the ganache?

Use high-quality semisweet or dark chocolate for the richest flavor.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

Yes, crunchy peanut butter adds texture to the middle layer.

How do I get clean slices?

Chill the bars thoroughly and use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, they are perfect for making ahead and storing chilled until ready to serve.

Are these bars freezer-friendly?

Yes, freeze in a single layer, then store in a container separated by parchment paper.

Can I make them dairy-free?

Use dairy-free chocolate and cream alternatives, and plant-based butter substitutes.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free flour blend in the brownie layer to make it gluten-free.

How do I keep the peanut butter layer from sticking?

Chilling the layer before adding the ganache helps set it for easier handling.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan. Adjust baking time accordingly.

Conclusion

These chocolate peanut butter fudge bars are an indulgent, layered dessert that’s simple to prepare and impossible to resist. With a fudgy base, creamy peanut center, and silky ganache top, they offer the ultimate treat for chocolate and peanut butter lovers alike.

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