Crispy Peanut Butter Chocolate Log: A No-Bake Dessert Sensation

Are you craving a decadent dessert that’s easy to make and doesn’t require turning on the oven? Look no further! This Crispy Peanut Butter Chocolate Log is the answer to your sweet tooth’s prayers. It’s a delightful combination of crunchy textures, creamy peanut butter, and rich chocolate, all rolled into one satisfying log. Perfect for parties, holidays, or just a simple weeknight treat, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.

## Why You’ll Love This Recipe

* **No-Bake:** That’s right, no oven required! This makes it perfect for hot summer days or when you’re short on time.
* **Easy to Make:** The recipe is straightforward and uses simple ingredients, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
* **Customizable:** You can easily adapt the recipe to your preferences by adding different nuts, candies, or extracts.
* **Delicious:** The combination of peanut butter, chocolate, and crispy elements is simply irresistible.
* **Make-Ahead Friendly:** This log can be made a day or two in advance, making it ideal for entertaining.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start, gather these ingredients. You likely have many of them in your pantry already!

* **Graham Crackers:** These provide the base for our crispy texture. Approximately 1 1/2 sleeves (about 12 crackers, depending on size) will be needed. You’ll be crushing them, so don’t worry about them being perfectly intact.
* **Creamy Peanut Butter:** Use your favorite brand of creamy peanut butter. Avoid natural peanut butter that separates, as it will affect the texture of the log. One cup (250g) is the standard quantity but you can add more if you are looking for a more peanut-buttery flavor.
* **Powdered Sugar:** This sweetens the mixture and helps bind the ingredients together. Approximately 2 cups (240g) is what is suggested, though you might need more or less depending on the consistency of the mixture.
* **Unsalted Butter:** Melted butter adds richness and moisture. Use unsalted butter to control the overall saltiness of the log. You’ll need about 1/2 cup (113g).
* **Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips:** These create the decadent chocolate coating. Opt for good-quality chocolate chips for the best flavor. About 12 ounces (340g) is the usual measurement. If you like dark chocolate, you can substitute with that instead.
* **Vegetable Shortening:** Adding a bit of vegetable shortening to the melted chocolate helps create a smooth, glossy coating. You can substitute with coconut oil, but the flavor will be slightly different. Use 1 tablespoon (15ml).
* **Vanilla Extract:** A touch of vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor of the log. Use 1 teaspoon (5ml) of pure vanilla extract.
* **Optional Add-Ins:** Chopped nuts (such as peanuts, pecans, or walnuts), mini chocolate chips, sprinkles, or toffee bits. These add extra flavor and texture.

## Equipment Needed

* **Large Bowl:** For mixing the peanut butter mixture.
* **Food Processor (Optional):** To crush the graham crackers, or you can use a zip-top bag and rolling pin.
* **Microwave-Safe Bowl:** For melting the chocolate.
* **Rubber Spatula:** For mixing and spreading.
* **Parchment Paper or Wax Paper:** To line the baking sheet and prevent sticking.
* **Baking Sheet:** To chill the log.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get started! Follow these simple steps to create your own Crispy Peanut Butter Chocolate Log.

### Step 1: Crush the Graham Crackers

First, you need to crush the graham crackers into fine crumbs. There are two ways to do this:

* **Food Processor Method:** Place the graham crackers in a food processor and pulse until they are finely ground. This is the quickest and easiest method.
* **Zip-Top Bag Method:** Place the graham crackers in a large zip-top bag. Seal the bag and use a rolling pin to crush the crackers into fine crumbs. This method is a bit more manual but works just as well.

Once the graham crackers are crushed, set them aside.

### Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Use a rubber spatula or electric mixer to mix the ingredients together until they are well combined and smooth. The mixture should be thick and creamy.

### Step 3: Incorporate the Graham Cracker Crumbs

Add the crushed graham cracker crumbs to the peanut butter mixture. Mix until the crumbs are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. If you are adding any optional add-ins, such as chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips, now is the time to incorporate them.

### Step 4: Shape the Log

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper. This will prevent the log from sticking.

Transfer the peanut butter mixture to the prepared baking sheet. Use your hands or a rubber spatula to shape the mixture into a log. The log should be approximately 8-10 inches long and 3-4 inches in diameter. Try to make it as uniform in shape as possible.

### Step 5: Chill the Log

Place the baking sheet with the peanut butter log in the refrigerator. Chill for at least 30 minutes, or until the log is firm enough to handle. This will make it easier to coat with chocolate.

