Payday bars, those delightfully salty-sweet concoctions of peanuts and caramel, hold a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of candy lovers everywhere. But what if you could elevate this classic treat beyond the wrapper? This blog post is dedicated to exploring the delectable world of Payday bar-inspired recipes, offering innovative and exciting ways to enjoy that iconic flavor combination. Get ready to unleash your inner chef and transform your kitchen into a peanut-caramel paradise!
**Why Payday Bars Are So Irresistible**
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s take a moment to appreciate what makes Payday bars so unique and addictive. The magic lies in the perfect balance of flavors and textures:
* **Saltiness:** The abundance of roasted peanuts provides a satisfying salty crunch that cuts through the sweetness.
* **Sweetness:** The chewy caramel creates a smooth, rich sweetness that complements the peanuts perfectly.
* **Texture:** The combination of crunchy peanuts and chewy caramel offers a delightful textural contrast in every bite.
These three elements work together in perfect harmony to create a truly unforgettable candy experience. Now, let’s see how we can recreate and enhance this experience in our own kitchens.
**Recipe 1: Homemade Payday Bars (From Scratch!)**
This recipe is for the purists who want to recreate the classic Payday bar from scratch. While it requires a bit more effort, the result is a truly authentic and satisfying treat.
**Ingredients:**
* **For the Caramel:**
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 1/4 cup water
* 1/4 cup light corn syrup
* 1/2 cup heavy cream
* 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* **For the Peanuts:**
* 2 cups roasted peanuts, unsalted
* **Equipment:**
* 9×13 inch baking pan
* Parchment paper
* Candy thermometer (optional but recommended)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Pan:** Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This will make it easier to remove the bars later.
2. **Roast the Peanuts (If Necessary):** If your peanuts aren’t already roasted, spread them on a baking sheet and roast in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden and fragrant. Let them cool slightly.
3. **Make the Caramel:** In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, water, and corn syrup. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
4. **Cook the Caramel to Amber Color:** Once the sugar is dissolved, stop stirring and let the mixture cook undisturbed until it turns an amber color. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature. It should reach around 300°F (149°C).
5. **Carefully Add Cream and Butter:** Remove the saucepan from the heat and carefully whisk in the heavy cream and butter. The mixture will bubble up rapidly, so be cautious. Continue whisking until the butter is melted and the caramel is smooth.
6. **Cook to Soft Ball Stage (Optional):** For a chewier caramel, return the saucepan to medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the caramel reaches the soft ball stage (235-240°F or 113-116°C on a candy thermometer). If you don’t have a thermometer, test a small drop of caramel in a bowl of cold water. It should form a soft, pliable ball.
7. **Stir in Salt and Vanilla:** Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the salt and vanilla extract.
8. **Assemble the Bars:** Pour the caramel into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
9. **Press in the Peanuts:** Immediately sprinkle the roasted peanuts over the caramel, pressing them gently into the surface to adhere. Make sure the peanuts are evenly distributed.
10. **Chill and Cut:** Let the bars cool completely at room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to firm up. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut them into desired sizes using a sharp knife. You might need to run the knife under hot water between cuts for easier slicing.
11. **Enjoy!** Store the homemade Payday bars in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
**Tips for Perfect Homemade Payday Bars:**
* **Use a Candy Thermometer:** A candy thermometer is your best friend when making caramel. It ensures that the caramel reaches the correct temperature for the desired consistency.
* **Be Careful with Hot Caramel:** Hot caramel can cause severe burns, so handle it with caution. Use oven mitts and avoid splattering.
* **Roast the Peanuts Properly:** Roasted peanuts provide the best flavor and texture. Make sure they are lightly golden and fragrant, but not burnt.
* **Chill Completely:** Chilling the bars completely before cutting makes them easier to slice and prevents the caramel from sticking to the knife.
**Recipe 2: Payday Bar Rice Krispie Treats**
This recipe is a fun and easy twist on the classic Rice Krispie treat, incorporating the flavors of a Payday bar. It’s a great option for a quick and satisfying dessert that kids and adults will love.
