Okay, gather ’round, my friends! Let me tell you about my quest to recreate a Disney magic moment right here in my own kitchen. It all started during our family trip to Disneyland last year. My youngest, bless her heart, is a peanut butter fanatic. She spotted these dreamy peanut butter bars at one of the treat shops, and it was love at first bite.

Seriously, she declared them the “best thing ever invented!” Of course, when we got home, she immediately started begging me to make them. So, I took on the challenge, determined to create copycat Disneyland peanut butter bars that would bring a little of that Disney magic back home. After a few (ahem, several) attempts and lots of taste-testing (tough job, right?), I finally cracked the code!

These bars are seriously addictive. Think rich, creamy peanut butter filling nestled between a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth chocolate topping. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures that’s pure peanut butter bliss. What I love most is how easy they are to make. Even on busy weeknights, I can whip up a batch, and my family devours them in minutes. Plus, they’re perfect for potlucks, bake sales, or just a simple treat after dinner. It’s like bringing a piece of the Magic Kingdom straight to your table!

One of the things I struggled with at first was getting the peanut butter filling just right. It needed to be firm enough to hold its shape but still melt-in-your-mouth creamy. I played around with different ratios of peanut butter, butter, and powdered sugar until I finally landed on the perfect combination. The other challenge was preventing the chocolate topping from cracking when I cut the bars. But I’ve discovered a simple trick (which I’ll share later!) that guarantees a smooth, clean cut every time.

My family goes absolutely nuts for these bars. My husband, who isn’t even the biggest peanut butter fan, sneaks them from the fridge. And my daughter? Well, she thinks I’m a baking genius!

So, if you’re ready to bring a little Disney magic into your kitchen, I can’t wait for you to try these copycat Disneyland peanut butter bars. They’ve become such a staple in our house!

Ingredients

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1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs: (About 10-12 full sheets, finely crushed) Don’t have graham crackers? Digestive biscuits work too!
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted: I always use unsalted butter in baking, so I can control the amount of salt. If you only have salted, just omit the pinch of salt in the filling.

1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds just a touch of sweetness to the crust.
2 cups creamy peanut butter: I prefer using regular creamy peanut butter, not the natural kind (the kind with the oil separation) for this recipe. It gives the bars the best texture.
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: Make sure it’s really softened, not melted. This is crucial for a smooth filling.

4 cups powdered sugar: This is what gives the filling its sweetness and structure.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a lovely flavor. I use pure vanilla extract; imitation vanilla doesn’t give the same flavor.

12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips: You can also use milk chocolate or dark chocolate, depending on your preference. I have used both depending on what I have at home.
2 tablespoons vegetable shortening: This is my secret to a smooth, crack-free chocolate topping!

My kids prefer a milder peanut butter flavor, so I tend to stick with a classic creamy peanut butter. But feel free to experiment with different varieties like honey roasted or even a little bit of crunchy peanut butter for added texture. You could check out more options on The Walt Disney World Website.

For the chocolate chips, I always buy a good quality brand. It really makes a difference in the flavor and how smoothly it melts. I also try to buy my butter in bulk when it’s on sale. I freeze it, and it keeps well for months. And here’s a little kitchen secret my mom taught me: If you forget to soften your butter, you can microwave it for a few seconds at a time, but be careful not to melt it! I have also put the butter in a zip lock bag then put the bag in a bowl of warm water for a bit.

If you are dealing with a peanut allergy Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE) is a wonderful resource. Remember, safety first when dealing with allergies!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Instructions for Making Copycat Disneyland Peanut Butter Bars

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Make the graham cracker crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking pan. I like to use the bottom of a measuring cup to really pack it down. Ensuring an even crust is key to a stable base.
Prepare the peanut butter filling: In a large bowl, beat together the peanut butter and softened butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and salt, beating until well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract. The mixture will be thick. Don’t rush this step; a smooth filling makes all the difference.
Spread the filling: Spread the peanut butter filling evenly over the graham cracker crust. This can be a little tricky because the filling is so thick, but just take your time and spread it as evenly as possible. Using an offset spatula can help achieve a smooth surface.

Melt the chocolate: In a heat-safe bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water (or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between), melt the chocolate chips and vegetable shortening, stirring until smooth. The vegetable shortening is key to preventing the chocolate from cracking later. Stir continuously to prevent burning.
Pour and spread: Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter filling and spread it evenly. Make sure the chocolate covers the entire surface for that perfect finish.
Chill: Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the bars to set completely. Patience is a virtue – this step is crucial!

Cut and serve: Once the bars are firm, remove them from the refrigerator and cut them into squares. I like to use a warm, sharp knife for clean cuts. Run the knife under hot water and wipe it dry before each cut. This trick ensures clean, professional-looking slices.

