Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter White Chocolate Bark: A Beginner’s Guide to a Sweet Treat

Sharing is caring!

Baking doesn’t always have to involve complex techniques or hours spent in the kitchen. Sometimes, the best treats come from simple recipes that anyone can make — even beginners. One such recipe that’s perfect for those just starting their baking journey is Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter White Chocolate Bark. It’s quick, no-bake, and requires just a few ingredients, making it ideal for anyone looking to whip up something sweet in a short amount of time. This treat is a combination of creamy peanut butter, smooth white chocolate, and the delightful crunch of Reese’s Pieces candy, all layered together to create a dessert that’s irresistibly delicious.

Print

Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, looking for a fun activity with kids, or simply in the mood for a satisfying snack, this white chocolate bark is sure to please. It’s also an excellent introduction to working with chocolate and peanut butter, two ingredients that are staples in the baking world. Best of all, it requires no fancy equipment or techniques, so it’s an approachable recipe for beginners. By the time you’ve finished, you’ll have a batch of homemade bark that tastes as if it came from a bakery.

Ingredients and Preparation

To make this Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter White Chocolate Bark, you don’t need many ingredients. In fact, this recipe is designed to be simple, requiring just a few key components that you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 16 ounces (454g) white chocolate, coarsely chopped and divided
• 1 teaspoon vegetable oil, divided
• 1 cup (250g) creamy peanut butter
• 1/4 cup (4 Tbsp; 56g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 cup (120g) confectioners’ sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (100g) chopped Reese’s Pieces candies

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions:

• White Chocolate: For the best flavor and texture, it’s crucial to use high-quality white chocolate. Avoid white chocolate morsels, as they often contain additional ingredients that can affect the texture when melted. Ghirardelli, Lindt, or Baker’s brand white chocolate bars are all great choices.
• Peanut Butter: Use creamy peanut butter for the best results. Natural peanut butter, which separates into oil and solids, can cause the bark to turn out less smooth. The processed variety works best for consistency.
• Reese’s Pieces: These candy-coated peanut butter pieces provide a delightful crunch and sweet burst of flavor. If you can’t find Reese’s Pieces, you could substitute with chopped peanut butter cups or any other chocolate candy you like, though the flavor will differ slightly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s break down the process into easy-to-follow steps so you can create your own batch of Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter White Chocolate Bark:

Step 1: Prepare your baking pan Start by lining a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Make sure to leave a little overhang to make it easier to lift the bark out of the pan later. This will help with removing the finished bark without sticking or breaking.

Step 2: Melt the first batch of white chocolate Place half of your chopped white chocolate (about 8 ounces) and 1/2 teaspoon of vegetable oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave the mixture in 20-second intervals, stirring with a silicone spatula after each interval to ensure the chocolate melts evenly. White chocolate can burn easily, so be patient and avoid overheating it. Once fully melted and smooth, pour the chocolate into the prepared pan and use an offset spatula to spread it evenly across the bottom of the pan. Refrigerate the pan for 10-15 minutes to allow the chocolate to soft-set.

Step 3: Make the peanut butter layer In a medium mixing bowl, beat the creamy peanut butter and softened butter with a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Mix for about 2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt, and continue mixing for another minute or until everything is combined. You should have a thick and creamy peanut butter mixture.

Step 4: Spread the peanut butter mixture Once the white chocolate layer has chilled, take the pan out of the fridge. Spoon dollops of the peanut butter mixture onto the white chocolate and spread it evenly using an offset spatula. Try to cover the white chocolate as evenly as possible with the peanut butter layer. Return the pan to the refrigerator while you prepare the next batch of white chocolate.

Step 5: Melt the second batch of white chocolate Repeat the process for the remaining white chocolate and vegetable oil. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring after each interval until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. Pour the melted white chocolate over the peanut butter layer, spreading it evenly across the top with an offset spatula. Make sure to cover the peanut butter completely.

Step 6: Add the Reese’s Pieces While the top layer of white chocolate is still soft, sprinkle the chopped Reese’s Pieces candies evenly over the surface. Press them down gently so they stick to the chocolate.

Step 7: Chill and set Refrigerate the pan, uncovered, for at least 30 to 60 minutes to allow the bark to fully set. If you prefer, you can refrigerate it for up to a day, but cover it loosely after an hour. Don’t worry if the top layer cracks slightly when you cut the bark later — this is normal, and it won’t affect the flavor.

Step 8: Cut and serve Once the bark has fully set, remove it from the refrigerator. Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the entire block of bark out of the pan and place it on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to cut the bark into pieces of your desired size.

Beginner Tips and Notes

1. Melting the White Chocolate: Be careful not to overheat the white chocolate, as it can easily burn or seize up. Melting in short intervals and stirring frequently ensures that it melts evenly and maintains a smooth texture.
2. Consistency of Peanut Butter Layer: If your peanut butter mixture is too thick to spread easily, try softening the peanut butter and butter further or adding a teaspoon of vegetable oil to loosen it up.
3. Refrigerating the Bark: If you’re in a rush, you can freeze the bark for about 15 minutes to speed up the setting process. However, leaving it in the fridge for an hour or more will ensure that the bark sets perfectly and is easy to break into clean pieces.
4. Customizing Your Bark: Feel free to swap out the Reese’s Pieces for other candy or toppings. M&M’s, crushed pretzels, or even dried fruit like cranberries can add a unique twist to your bark.
5. Troubleshooting: If your white chocolate seems to be separating or turning grainy when you melt it, it could be overheating. Try stirring it in smaller intervals, or add a teaspoon of vegetable oil to help smooth it out.

Serving Suggestions

Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter White Chocolate Bark is a treat that stands well on its own, but there are plenty of ways to make it even more delightful. Consider pairing the bark with:

1. A Cup of Hot Chocolate: This bark’s rich peanut butter and chocolate flavor makes it an excellent companion for a warm mug of hot cocoa. The creamy texture and sweetness complement each other perfectly.
2. Fruit: Serve the bark alongside some fresh fruit like strawberries, raspberries, or apple slices. The fresh, tart fruit balances the sweetness of the bark, making it feel a bit more refreshing.
3. Ice Cream: For an indulgent dessert, crumble some bark over a bowl of vanilla or chocolate ice cream. It adds a crunchy texture and enhances the dessert’s flavor.

Engagement Features

This Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter White Chocolate Bark is a recipe that anyone can enjoy making, and it’s even better when shared. If you’re new to baking or if this is one of your first attempts at making bark, don’t be afraid to experiment and make the recipe your own. Have fun with it and don’t stress over getting everything perfect.

We’d love to hear how your batch of bark turned out! Did you make any substitutions or adjustments? Share your experience in the comments below, and let us know what you think of this easy, no-bake treat. If you loved it, feel free to share the recipe with friends and family — this sweet, simple bark is sure to become a favorite!

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a batch of delicious Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter White Chocolate Bark. Happy baking!