Are you craving a delicious, satisfying treat that doesn't require hours in the kitchen? Then look no further! These Twin Bing Bars are the perfect answer. They're incredibly easy to make, requiring no baking, and offer a delightful balance of sweet and salty flavors. Perfect for a quick dessert, an after-school snack, or even a simple yet impressive addition to your next potluck, these bars are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking with this simple, yet delicious recipe!
Ingredients:
This recipe makes approximately 16 bars. Adjust quantities as needed for your desired yield.
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup salted peanuts, roughly chopped (optional)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to easily lift the finished bars out later. This is a simple step that makes cleanup a breeze!
Prepare the Crust:
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In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, and melted butter. Mix thoroughly until evenly moistened. This mixture should resemble wet sand.
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Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or your hands to ensure an even layer. This creates a sturdy base for your delicious bars.
Create the Peanut Butter Filling:
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In a separate bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk and peanut butter. Mix until completely smooth and creamy. This is where the magic happens; the combination of peanut butter and sweetened condensed milk makes for a rich and decadent filling.
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Spread the peanut butter mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to create a smooth, even layer.
Add the Chocolate and Peanuts (Optional):
- Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the peanut butter layer. If using, sprinkle the chopped salted peanuts on top for added crunch and flavor. This adds a delightful textural contrast to the creamy filling.
Chill and Enjoy:
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Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow them to firm up completely. This chilling time is crucial for achieving the perfect consistency.
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Once chilled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into 16 squares and serve.
Tips for Success:
- For a richer peanut butter flavor, use natural peanut butter (make sure to stir it well before using).
- If you prefer a less sweet bar, reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the crust or use less sweetened condensed milk.
- Feel free to get creative with toppings! Try adding pretzels, other types of nuts, or different types of chocolate chips.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Variations:
- Chocolate Peanut Butter: Replace the peanut butter with chocolate hazelnut spread for a decadent twist.
- Salted Caramel: Add a layer of salted caramel sauce between the peanut butter layer and the chocolate chips.
- Fruity Delight: Add a layer of your favorite dried fruit, such as cranberries or chopped cherries, between the layers.
Nutritional Information (per bar, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250 Fat: 14g Saturated Fat: 7g Sugar: 25g Protein: 4g
These Twin Bing Bars are a fantastic example of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas that are both delicious and satisfying. Enjoy this simple recipe and impress your family and friends with your homemade cooking skills! They're sure to become a new family favorite.