Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge Bars

Parting is such sweet sorrow. This has been a tough week for this gal to endure, as I embark upon a new journey in my career and have to say goodbye to some of the nearest & dearest friends & colleagues anyone could ask for.

To show my love & appreciation, I just couldn't leave without one last effort to deliver some sweet treats to everyone on the team. A hectic week I've had left me with some options... I wanted something easy, simple, but still amazing. By request of a few special peeps, chocolate + Peanut butter was their choice. But chocolate peanut butter...... what? cookies? cupcakes? The options are endless. I settled on a no-bake bar. Alla fudge style.

These couldn't be easier to throw together. A food processor (or simply a bowl will even do, with a fork to mix), a microwave, and a freezer/refrigerator is all that is needed. Next time you need to bake to impress, check this out. Best part? NO BAKING!

Ingredients:

PB layer:

2 1/2 cups crushed graham crackers

3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

1 cup creamy, natural peanut butter (your favorite brand  of PB will do just fine)

1 3/4 cup powdered sugar

Chocolate layer:

1 3/4 cup semi sweet chocolate morsels
1/3 cup creamy peanut butter

Topping:
1 cup chopped salted peanuts



Assembly:

In your food processor (or in a medium bowl), combine the ingredients for the Peanut Butter layer. Pulse together the crushed graham crackers, butter, peanut butter, and powdered sugar until well combined and it forms a sticky dough. If you don't have a food processor, crush up the graham crackers in a bag or seperate bowl, then add to the mixture and incorporate thoroughly. Grease a 9x9 inch pan and line with parchment paper. Spread the peanut butter layer evenly and place in the freezer while you assemble the chocolate layer.

In a microwavable bowl, combine the chocolate chip morsels, and the remaining 1/3 cup peanut butter. Microwave for 30 seconds at a time, after each 30 second internal mix the morsel mixture well to spread out the heat. Microwave again for 30 seconds, stirring very very well until the mixture is melted and incorporated. Let it cool for a few minutes, then pour over the peanut butter layer. Top with crushed peanuts evenly, and place in the fridge for at least 20 minutes or until sets firmly. Slice with a warm knife, and enjoy! If no serving immediately, keep stored in the fridge until served.