### Step 6: Melt the Chocolate

While the log is chilling, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips and vegetable shortening in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate, as it can burn.

Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate using a double boiler. Fill a saucepan with a few inches of water and bring to a simmer. Place a heat-safe bowl on top of the saucepan, making sure the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Add the chocolate chips and vegetable shortening to the bowl and stir until melted and smooth.

### Step 7: Coat the Log with Chocolate

Remove the peanut butter log from the refrigerator. Place it on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This will catch any excess chocolate.

Pour the melted chocolate over the log, making sure to coat it completely. Use a spatula or spoon to spread the chocolate evenly over the surface of the log. If desired, you can sprinkle the log with additional toppings, such as chopped nuts, sprinkles, or sea salt, before the chocolate sets.

### Step 8: Chill Again

Place the chocolate-coated log back in the refrigerator. Chill for at least 1 hour, or until the chocolate is completely set.

### Step 9: Slice and Serve

Once the chocolate is set, remove the log from the refrigerator. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 1/2-inch to 1-inch thick slices. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

## Tips for Success

* **Use Room Temperature Peanut Butter:** This will make it easier to mix with the other ingredients.
* **Don’t Overheat the Chocolate:** Overheated chocolate can become grainy and difficult to work with. Heat in short intervals and stir frequently.
* **Chill Thoroughly:** Chilling the log before and after coating it with chocolate is essential for maintaining its shape and preventing the chocolate from melting.
* **Get Creative with Toppings:** Feel free to experiment with different toppings to customize your log to your liking. Some popular options include chopped nuts, sprinkles, sea salt, and toffee bits.
* **Use High-Quality Chocolate:** The better the quality of the chocolate, the better the flavor of the finished log.

## Variations

* **Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Log:** Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a richer, more intense flavor.
* **White Chocolate Peanut Butter Log:** Use white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a sweeter, creamier log. Add some crushed oreos to the peanut butter mixture.
* **Nutella Peanut Butter Log:** Substitute some of the peanut butter with Nutella for a hazelnut-chocolate twist. About 1/4 cup of Nutella in addition to the peanut butter. Reduce the powdered sugar slightly.
* **Vegan Peanut Butter Chocolate Log:** Use vegan butter, vegan chocolate chips, and a plant-based milk alternative (if needed) to make this recipe vegan.
* **Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Chocolate Log:** Use gluten-free graham crackers to make this recipe gluten-free. Be sure to check all ingredient labels to ensure they are gluten-free.

## Serving Suggestions

* Serve slices of the Crispy Peanut Butter Chocolate Log as a dessert at parties or gatherings.
* Wrap slices individually and give them as gifts.
* Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra-indulgent treat.
* Pair with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy dessert experience.

## Storage Instructions

Store leftover slices of the Crispy Peanut Butter Chocolate Log in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The log can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

*Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*

* Calories: 250-350 per slice
* Fat: 15-25g
* Saturated Fat: 8-15g
* Cholesterol: 20-40mg
* Sodium: 50-150mg
* Carbohydrates: 25-40g
* Sugar: 15-25g
* Protein: 5-10g

## Recipe Card

**Crispy Peanut Butter Chocolate Log**

**Yields:** Approximately 12-16 slices
**Prep Time:** 20 minutes
**Chill Time:** 1 hour 30 minutes

**Ingredients:**

* 1 1/2 sleeves graham crackers, crushed
* 1 cup creamy peanut butter
* 2 cups powdered sugar
* 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
* 1 tablespoon vegetable shortening
* Optional: chopped nuts, mini chocolate chips, sprinkles

**Instructions:**

1. Crush the graham crackers into fine crumbs using a food processor or zip-top bag and rolling pin.
2. In a large bowl, combine peanut butter, powdered sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
3. Add crushed graham crackers to the peanut butter mixture and mix until evenly distributed. Add optional add-ins if desired.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Shape the mixture into a log on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Chill the log in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or until firm.
6. Melt chocolate chips and vegetable shortening in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Alternatively, melt using a double boiler.
7. Remove the log from the refrigerator and place it on a wire rack over a baking sheet.
8. Pour melted chocolate over the log, coating it completely. Sprinkle with additional toppings if desired.
9. Chill the chocolate-coated log for at least 1 hour, or until the chocolate is set.
10. Slice and serve. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Enjoy your delicious Crispy Peanut Butter Chocolate Log! This simple yet decadent treat is sure to impress your friends and family. Happy baking (or, more accurately, happy no-baking)!