**Ingredients:**
* 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
* 10 ounces marshmallows
* 1/4 cup butter
* 1 cup salted peanuts, roughly chopped
* 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional, adjust to taste depending on peanut saltiness)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Pan:** Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. **Melt Butter and Marshmallows:** In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the marshmallows and stir constantly until completely melted and smooth.
3. **Remove from Heat:** Remove the saucepan from the heat.
4. **Stir in Rice Krispies and Peanuts:** Add the Rice Krispies cereal and chopped peanuts to the melted marshmallow mixture. Stir until well combined and the cereal is evenly coated.
5. **Press into Pan:** Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and press it down firmly and evenly. You can use a piece of wax paper or plastic wrap to prevent sticking.
6. **Cool and Cut:** Let the treats cool completely before cutting them into squares.
7. **Enjoy!** Store the Rice Krispie treats in an airtight container at room temperature.
**Tips for Payday Bar Rice Krispie Treats:**
* **Use Fresh Marshmallows:** Fresh marshmallows melt more easily and create a smoother texture.
* **Don’t Overcook the Marshmallows:** Overcooked marshmallows can become hard and brittle. Cook them until they are just melted and smooth.
* **Add Salt to Taste:** Adjust the amount of salt to your liking, depending on the saltiness of the peanuts.
* **Press Firmly:** Pressing the mixture firmly into the pan will help the treats hold together.
**Recipe 3: Payday Bar Cookies**
These cookies combine the salty-sweet flavors of Payday bars with the comforting texture of a classic cookie. They’re perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth with a unique twist.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 3/4 cup granulated sugar
* 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup roughly chopped Payday bars (about 3-4 bars)
* 1 cup salted peanuts, roughly chopped
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Cream Butter and Sugars:** In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. **Beat in Eggs and Vanilla:** Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. **Gradually Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. **Stir in Payday Bars and Peanuts:** Stir in the chopped Payday bars and peanuts.
7. **Drop by Rounded Tablespoons onto Baking Sheets:** Drop by rounded tablespoons onto ungreased baking sheets.
8. **Bake:** Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
9. **Cool on Baking Sheets:** Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. **Enjoy!** Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
**Tips for Payday Bar Cookies:**
* **Use Softened Butter:** Softened butter creams more easily and creates a smoother dough.
* **Don’t Overmix the Dough:** Overmixing the dough can result in tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
* **Chill the Dough (Optional):** Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can help prevent the cookies from spreading too much.
* **Don’t Overbake:** Overbaked cookies will be dry and crumbly. Bake until the edges are golden brown.
**Recipe 4: Payday Bar Bark**
This no-bake recipe is incredibly easy and quick to make, perfect for a last-minute treat or a fun project with kids. It’s a simple way to enjoy the Payday bar flavor in a different format.
**Ingredients:**
* 12 ounces chocolate chips (milk, dark, or semi-sweet)
* 1 cup salted peanuts, roughly chopped
* 4-5 Payday bars, coarsely chopped
* Optional: Sea salt flakes for sprinkling
**Instructions:**
1. **Line Baking Sheet:** Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. **Melt Chocolate:** Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
3. **Spread Chocolate:** Pour the melted chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it evenly into a thin layer.
4. **Sprinkle with Peanuts and Payday Bars:** Immediately sprinkle the chopped peanuts and Payday bars over the melted chocolate, pressing them lightly into the surface.
5. **Add Sea Salt (Optional):** If desired, sprinkle with sea salt flakes.
6. **Chill:** Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm.
7. **Break into Pieces:** Break the bark into pieces and enjoy!
**Tips for Payday Bar Bark:**
* **Use Good Quality Chocolate:** Good quality chocolate will melt more smoothly and taste better.
* **Don’t Overheat the Chocolate:** Overheated chocolate can seize up and become grainy.
* **Work Quickly:** Work quickly while the chocolate is still melted to ensure that the toppings adhere properly.
* **Store in the Refrigerator:** Store the bark in the refrigerator to prevent the chocolate from melting.
**Recipe 5: Payday Bar Blondies**
Blondies are a delicious, chewy alternative to brownies, and these Payday bar blondies are loaded with peanut and caramel flavor. They’re a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
* 1 3/4 cups packed brown sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup roughly chopped Payday bars (about 3-4 bars)
* 1/2 cup salted peanuts, roughly chopped
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Grease and Flour Pan:** Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
3. **Combine Melted Butter and Brown Sugar:** In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and brown sugar. Mix well.
