If you adore the heavenly marriage of peanut butter and chocolate, then you simply must dive into this delightful recipe: No-Bake Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Bark (Quick & Easy). It’s a luscious, three-layer treat featuring a creamy peanut butter center hugged by smooth white and milk chocolate, topped with crunchy, colorful Reese’s Pieces that add just the right pop of sweetness and texture. No ovens, no fuss—just pure, melt-in-your-mouth bliss that you can whip up in about 25 minutes and enjoy anytime you crave a sweet, nostalgic snack or dessert.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe thrives on a handful of simple, carefully chosen ingredients that work in harmony to give you that iconic Reese’s flavor experience. Each item is essential: the chocolates create the perfect balance of creamy sweetness, the peanut butter adds richness and depth, and the Reese’s Pieces bring a fun crunch plus vibrant pops of color.
- White Chocolate Baking Bars or Chips (16 oz / 450g): Provides a velvety, sweet base that pairs beautifully with peanut butter.
- Creamy Peanut Butter (1 ½ cups / 375g): The heart of the recipe, giving the bark its signature nutty richness.
- Milk Chocolate Baking Bars or Chips (12 oz / 340g): Adds a smooth, chocolaty layer that complements the peanut butter perfectly.
- Reese’s Pieces Candy (1 ½ cups / 250g): Crunchy, colorful candy coating that adds both visual appeal and bursts of sweet, peanut butter flavor.
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Enhances the overall flavor depth and rounds out the sweetness.
- Sea Salt (½ tsp, optional): A subtle touch that intensifies the chocolates and peanut butter, balancing sweetness with a hint of savory.
How to Make No-Bake Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Bark (Quick & Easy)
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Ingredients
Start by lining a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure the edges hang over the sides—this will make removing the bark a breeze later. Measure out all your ingredients so they’re within easy reach. Having everything ready sets you up for a smooth, enjoyable process.
Step 2: Create the Creamy Peanut Butter Layer
Place the white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl and melt it in 30-second bursts, stirring thoroughly after each until smooth and glossy. Then, stir in your creamy peanut butter with the vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt if you like. This mixture should be silky and uniform. Pour it into your prepared pan and spread evenly. For extra firmness, pop the pan in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before moving on.
Step 3: Add the Milk Chocolate and Candy Topping
Now melt the milk chocolate just like before—short intervals with stirring until perfectly smooth. Pour this over your peanut butter layer and gently smooth it out without disturbing the layer beneath. Before the chocolate sets, liberally sprinkle the Reese’s Pieces on top, pressing some lightly to ensure they stick. This step is where the bark really comes alive with color and crunch.
Step 4: Chill Until Firm and Ready to Enjoy
Place your bark in the refrigerator for at least 2 to 3 hours to let all layers fully set; overnight chilling is even better if you have the patience. When ready, use the parchment overhang to lift the bark from the pan easily. Peel off the parchment, then break or cut the bark into rustic pieces. Your delectable No-Bake Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Bark (Quick & Easy) is ready to enjoy immediately or store for later.
How to Serve No-Bake Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Bark (Quick & Easy)
Garnishes
While this bark is stunning on its own, adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or an extra handful of crushed Reese’s Pieces just before serving can elevate the experience. A light dusting of cocoa powder or a drizzle of melted white or milk chocolate adds a decorative touch that impresses friends and family alike.
Side Dishes
This treat pairs wonderfully with a cold glass of milk, creamy hot chocolate, or even a cup of robust coffee to balance the sweetness. For a party, consider serving alongside fresh fruit or a light, citrusy sorbet to cleanse the palate between bites of rich bark.
Creative Ways to Present
For a gift, wrap individual bark pieces in clear cellophane tied with a ribbon for an irresistible homemade snack. You can also layer pieces in a pretty jar or box for a colorful, inviting display at dessert tables or potlucks. Get creative and use your bark as a topping for ice cream sundaes or crumbled over cupcakes to surprise guests with an amazing texture and flavor combo.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The No-Bake Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Bark (Quick & Easy) keeps well at room temperature in an airtight container for up to one week. This makes it perfect for making ahead for special occasions or just having a sweet stash on hand. Just ensure it’s kept away from heat and direct sunlight to prevent melting.
