Disneyland Peanut Butter Sandwich Bars

Disneyland Peanut Butter Sandwich Bars are one of my favorite no-bake desserts when I want something rich, creamy, crunchy, and full of chocolate-peanut butter flavor. Inspired by the famous Disneyland treats, these delicious bars combine layers of crispy graham crackers, sweet peanut butter filling, and smooth semi-sweet chocolate.

I love making these homemade peanut butter sandwich bars because they require no oven, use simple pantry ingredients, and look impressive when sliced into squares. The combination of creamy peanut butter, buttery graham crackers, and decadent chocolate creates an irresistible dessert that I enjoy preparing for holidays, birthday parties, family gatherings, or whenever I’m craving something sweet.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

18–20 whole graham cracker sheets

2 cups creamy peanut butter

8 tablespoons butter, softened

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

½ teaspoon salt

3½ cups powdered sugar

4 tablespoons shortening

4 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Directions

Prepare the Baking Dish:

I start by lightly spraying a 9×13-inch glass baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. This helps prevent the graham crackers and chocolate from sticking to the bottom.

Crush the Graham Crackers:

I place 2 whole graham cracker sheets into a resealable plastic bag and crush them into fine crumbs using a rolling pin, meat mallet, or the bottom of a sturdy glass.

I set the crumbs aside because I will use them later to decorate the chocolate topping.

Make the Peanut Butter Filling:

In a large mixing bowl, I combine the creamy peanut butter, softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt.

I gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition until everything is thoroughly combined.

The mixture becomes very thick, so I sometimes use my hands to knead it into a smooth, dough-like consistency.

Melt the Chocolate:

I place the semi-sweet chocolate chips and shortening in a microwave-safe bowl.

I microwave the mixture in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each interval until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.

Also I avoid overheating the chocolate because excessive heat can cause it to become thick or grainy.

Create the First Graham Cracker Layer:

I arrange approximately 6 whole graham cracker sheets in a single layer across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

I break additional crackers into smaller pieces whenever necessary to cover the entire bottom evenly.

Add the First Chocolate Layer:

I pour approximately one-third of the melted chocolate over the graham crackers.

Using a spatula, I spread the chocolate into a thin, even layer, making sure the crackers are well covered.

Add the Peanut Butter Filling:

I flatten the prepared peanut butter mixture into an even layer using my hands.

For a neater result, I sometimes place the mixture between two sheets of parchment paper and gently roll it out.

I carefully transfer the peanut butter layer over the melted chocolate, working in smaller sections if necessary to avoid disturbing the graham crackers underneath.

Add More Chocolate and Graham Crackers:

I spread another one-third of the melted chocolate evenly over the peanut butter filling.

Next, I arrange another complete layer of graham crackers over the chocolate, breaking crackers as needed to create an even surface.

Finish with Chocolate and Crumbs:

I pour the remaining melted chocolate over the top graham cracker layer and spread it evenly with a spatula.

I immediately sprinkle the reserved graham cracker crumbs over the chocolate before it begins to set.

Chill and Serve:

I place the baking dish in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until the chocolate and peanut butter layers are completely firm.

Once chilled, I cut the dessert into 24 squares using a sharp knife.

I enjoy serving these Disneyland Peanut Butter Sandwich Bars chilled, although I sometimes let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes to slightly soften the peanut butter filling.

Servings and Timing

I love how quickly this recipe comes together, especially since most of the total preparation time is simply waiting for the bars to chill.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 0 minutes

Chilling Time: 1 hour

Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Servings: 24 bars

Calories: Approximately 430 kcal per serving (provided estimate)

Variations

Crunchy Peanut Butter Sandwich Bars:

When I want extra texture, I replace the creamy peanut butter with crunchy peanut butter. The little peanut pieces add a satisfying crunch to the sweet filling.

Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars:

I sometimes substitute dark chocolate chips for semi-sweet chocolate chips. I especially enjoy this variation when I want a deeper chocolate flavor that balances the sweet peanut butter filling.

