Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares: A Deliciously Gooey Treat
Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares are a delightful no-bake dessert that combines the creamy richness of peanut butter with the fluffy sweetness of marshmallows. This recipe is incredibly easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and is perfect for potlucks, parties, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. The combination of textures – the slightly crunchy base, the gooey marshmallow layer, and the smooth peanut butter – creates a truly irresistible treat. Forget complicated baking projects; these squares are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, even for those who aren’t expert bakers.
## Why You’ll Love This Recipe
* **No-Bake:** Say goodbye to heating up your oven! This recipe requires no baking, making it perfect for hot summer days or when you’re short on time.
* **Easy to Make:** With just a few simple steps and ingredients, anyone can make these delicious squares.
* **Kid-Friendly:** Both kids and adults will love the sweet and gooey combination of peanut butter and marshmallows.
* **Customizable:** You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your preferences by adding different mix-ins or toppings.
* **Perfect for Sharing:** These squares are easy to cut and serve, making them ideal for potlucks, parties, or bake sales.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you start, gather all the necessary ingredients. This will ensure a smooth and efficient cooking process.
* **6 cups Rice Krispies cereal:** This provides the base for the squares, adding a light and crispy texture. You can also use other crispy rice cereals if you prefer.
* **1 cup creamy peanut butter:** Use your favorite brand of creamy peanut butter. Avoid using natural peanut butter, as it tends to be oilier and can affect the consistency of the squares. If you only have natural peanut butter on hand, make sure to mix it very well before using it.
* **1 pound (16 ounces) marshmallows:** Use mini or regular-sized marshmallows. Mini marshmallows melt faster and more evenly, but regular marshmallows work just as well. You can even use flavored marshmallows, such as vanilla or strawberry, to add a unique twist.
* **1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter:** The butter adds richness and helps to bind the ingredients together. Make sure the butter is unsalted to control the overall saltiness of the squares.
* **1 teaspoon vanilla extract:** The vanilla extract enhances the flavor of the peanut butter and marshmallows.
## Equipment You’ll Need
* **9×13 inch baking pan:** This is the ideal size for making a batch of peanut butter marshmallow squares. You can also use an 8×8 inch pan for thicker squares.
* **Large saucepan:** This is used to melt the butter and marshmallows.
* **Rubber spatula:** This is perfect for stirring the ingredients and scraping the sides of the saucepan.
* **Measuring cups and spoons:** For accurate measuring of the ingredients.
* **Parchment paper or aluminum foil:** To line the baking pan and prevent the squares from sticking.
## Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these detailed instructions to create the perfect batch of peanut butter marshmallow squares.
**Step 1: Prepare the Pan**
Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving an overhang on the sides. This will make it easier to remove the squares from the pan later. Lightly grease the parchment paper or foil with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
**Step 2: Melt the Butter and Marshmallows**
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once the butter is melted, add the marshmallows and stir constantly until they are completely melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat the marshmallows, as this can make them tough.
**Step 3: Add the Peanut Butter and Vanilla**
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the peanut butter and vanilla extract until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.
**Step 4: Incorporate the Rice Krispies**
Add the Rice Krispies cereal to the saucepan and gently fold them into the marshmallow mixture until they are evenly coated. Be careful not to crush the cereal.
**Step 5: Press into the Pan**
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and use a spatula or your hands (lightly greased) to evenly press it into the pan. Make sure to press firmly to create a compact layer. If the mixture is too sticky, try using a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap to press it down.
**Step 6: Cool and Cut**
Let the squares cool completely at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or until they are firm enough to cut. For faster cooling, you can place the pan in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes.
Once the squares are cooled, lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper or foil overhang. Place them on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut them into squares.
## Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares
* **Use Fresh Marshmallows:** Fresh marshmallows melt more easily and create a smoother texture. If your marshmallows are stale, they may not melt properly.
* **Don’t Overheat the Marshmallows:** Overheating the marshmallows can make them tough and chewy. Melt them over low heat and stir constantly.
* **Use Creamy Peanut Butter:** Creamy peanut butter is essential for creating a smooth and creamy texture. Avoid using natural peanut butter, as it can be too oily.
* **Press Firmly:** Press the mixture firmly into the pan to create a compact layer. This will prevent the squares from falling apart.
* **Cool Completely:** Let the squares cool completely before cutting them. This will make them easier to cut and prevent them from sticking to the knife.
* **Grease Your Hands:** If you’re using your hands to press the mixture into the pan, lightly grease them with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
* **Add Mix-Ins:** Get creative and add your favorite mix-ins, such as chocolate chips, chopped nuts, sprinkles, or pretzels.
