Ingredients:

For the Base:

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter

For the Chocolate Layer:

• 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

• 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter

For the Peanut Butter Layer:

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter

For the Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups whipped cream or whipped topping

• Chocolate shavings/chips, peanut butter chips, chopped peanuts for garnish, sprinkle Reese’s or Butterfinger (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9-inch square baking pan.

1. Prepare the Base:

• In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, powdered sugar, and 1 cup of peanut butter. Press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even layer.

1. Bake Base:

• Bake the base in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool.

1. Chocolate Layer:

• In a heatproof bowl, melt the chocolate chips and 1/4 cup peanut butter together, either using a double boiler or in short intervals in the microwave. Stir until smooth. Spread this chocolate mixture over the cooled graham cracker base.

1. Peanut Butter Layer:

• In another bowl, beat together 1 cup powdered sugar, softened butter, and 1 cup peanut butter until smooth. Spread this peanut butter mixture over the chocolate layer.

1. Chill:

• Place the pan in the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours, allowing the layers to set.

1. Top with Whipped Cream:

• Once set, spread whipped cream or whipped topping over the peanut butter layer.

1. Garnish (Optional):

• Garnish with chocolate shavings or chopped peanuts if desired.

1. Chill Again:

• Return the pan to the refrigerator and let it chill for an additional 1-2 hours before slicing.

1. Slice and Serve:

• Once fully chilled and set, slice into squares and serve. Enjoy these delicious Chocolate Peanut Butter Dream Bars!