White Chocolate Drizzle:

For a decorative finish, I melt a small amount of white chocolate and drizzle it over the chilled bars. I love how the contrasting colors make the dessert look especially appealing for celebrations.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Bars:

I occasionally mix a small amount of crispy rice cereal into the peanut butter filling. This creates a lighter, crunchier texture that works beautifully with the graham crackers.

Sea Salt Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars:

I like sprinkling a small pinch of flaky sea salt over the final chocolate layer before refrigerating. The salty finish enhances the chocolate flavor and balances the sweetness.

Milk Chocolate Sandwich Bars:

When I want a sweeter, creamier chocolate coating, I replace the semi-sweet chocolate chips with milk chocolate chips. I find this version especially enjoyable for anyone who prefers a milder chocolate flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator Storage:

I store leftover Disneyland Peanut Butter Sandwich Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

I like separating stacked layers with parchment paper to prevent the chocolate surfaces from sticking together.

Freezer Storage:

For longer storage, I place the sliced bars in a freezer-safe container, separating each layer with parchment paper.

I freeze them for up to 2 months for the best flavor and texture.

When I’m ready to enjoy them, I transfer the bars to the refrigerator and allow them to thaw gradually.

Room Temperature Storage:

I prefer keeping these bars refrigerated because the chocolate and peanut butter filling maintain their shape better when chilled.

If I’m serving them at a party, I usually take them out of the refrigerator about 10–15 minutes beforehand so the filling softens slightly.

I avoid leaving them in a warm environment because the chocolate can become soft and messy.

Reheating Instructions:

I don’t recommend reheating these peanut butter sandwich bars because they are designed to be enjoyed chilled or at a slightly softened room temperature.

If the bars are too firm straight from the refrigerator, I simply let them rest on the counter for a few minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I Make Disneyland Peanut Butter Sandwich Bars Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! I often prepare these bars the day before serving because they need time to firm up in the refrigerator.

I find that chilling them overnight makes slicing easier and helps the layers hold together beautifully.

Can I Use Natural Peanut Butter Instead of Regular Creamy Peanut Butter?

I prefer using regular creamy peanut butter because it has a consistent texture and helps the filling hold its shape.

Natural peanut butter can sometimes separate or create a softer filling, especially if it contains a lot of oil. If I use natural peanut butter, I make sure it is thoroughly stirred and well combined before adding the other ingredients.

Why Is My Peanut Butter Filling Too Crumbly?

I usually find that a crumbly filling happens when the powdered sugar isn’t fully incorporated or the peanut butter mixture is too dry.

To fix this, I knead the mixture thoroughly with my hands. If it still feels too dry, I add a small amount of creamy peanut butter until the filling becomes easier to press together.

How Do I Cut the Bars Without Cracking the Chocolate?

I like using a sharp knife warmed under hot water and dried completely before slicing.

I also allow the chilled bars to sit at room temperature for approximately 5–10 minutes before cutting.

This helps soften the chocolate slightly and makes it easier to create neat, clean squares.

Can I Freeze Disneyland Peanut Butter Sandwich Bars?

Yes! I freeze these bars whenever I want to prepare desserts ahead of time.

I cut them into individual portions, place them in an airtight freezer-safe container, and separate the layers with parchment paper.

When I’m ready to serve them, I thaw the bars in the refrigerator until they reach my preferred texture.

Conclusion

Disneyland Peanut Butter Sandwich Bars are one of my favorite homemade treats because they combine everything I love about a rich, indulgent dessert: creamy peanut butter, crispy graham crackers, and smooth chocolate.

I especially appreciate how easy this no-bake recipe is to prepare with simple ingredients and minimal effort. Whether I’m making dessert for a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or an afternoon sweet treat, these chocolate peanut butter bars always make a delicious addition to the table.

I love preparing a batch in advance, letting the layers chill until firm, and slicing them into beautiful squares. With their irresistible combination of crunchy, creamy, and chocolatey textures, these Disneyland-inspired peanut butter sandwich bars are a recipe I enjoy making again and again.

---

📖 Recipe:

Print