How to Make REESE’S Peanut Butter-Chocolate Revel Bars – A Rich, Easy Dessert

Ingredients Overview

Making REESE’S Peanut Butter-Chocolate Revel Bars is all about using simple pantry staples to create a rich, layered dessert. Each ingredient plays a specific role in creating the chewy texture and bold flavor of these bars.

For the cookie base and topping:

• Unsalted butter (1 cup/225g): Adds richness and helps create a soft, chewy cookie texture.

• Brown sugar (2 cups/400g): Enhances moisture and gives a deep, caramel-like sweetness.

• Large eggs (2): Bind the ingredients and add structure.

• Vanilla extract (2 tsp): Enhances all other flavors with its warm aroma.

• All-purpose flour (2½ cups/315g): Provides the base structure (more on flour).

• Baking soda (1 tsp): A leavening agent that gives a light rise (what it does).

• Salt (½ tsp): Balances the sweetness.

• Quick oats (3 cups): Add chewiness and structure. Unlike old-fashioned oats (types of oats), quick oats blend better into the dough for a softer texture.

For the filling:

• Sweetened condensed milk (1 can/14 oz): Creates a creamy, thick base for the filling.

• REESE’S peanut butter chips (1½ cups): Add a concentrated peanut butter flavor.

• Creamy peanut butter (¼ cup): Gives a smooth, nutty consistency to the filling.

• Vanilla extract (2 tsp): Adds aroma and depth.

• Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup): Provide melty chocolate in every bite.

These ingredients combine for a perfectly balanced bar that’s rich, chewy, and layered with sweet, nutty, and chocolatey flavors. You can find similar peanut butter dessert bars on Pinterest, which often use the same classic ingredients.

Equipment & Prep Tips

Before you start, it helps to gather all your tools and prep your workspace for a smooth baking experience. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 9×13-inch baking pan: The ideal size for spreading and layering the ingredients evenly.

• Parchment paper or non-stick spray: Lining the pan makes it easy to lift the bars out after baking.

• Mixing bowls: One for wet ingredients, one for dry.

• Saucepan: To melt the peanut butter chips and condensed milk for the filling.

• Wooden spoon or spatula: For mixing the thick oat dough.

Prep Tips:

• Let the butter soften to room temperature for easier creaming.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before mixing to save time.

• Always measure your flour correctly — spoon it into the cup and level it off.

• Use Pinterest tips for properly creaming butter and sugar for a fluffier texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to make perfect REESE’S Revel Bars every time.

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step is key for a soft texture and sets the foundation for the oat dough.

Step 2: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract. Mixing them in gradually ensures everything is evenly incorporated and gives a smoother dough.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This helps the baking soda distribute evenly and gives the bars an even rise.

Step 4: Mix in the Oats
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Once mostly combined, stir in the quick oats. The dough will be thick and slightly sticky — perfect for layering.

Step 5: Make the Peanut Butter Filling
In a saucepan over low heat, melt the sweetened condensed milk, REESE’S peanut butter chips, and creamy peanut butter. Stir constantly until smooth and remove from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.

Step 6: Layer the Base
Press two-thirds of the oat dough into your prepared pan to form an even base. Use clean hands or the back of a spoon to press it down tightly.

Step 7: Spread the Filling
Pour the peanut butter mixture over the oat base and spread evenly using a spatula.

Step 8: Add Chocolate Chips
Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the filling. You can also try variations like chocolate chip desserts if you want to experiment with different flavors.

Step 9: Add the Topping
Drop small spoonfuls of the remaining oat dough across the top. It doesn’t need to be perfectly even — the rustic look adds charm.

Step 10: Bake
Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The top should be golden brown and the filling should be set but slightly gooey.

Step 11: Cool and Cut
Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting. This allows the filling to firm up and makes slicing easier.

For holiday gatherings or potlucks, you can find many similar dessert bars for potlucks that follow the same layering and baking methods.

Pro Tips for the Best Revel Bars

• Avoid overbaking. These bars will continue to set as they cool.

• Use a warm knife for cleaner slices — run the knife under hot water, then dry before cutting.

• Let the bars rest overnight for even better flavor and a firmer texture.

• Want more variation ideas? Browse easy holiday bar desserts to get inspired.

Storage & Shelf Life

Proper storage helps keep your REESE’S bars soft and fresh:

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

• Refrigerator: For a firmer texture, store up to a week.

• Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic and freeze for up to 2 months.

When freezing, layer parchment paper between the bars to keep them from sticking. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

There are so many ways to customize this dessert:

• Swap chocolate chips with white or dark chocolate.

• Use REESE’S Pieces or chopped REESE’S cups for more peanut butter punch.

• Add-ins like chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or crushed pretzels add texture.

• For a gluten-free version, use certified GF oats and a gluten-free flour blend.

• Vegan? Try coconut condensed milk and dairy-free chips.

You can explore Pinterest boards for other creative combinations and crowd-pleasing ideas.

How to Serve REESE’S Revel Bars

These bars are great at room temperature, but here are a few fun serving options:

• Warm a square and top with vanilla ice cream.

• Drizzle with melted chocolate or peanut butter sauce.

• Cut into mini squares for party platters or lunchboxes.

For other presentation ideas, browse Pinterest dessert inspiration to match your theme or event.

Can You Make These Bars Ahead of Time?

Yes, these bars are perfect for making ahead:

• Before baking: Assemble, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

• After baking: Cool completely, then store or freeze.

• When serving later, warm slightly in the microwave or oven for that freshly baked feel.

They’re one of the best make-ahead dessert bars for busy weeks or holiday events.

Nutrition Breakdown (approximate)

Each bar (based on 24 squares) contains:

• Calories: 290–320

• Carbohydrates: 35g

• Fat: 16g

• Sugar: 22g

• Protein: 5g

These are estimations and can vary based on the exact brands used and portion sizes. Cut smaller squares for lighter snacking.

FAQs – People Also Ask

Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick oats?
Yes, but the texture will be denser and more noticeable. Quick oats give a softer bite.

Can I substitute almond butter for peanut butter?
Yes, almond butter works well and adds a subtle, nutty flavor. Be sure it’s creamy and not too oily.

What if I don’t have sweetened condensed milk?
You can make your own using milk and sugar, but the consistency may vary. For best results, use canned condensed milk.

Are REESE’S chips gluten-free?
Most REESE’S peanut butter chips are gluten-free, but always check the packaging to be sure.

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Yes! Use two 9×13-inch pans or a larger sheet pan, and extend the baking time slightly.

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