Lunch Lady Bars (No Bake)
These no-bake peanut butter graham cracker bars are layered with a smooth chocolate topping for a rich, nostalgic treat. Simple pantry ingredients and no oven required make them dangerously easy.
Equipment
Ingredients
For the Base
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs about 2 sleeves
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- ¾ cup butter melted
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Topping
- 1½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter or butter, for smoother spread
Instructions
- Line a 9x13 pan with parchment paper or lightly grease.
Make the Base
- In a large bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and powdered sugar.
- Add melted butter, peanut butter, and vanilla.
- Stir until fully combined—it should be thick and slightly sticky.
Press Into Pan
- Press mixture firmly and evenly into the pan.
- 👉 (Use the back of a spoon or your hands to really pack it down.)
Make the Chocolate Topping
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips with peanut butter in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
Finish
- Pour chocolate over the base and spread evenly.
- Let set at room temperature or refrigerate until firm (about 1–2 hours).
- Slice & Serve
Notes
Press the base firmly or bars may crumble
Adding peanut butter to the chocolate keeps it from cracking when sliced
Chill for cleaner cuts, especially in warm kitchens
Adding peanut butter to the chocolate keeps it from cracking when sliced
Chill for cleaner cuts, especially in warm kitchens