4. **Beat in Eggs and Vanilla:** Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
5. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
6. **Gradually Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
7. **Stir in Payday Bars and Peanuts:** Stir in the chopped Payday bars and peanuts.
8. **Pour into Pan:** Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
9. **Bake:** Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
10. **Cool Completely:** Let the blondies cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares.
11. **Enjoy!** Store the blondies in an airtight container at room temperature.
**Tips for Payday Bar Blondies:**
* **Don’t Overbake:** Overbaking the blondies will make them dry and crumbly. Bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
* **Let Cool Completely:** Letting the blondies cool completely before cutting them will make them easier to slice.
* **Add a Caramel Drizzle (Optional):** Drizzle melted caramel over the cooled blondies for an extra touch of sweetness.
**Recipe 6: Payday Bar Ice Cream**
This recipe lets you enjoy the classic Payday taste in a cool and creamy dessert. Homemade ice cream with bits of Payday bar throughout is a winner in any weather.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups heavy cream
* 1 cup whole milk
* 3/4 cup granulated sugar
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 4-5 Payday bars, chopped into small pieces
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Cream, Milk, Sugar, and Salt:** In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt.
2. **Heat and Stir:** Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is warm but not boiling.
3. **Remove from Heat and Add Vanilla:** Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. **Chill the Mixture:** Pour the mixture into a container, cover, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
5. **Churn the Ice Cream:** Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
6. **Add Payday Bar Pieces:** During the last few minutes of churning, add the chopped Payday bars.
7. **Transfer to Container and Freeze:** Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours to harden further.
8. **Enjoy!**
**Tips for Payday Bar Ice Cream:**
* **Chill the Mixture Thoroughly:** Chilling the mixture thoroughly before churning will result in a smoother ice cream.
* **Don’t Overfill the Ice Cream Maker:** Overfilling the ice cream maker can prevent the ice cream from churning properly.
* **Adjust Payday Bar Pieces to Taste:** Add more or less Payday bar pieces depending on your preference.
**Recipe 7: Payday Bar Milkshake**
This milkshake is a quick and easy way to satisfy your Payday cravings. It’s a creamy, decadent treat that’s perfect for a hot day.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups vanilla ice cream
* 1/2 cup milk
* 2 Payday bars, coarsely chopped
* Optional: Whipped cream and extra chopped Payday bars for topping
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a blender, combine the vanilla ice cream, milk, and chopped Payday bars.
2. **Blend Until Smooth:** Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. **Pour into Glass:** Pour the milkshake into a glass.
4. **Top with Whipped Cream and Payday Bars (Optional):** Top with whipped cream and extra chopped Payday bars, if desired.
5. **Enjoy!**
**Tips for Payday Bar Milkshake:**
* **Use High-Quality Ice Cream:** High-quality ice cream will result in a richer, creamier milkshake.
* **Adjust Milk to Desired Consistency:** Adjust the amount of milk to achieve your desired consistency.
* **Chill the Glass:** Chilling the glass before pouring in the milkshake will help keep it cold.
**Beyond the Recipes: Variations and Ideas**
These recipes are just a starting point. Feel free to experiment and create your own unique Payday bar-inspired treats. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
* **Payday Bar Brownies:** Add chopped Payday bars to your favorite brownie recipe.
* **Payday Bar Cake:** Incorporate Payday bars into a cake batter or use them as a topping.
* **Payday Bar Parfaits:** Layer yogurt, granola, and chopped Payday bars for a healthy and delicious snack.
* **Payday Bar Popcorn:** Toss freshly popped popcorn with melted butter, caramel, and chopped Payday bars.
* **Payday Bar Trail Mix:** Add chopped Payday bars to your favorite trail mix for a sweet and salty boost.
**Conclusion: A Sweet and Salty Adventure**
From homemade bars to ice cream and beyond, the possibilities for Payday bar-inspired recipes are endless. Embrace the salty-sweet combination and let your creativity shine in the kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice cook, there’s a recipe here for you to enjoy. So, grab a Payday bar for inspiration, gather your ingredients, and get ready for a delicious adventure!