No Bake Peanut Butter Bars

These taste just like homemade Reese's Bars of yore, but the recipe is a little more simplified, with the addition of peanut butter added to the chocolate topping.  They're simple to make and very, very tasty.  If you can buy graham cracker crumbs and not have to make your own by crushing graham crackers, this recipe is even easier.  

No Bake Peanut Butter Bars 

adapted from The Slow Roasted Italian

1 cup (8 oz) butter
2 1/2 cups smooth or cruncy peanut butter, divided (smooth makes the topping look better)
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
2 cups powdered sugar
2 cups milk chocolate chips

1.  In a heavy-bottomed saucepan (or the microwave), add the butter until melted.  Stir in 2 cups of  the peanut butter. Once combined, add the graham cracker crumbs and powdered sugar. Stir until everything is completely incorporated. (I just stirred everything together in the same saucepan.) 

2.  Pour mixture into a 9x13 baking pan and spread evenly. Place in the refrigerator while you prepare the topping.

3.  Heat the chocolate chips and remaining 1/2 cup peanut butter in a double boiler on the stove OR in microwave safe bowl. Stir frequently.  If using the microwave, heat 30 seconds at a time and stir between intervals.

4.  Pour the ganache over the peanut butter layer. Smooth into an even layer.  Refrigerate 1-2 hours. Cut and serve. Store bars in the refrigerator.

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