No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares

Ever since my kitchen was out of commission for a few months last year I've been particularly interested in easy, no-bake recipes.  If the "big one" ever hits and I can't use my oven at least I can make these delicious treats.   Can you tell where my priorities lie...lol?

I asked a co-worker for some baking recommendations and they had fond memories of these No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares.  Chocolate - Peanut Butter - no-bake AND I've never made them before?  Ding, ding, ding...I sense a winner!  If you're like me and love the combo of chocolate and peanut butter these squares are right up your alley.    

No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 cups powdered sugar
1 3/4 cups graham cracker crumbs (make sure they're very finely ground)
1 cup chunky peanut butter
1 1/2 cups chocolate chips (bittersweet, semisweet or milk), melted
1/2 cup coarsely chopped dry roasted peanuts
  
Line an 8-inch square pan with foil, with ends of foil extending over sides of pan. Spray with nonstick cooking spray.

In a large bowl mix together the butter, powdered sugar, graham cracker crumbs and peanut butter.   Press in to an even layer in the square pan. With an offset spatula spread the melted chocolate evenly over the peanut butter layer.  Sprinkle with chopped peanuts.  

Refrigerate until firm, about 1 hour.  Use foil handles to remove dessert from pan; cut into squares.

NOTE:  I tried cutting in to squares directly from the fridge and found it a bit challenging.  I recommend letting it sit out until room temperature and then cutting with a very sharp knife!!