01 -
Coat a 9x13-inch glass baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
02 -
Place 2 whole graham cracker sheets in a resealable plastic bag and crush into fine crumbs using a meat mallet or the bottom of a sturdy glass. Set aside.
03 -
In a large mixing bowl, combine creamy peanut butter, softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until smooth. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar while stirring continuously until a cohesive and thick filling forms.
04 -
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and vegetable shortening. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each segment, until chocolate is completely melted and glossy. Avoid overheating.
05 -
Arrange 6 whole graham cracker sheets in the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create an even layer.
06 -
Spread approximately one third of the melted chocolate mixture evenly over the graham crackers.
07 -
Take portions of the peanut butter mixture and flatten with clean hands. Arrange the filling gently on top of the chocolate, covering as much surface as possible without breaking the graham crackers below. Use all of the filling.
08 -
Pour another one third of the melted chocolate evenly over the peanut butter filling. Top with the remaining 6 whole graham cracker sheets in a single layer.
09 -
Spread the remaining melted chocolate over the top graham cracker layer. Sprinkle reserved graham cracker crumbs evenly across the surface.
10 -
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set. Once firm, slice into squares of desired size before serving.