Freezing
If you want to store it longer, this bark freezes beautifully. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving. It retains its texture and flavor remarkably well.
Reheating
This treat is best served chilled or at room temperature. Reheating is not recommended as it will soften the bark’s crisp layers and candy coating. If it becomes too hard after refrigeration, simply leave it out for a few minutes to soften slightly before enjoying.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a bit more texture to the center layer, giving you a nice nutty crunch alongside the Reese’s Pieces. Just keep in mind that it might be slightly less smooth when spreading.
Is it necessary to use parchment paper?
Using parchment paper is highly recommended for easy removal of the bark from the pan. Without it, the layers might stick to the pan, making it difficult to extract neat pieces.
Can I substitute Reese’s Pieces with another candy?
Yes! Feel free to get creative with your toppings. M&Ms, chopped peanuts, or mini peanut butter cups all make fantastic alternatives, each bringing a unique twist to the classic combination.
How long does the melting process usually take?
Melting chocolate in the microwave in 30-second intervals usually takes about 1 to 2 minutes total, depending on your microwave’s power. Stirring between intervals is the key to preventing burning and achieving smooth, glossy chocolate.
What’s the best way to cut the bark?
For cleaner edges, refrigerate until very firm, then use a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry before slicing. Alternatively, breaking it into rustic pieces by hand adds to the homemade charm and showcases the lovely layers and textures.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a fun, delicious, and fuss-free way to satisfy your peanut butter and chocolate cravings, the No-Bake Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Bark (Quick & Easy) is your new best friend. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s as joyful to make as it is to eat, and the vibrant Reese’s Pieces topping is like a little celebration with every bite. Trust me, once you try this treat, it will become a staple in your recipe arsenal for easy entertaining and sweet moments at home.
PrintNo-Bake Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Bark (Quick & Easy)
A quick and easy no-bake Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Bark featuring a three-layer combination of smooth white chocolate and creamy peanut butter center topped with milk chocolate and crunchy Reese’s Pieces candy. Perfect for peanut butter lovers seeking a simple yet decadent treat.
- Prep Time: 25 Minutes
- Cook Time: 0 Minutes
- Total Time: 25 Minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings (from a 9×13 inch pan) 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
White Chocolate and Peanut Butter Layer
- 16 oz (450g) White Chocolate Baking Bars or Chips
- 1 ½ cups (375g) Creamy Peanut Butter
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- ½ tsp Sea Salt (optional)
Milk Chocolate Layer
- 12 oz (340g) Milk Chocolate Baking Bars or Chips
Topping
- 1 ½ cups (250g) Reese’s Pieces Candy
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to make removal easy. Measure out all your ingredients and have them ready for assembly.
- Melt White Chocolate and Mix Peanut Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each until smooth. Then stir in the creamy peanut butter, vanilla extract, and optional sea salt until the mixture is fully combined and smooth. Pour this mixture evenly into the prepared pan. For firmer layers, chill in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before continuing.
- Melt Milk Chocolate and Add Topping: In another microwave-safe bowl, melt the milk chocolate using the same 30-second stirring intervals until smooth. Pour and gently spread the melted milk chocolate over the chilled peanut butter layer. Immediately sprinkle the Reese’s Pieces candy generously on top, pressing a few candies gently into the chocolate to help them adhere.
- Chill the Bark: Refrigerate the assembled bark for at least 2-3 hours or until completely firm—4 hours or overnight chilling is ideal for best texture and easy cutting. Once firm, lift the bark out using the parchment overhang and peel off the paper. Break into pieces or cut into squares as desired. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
Notes
- Use good quality baking chocolate for best flavor and smoothness.
- If peanut butter is too thick, gently warm it to achieve a creamier consistency before mixing.
- Pressing the Reese’s Pieces lightly into the chocolate helps them stay attached once set.
- For easier cutting, chill the bark overnight to ensure it’s firm.
- Store at room temperature away from heat to prevent melting, or keep refrigerated in warmer climates.