Get ready to indulge in a homemade treat that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. This peanut butter candy bars recipe is a delightful copycat version of the classic Payday candy bar. With its layers of roasted peanuts surrounding a creamy and chewy peanut butter nougat center, every bite of this candy bar is a perfect balance of sweet and salty.
This recipe requires the use of peanut butter baking chips, which are not always a pantry staple. These can be found in the baking aisle of most supermarkets. Also of note is the use of dry roasted peanuts, as their roasted flavor adds a unique touch to the candy bars, and differentiates them from raw or salted peanuts. They can also be found in most supermarkets, often in the snack or nut aisle.
Ingredients for Peanut Butter Candy Bars
Peanut butter baking chips: These are small, melt-able chips that are used in baking. They have a rich, creamy peanut butter flavor.
Sweetened condensed milk: A thick, sweet product that adds a creamy texture and sweetness to the candy bars.
Butter: It adds richness and prevents the candy from sticking to the pan.
Mini marshmallows: They melt into the mixture to provide a chewy texture.
Dry roasted peanuts: These peanuts are roasted without oil, which gives them a deep, intense flavor. They make up the crunchy outer layer of the candy bars.
One reader, Eydie Graber says:
This peanut butter candy bars recipe is a game-changer! The combination of peanut butter, marshmallows, and peanuts is simply divine. The bars are easy to make and taste just like the real deal. I can't get enough of these delicious treats!
Techniques Required
How to butter the pan: Spread butter evenly on the bottom and sides of the 9x13-inch pan to prevent the candy bars from sticking.
How to melt the chips and butter: Place the peanut butter baking chips and butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.
How to pour the mixture evenly over peanuts: Slowly pour the melted mixture over the layer of peanuts in the pan, ensuring it is spread evenly.
How to top with remaining peanuts and press down: Sprinkle the remaining peanuts over the melted mixture and gently press down to ensure they stick to the candy bars.
How to refrigerate to cool and set: Place the pan in the refrigerator and allow the candy bars to cool and set for a few hours before cutting into desired serving sizes.
How To Make Peanut Butter Candy Bars (PayDay Copycat)
These candy bars are a treat for peanut lovers. This 5-ingredient PayDay copycat is loaded with peanuts and has marshmallows and condensed milk too.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 12ozpeanut butter baking chips
- 14ozsweetened condensed milk
- 3tbspbutter
- 2cupmini marshmallows
- 24ozdry roasted peanuts
Instructions
-
Butter the bottom & sides of a 9×13-inch pan and place half of the peanuts in the bottom.
-
Melt the chips and butter over medium-low heat. Add in condensed milk and marshmallows, stirring until melted and combined.
-
Slowly pour mixture evenly over peanuts. Top with remaining peanuts and gently press down. Refrigerate to cool and set.
-
Cut into desired serving size.
Nutrition
- Calories: 649.14kcal
- Fat: 48.25g
- Saturated Fat: 10.13g
- Trans Fat: 0.14g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 22.76g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 12.60g
- Carbohydrates: 40.24g
- Fiber: 6.25g
- Sugar: 28.44g
- Protein: 23.72g
- Cholesterol: 18.88mg
- Sodium: 64.09mg
- Calcium: 161.09mg
- Potassium: 681.89mg
- Iron: 3.17mg
- Vitamin A: 48.76µg
- Vitamin C: 0.86mg
Technique Tip for Making Peanut Butter Candy Bars
To ensure your peanut butter candy bars have a smooth and creamy texture, it's crucial to melt the peanut butter baking chips and butter over medium-low heat. High heat can cause the mixture to seize and become grainy. Also, stirring constantly will help to evenly distribute the heat and prevent the mixture from burning. When adding the sweetened condensed milk and mini marshmallows, continue to stir until they are fully incorporated. This will create a silky, well-blended mixture that will set perfectly when cooled.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Peanut Butter Candy Bars
Plan ahead: Before starting the recipe, gather all the ingredients and equipment needed to streamline the cooking process.
Use pre-measured ingredients: Measure out all the ingredients beforehand to avoid stopping and measuring during the cooking process.
Organize your workspace: Keep your kitchen tidy and organized to save time searching for tools and ingredients.
Follow the recipe: Stick to the recipe to ensure efficient and accurate cooking without the need for adjustments.
Multi-task: When possible, work on multiple components of the recipe simultaneously to save time.
Clean as you go: Wash dishes and clean up spills while cooking to minimize post-cooking cleanup time.
Use kitchen tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets like food processors or mixers to speed up the preparation process.
Prep in advance: Prepare certain components of the recipe, such as chopping vegetables or toasting nuts, ahead of time to save time during the actual cooking process.
Substitute Ingredients For Peanut Butter Candy Bars Recipe (PayDay Copycat)
peanut butter baking chips - