Chocolate Peanut Butter Dream Bars (Print Format)
Creamy peanut butter, chocolate, and cookie crust create layers of sweet and salty bliss with every bite.
# Ingredients:
01 -
16 oz chocolate sandwich cookies, crushed
02 -
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
03 -
1 cup creamy peanut butter
04 -
8 oz cream cheese, softened
05 -
1 cup powdered sugar
06 -
8 oz whipped topping, thawed
07 -
1 package (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
08 -
1 1/2 cups milk
09 -
Additional whipped topping and chocolate curls (optional, for garnish)
# Steps:
01 -
In a medium bowl, combine the crushed chocolate sandwich cookies with the melted butter. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly coated with butter.
02 -
Press the cookie mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, creating an even layer. Use the back of a spoon to press it down firmly. Place the crust in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.
03 -
In a separate bowl, beat together the creamy peanut butter, softened cream cheese, and powdered sugar until smooth and well-combined.
04 -
Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping to the peanut butter mixture. Spread this creamy mixture evenly over the prepared cookie crust in the baking dish.
05 -
In a bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and milk until it thickens, about 2 minutes.
06 -
Pour the chocolate pudding mixture over the peanut butter layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
07 -
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours, or until set. This step is crucial for the layers to firm up and make cutting easier.
08 -
Before serving, top the bars with additional whipped topping and chocolate curls for garnish.
# Tips:
01 -
Make sure the cookie crust is packed down tightly so it holds together well when sliced.
02 -
For the best texture, ensure the whipped topping is fully thawed before adding it to the peanut butter mixture.
03 -
To create chocolate curls, use a vegetable peeler on a bar of chocolate, or substitute with chocolate shavings or sprinkles.