* **Store Properly:** Store the squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To prevent them from sticking together, place a sheet of parchment paper between the layers.
## Variations and Add-Ins
One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it can be customized. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
* **Chocolate Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares:** Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the marshmallow mixture for a chocolatey twist. You can also melt chocolate chips and drizzle them over the top of the squares.
* **Nutty Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares:** Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, such as peanuts, walnuts, or pecans, to the marshmallow mixture for added crunch and flavor.
* **Pretzel Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares:** Add 1 cup of crushed pretzels to the Rice Krispies mixture for a salty and crunchy variation.
* **Sprinkle Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares:** Add sprinkles to the marshmallow mixture or sprinkle them on top of the squares for a festive touch.
* **White Chocolate Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares:** Instead of regular chocolate chips, use white chocolate chips for a sweeter and creamier variation.
* **Cookie Butter Marshmallow Squares:** Swap the peanut butter for cookie butter for a completely different flavor profile.
* **Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares:** Drizzle salted caramel sauce over the finished squares for a decadent treat.
* **Espresso Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares:** Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the peanut butter mixture for a coffee-infused flavor.
## Serving Suggestions
Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares are delicious on their own, but here are a few serving suggestions to elevate your experience:
* **Serve with a glass of milk:** The classic combination of peanut butter and milk is always a winner.
* **Top with ice cream:** A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream adds a cool and creamy contrast to the gooey squares.
* **Drizzle with chocolate sauce:** A drizzle of chocolate sauce adds an extra layer of decadence.
* **Serve with fresh fruit:** A side of fresh berries or sliced bananas adds a refreshing element.
* **Cut into bite-sized pieces:** For a party or potluck, cut the squares into smaller bite-sized pieces for easy serving.
## How to Store Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares
To keep your Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares fresh and delicious, store them properly. Here’s how:
* **Airtight Container:** Store the squares in an airtight container at room temperature. This will prevent them from drying out.
* **Parchment Paper:** Place a sheet of parchment paper between the layers of squares to prevent them from sticking together.
* **Room Temperature:** Store the squares at room temperature for up to 3 days. Avoid storing them in the refrigerator, as this can make them hard and chewy.
* **Freezing:** You can freeze Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares for longer storage. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
## Troubleshooting
* **Squares are too hard:** This can happen if you overheat the marshmallows or press the mixture too firmly into the pan. Be sure to melt the marshmallows over low heat and press the mixture gently.
* **Squares are too sticky:** This can happen if you use too much butter or don’t cool the squares completely. Use the recommended amount of butter and let the squares cool completely before cutting them.
* **Squares are falling apart:** This can happen if you don’t press the mixture firmly enough into the pan. Make sure to press the mixture firmly to create a compact layer.
* **Marshmallows are not melting:** This can happen if your marshmallows are stale. Use fresh marshmallows for the best results.
* **Peanut butter is too oily:** This can happen if you use natural peanut butter. Make sure to mix the peanut butter very well before using it, or use creamy peanut butter instead.
## Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares Recipe
Here’s the full recipe for Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares:
**Yields:** 16-24 squares
**Prep time:** 15 minutes
**Cook time:** 5 minutes
**Cooling time:** 30 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
* 1 cup creamy peanut butter
* 1 pound (16 ounces) marshmallows
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
**Equipment:**
* 9×13 inch baking pan
* Large saucepan
* Rubber spatula
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Parchment paper or aluminum foil
**Instructions**
1. Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving an overhang on the sides. Lightly grease the parchment paper or foil with butter or cooking spray.
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once the butter is melted, add the marshmallows and stir constantly until they are completely melted and smooth.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the peanut butter and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Add the Rice Krispies cereal to the saucepan and gently fold them into the marshmallow mixture until they are evenly coated.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and use a spatula or your hands (lightly greased) to evenly press it into the pan.
6. Let the squares cool completely at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or until they are firm enough to cut.
7. Lift the squares out of the pan using the parchment paper or foil overhang. Place them on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut them into squares.
## Nutrition Information (Approximate per square)
* Calories: 200-250
* Fat: 10-15g
* Saturated Fat: 5-8g
* Cholesterol: 15-20mg
* Sodium: 100-150mg
* Carbohydrates: 25-30g
* Sugar: 15-20g
* Protein: 3-5g
*Note: Nutrition information is approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*
## Conclusion
Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares are a quick, easy, and delicious dessert that’s sure to be a hit with everyone. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a batch of these gooey, peanut buttery treats in no time. So, gather your ingredients, follow the instructions, and enjoy the sweet satisfaction of homemade Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares! They’re perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to special celebrations. Happy baking (or rather, no-baking)!