Don’t worry if the crust seems a little crumbly at first – it will firm up as it chills. I learned the hard way to let the chocolate cool slightly before pouring it over the peanut butter filling. If it’s too hot, it can melt the peanut butter and create a swirly mess. If you are finding your chocolate is not smooth, add 1/2 tsp of vegetable oil at a time to your melted chocolate until desired consistency.

My husband always asks me to make a double batch because he loves taking them to work for a midday treat. If you want to make a smaller batch, you can easily halve the recipe and bake it in an 8×8 inch pan. If you overbeat the peanut butter filling, it can become too soft. If this happens, just pop it in the freezer for a few minutes to firm it up before spreading it on the crust.

Serving Ideas

In my house, these peanut butter bars never last long! But when I do manage to serve them with a little fanfare, here’s what I do:

We love having these bars as a special dessert after a simple family dinner. They’re also perfect for potlucks, bake sales, or any occasion where you need a crowd-pleasing treat. I like to cut them into small squares for easy serving. You can also garnish them with a sprinkle of sea salt or chopped peanuts for a fancy touch. A little sea salt enhances the sweetness and adds a gourmet touch.

I like to drizzle a little melted chocolate over the top for extra flair. Or, if I’m feeling adventurous, I’ll add a layer of whipped cream and some chocolate shavings. The kids always fight over who gets the corner pieces!

This has become our go-to dessert for birthday parties and holiday gatherings. They’re always a hit, and everyone raves about them. This recipe says it serves 16, but in our house it barely feeds 8 hungry people. My daughter always asks for a glass of milk with her peanut butter bars. If we somehow have leftovers (which is rare!), I store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep for up to a week. Proper storage keeps them fresh and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter? While you can, I don’t recommend it for the filling. Natural peanut butter tends to be oily and can make the filling too soft. I suggest using regular creamy peanut butter for the best results.
Can I freeze these bars? Absolutely! They freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Let them thaw in the refrigerator before serving. Freezing is a great way to keep them on hand for unexpected guests.

How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking when I cut the bars? The key is to add vegetable shortening to the chocolate chips when melting. This helps the chocolate stay smooth and pliable. Also, use a warm, sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts.
Can I make these bars gluten-free? Yes, you can! Just use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust. I’ve tried it, and it works perfectly. A simple swap for a gluten-free delight!
Can I add a layer of chocolate ganache instead of just melted chocolate? Absolutely! A layer of chocolate ganache would be delicious. Just combine equal parts of heavy cream and chocolate chips, heat until melted and smooth, and then pour it over the peanut butter filling. This adds an extra layer of decadence.

Can I use a different type of nut butter? I haven’t tested other nut butters, so I cannot guarantee the same results. If you experiment, let me know how it goes!

My mother-in-law is on a low-sugar diet, so here’s how I modify it for her: I use sugar-free graham crackers and a sugar substitute in the peanut butter filling. You will need to check your ratios for any substitution of sugar. I’ve definitely overcooked the chocolate before – here’s how to avoid that! Melt the chocolate slowly and stir frequently to prevent burning. Don’t have a stand mixer? No problem – I use my hand mixer and it works great! This recipe is adaptable to different needs and preferences.

Conclusion

Finished Copycat Disneyland Peanut Butter Bars

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These copycat Disneyland peanut butter bars have become a cherished treat in our family. They remind us of happy memories, fun-filled vacations, and the simple joy of sharing something delicious together. I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your family as it has to mine.

Always let the bars chill completely before cutting them – it makes a huge difference in the texture. I learned this the hard way when I served them too soon and they fell apart!
Use a good quality chocolate for the topping – it really elevates the flavor.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations – add a layer of caramel, sprinkle with chopped nuts, or use different types of chocolate. The possibilities are endless!

My son loves it with extra chocolate, while my daughter prefers them plain. Don’t be intimidated – if I can make this on a busy Tuesday night, you absolutely can too! I’d love to hear how this turns out for your family – drop me a comment!

Happy cooking, and I hope these copycat Disneyland peanut butter bars become as beloved in your kitchen as they are in mine! I’ve also been known to make a batch of these and follow it up with Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Brownies or Easy Delicious Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie. Enjoy the baking adventure!

Perfect Copycat Disneyland Peanut Butter Bars

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These Disneyland Copycat Peanut Butter Bars are rich, decadent, and oh-so-satisfying. Get ready to recreate the magic at home!

Author: Kiera
Prep Time: 20

Total Time: 140
Yield: 24 1x
Category: Dessert

Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

1 cup creamy peanut butter
2 cups powdered sugar
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs

12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter

Instructions

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and peanut butter until smooth.

Gradually beat in the powdered sugar until well combined.
Stir in the graham cracker crumbs until evenly distributed.
Press the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and 1/4 cup butter together in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer and spread evenly.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate is set.