There is nothing quite like homestyle comfort combined with a nutty, creamy bite of sweetness, and that is exactly what you get with The BEST Nutter Butter Bars Recipe. These bars take the beloved peanut-shaped cookie you grew up loving and transform it into a magical layered dessert featuring a crunchy cookie crust, luscious peanut butter filling, and an epic topping of peanut butter chips, roasted peanuts, Reese’s Pieces, and those iconic cookie bits. Once you try them, you’ll understand why so many consider this The BEST Nutter Butter Bars Recipe—it’s perfect for dessert lovers craving creamy, crunchy, salty, and sweet all in one treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a rectangular baking pan lined with parchment paper, filled with one layer of light brown crumbly base that looks like crushed graham crackers or a similar crumb mixture. On top, there is an even scatter of tan-colored peanut butter chips and salted peanuts spread across the entire surface, giving a mix of smooth and rough texture. The pan and parchment paper edges are clearly visible, the pan is silver, and the setup is placed on a white marbled surface with a white tiled wall in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe shines because of its simplicity, yet every ingredient plays a crucial role in building the ultimate peanut butter bar experience. From the buttery cookie crust to the rich and creamy filling, and finally the crunchy, colorful toppings, each element contributes layers of texture and flavor that will keep you coming back for more.

32 Nutter Butter cookies (approx. 4 cups crumbs): The foundation of both crust and topping, these iconic cookies bring that unmistakable peanut flavor and delightful crunch.
½ cup melted butter: Binds the cookie crumbs for a firm, golden crust with a hint of richness.
2 tablespoons brown sugar: Adds a touch of caramel sweetness to balance the savory notes.
¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors while keeping the sweetness in check.
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk: The creamy, gooey glue of the filling that makes every bite decadent.
¼ cup creamy peanut butter: Melds perfectly with the condensed milk to create a luscious peanut butter filling.
1 cup peanut butter chips: Give an extra punch of peanut butter flavor and a melty texture when baked.
½ cup roasted peanuts: For crunchy, nutty bursts within the topping.
12 Nutter Butter cookies, chopped: Adds delightful texture and visuals on top.
¾ cup Reese’s Pieces candy: Offers bright pops of color and fruity notes that contrast the rich peanut butter.
Flaky sea salt (optional): A sprinkle elevates the bar with a gourmet touch and subtle saltiness.
2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter: Melted and drizzled on top for an irresistible finishing touch.

How to Make The BEST Nutter Butter Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a 9 x 13 inch pan with parchment paper for easy removal later. Crush the 32 Nutter Butter cookies into fine crumbs using your favorite method—food processor, blender, or place them in a ziptop bag and roll a pin over them. Mixing the crumbs with the brown sugar and salt ensures even flavor distribution. Stir in the melted butter to create a crumbly, butter-rich mixture. Firmly press this crust into the bottom of your prepared pan using a glass or flat-bottomed measuring cup, which helps compact the crust evenly. This step sets the stage for all the luscious layers to come.

Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Filling

In a medium microwave-safe bowl, gently melt ¼ cup of creamy peanut butter for about 30 seconds, just until smooth and runny. Stir in the entire can of sweetened condensed milk, mixing well until fully combined. This mixture will be poured over the cookie crust and acts as the creamy glue binding the whole dessert together. The richness of the condensed milk combined with peanut butter’s signature flavor gives these bars their signature gooey, dreamy texture.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

Sprinkle the peanut butter chips and roasted peanuts evenly over the pressed crust, adding delightful crunch and bursts of peanut goodness to every bite. Next, pour the peanut butter-condensed milk mixture over these toppings, allowing the filling to seep in and meld with every nook of the crust and nuts. Scatter the chopped Nutter Butter cookies and colorful Reese’s Pieces candies on top to add layers of sweetness, texture, and eye-catching color. Use a spatula or fork to gently press the toppings into the filling so everything sticks nicely during baking. If you like, finish with a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt, which balances out the sweetness beautifully.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake the bars for 30 to 35 minutes until the edges turn a perfectly golden brown—a sign the crust is set and the topping is delightfully melty. Once baked, transfer the pan to a wire rack and let it cool completely. For the best texture and sliceability, chill the bars in the refrigerator before serving.

Step 5: The Finishing Drizzle

Before serving, melt 2 tablespoons of creamy peanut butter in the microwave and drizzle it generously over the cooled bars. This last touch adds an extra layer of creaminess and peanut butter flavor that makes The BEST Nutter Butter Bars Recipe truly irresistible.

How to Serve The BEST Nutter Butter Bars Recipe

A large square of dessert bars made of a golden brown cookie base, cut into 20 small rectangles arranged in 5 rows and 4 columns. The top layer is covered with bright candy pieces in orange, yellow, and dark brown colors, scattered evenly. There is a drizzle of light brown sauce on top, being poured from a silver spoon held by a woman's hand at the right side. The dessert sits on a white marbled surface with a white and gray striped cloth slightly visible in the top left corner and a partially opened bright orange candy bag at the top right. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a few roasted peanuts or a light dusting of powdered sugar can make your bars look as good as they taste. The flaky sea salt you sprinkle before baking adds a nice finishing touch that brings out the nutty and sweet flavors even more.

Side Dishes

The BEST Nutter Butter Bars Recipe pairs wonderfully with a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to complement the rich, peanut buttery goodness. A cold glass of milk or a creamy latte also makes an ideal companion to balance each bite.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or casual get-togethers, cut the bars into small, bite-sized squares and serve them on a decorative platter sprinkled with extra Reese’s Pieces or chopped peanuts. You can also layer them in clear jars as gifts or sweet treats for friends, showcasing their colorful toppings and inviting all to dig in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps them fresh and firm, preserving the richness of the peanut butter topping and preventing the crust from becoming soggy.

Freezing

If you want to save these for longer, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When frozen, these bars can keep their delicious flavor for about 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Reheating

For a warm, melty treat, reheat your chilled bar in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This will soften the peanut butter layer without compromising the bars’ structure, making every bite gooey and delightful.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add extra texture, giving your filling a bit of a nutty crunch. Just keep in mind the overall texture of the bars will shift slightly, but it will still be delicious.

What if I don’t have Reese’s Pieces? Can I use something else?

Totally! You can swap Reese’s Pieces with mini M&Ms, chopped peanut butter cups, or even crushed nuts. The goal is to add a pop of color and some extra texture on top, so feel free to get creative.

Is there a vegan version of The BEST Nutter Butter Bars Recipe?

Traditional Nutter Butter cookies and sweetened condensed milk aren’t vegan, but you can experiment with vegan peanut butter cookies and a plant-based condensed milk alternative. The flavor will be slightly different but still remarkably tasty!

How do I get the crust to press evenly without crumbling?

Melted butter is the secret here. Mixing it thoroughly with the cookie crumbs and pressing firmly with a flat-bottom cup or your fingers ensures the crust holds together and bakes into a crisp base.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Sadly, the original Nutter Butter cookies contain gluten, but if you find a gluten-free peanut butter cookie that you love, you can substitute it to make a gluten-free version. Just keep the texture similar for the best results.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing dessert that perfectly balances nostalgic flavors with an indulgent twist, then you owe it to yourself to make The BEST Nutter Butter Bars Recipe. It’s a guaranteed winner for family gatherings, bake sales, or just to satisfy a peanut buttery craving any day of the week. Trust me, once these bars hit your kitchen, they’ll quickly become your go-to dessert when you want something truly special.