Midwestern Magic: No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars

In a medium bowl, stir together melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, and 1 cup of peanut butter until fully combined.
Press the peanut butter mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking pan.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with the remaining ¼ cup peanut butter in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth.
Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the peanut butter layer and spread evenly with a spatula.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until the chocolate is set.
Slice into squares and serve.

For extra crunch, mix in ½ cup chopped peanuts with the peanut butter layer.
Swap semisweet chips for dark chocolate chips for a bolder chocolate flavor.
Experiment with other nut butters like almond or cashew for a new twist.
Sprinkle flaky sea salt or crushed candy canes over the melted chocolate for a festive touch before chilling.

These bars are more than just a dessert—they’re a bite of Midwestern nostalgia and a sweet reminder of the simple joys that bring us together.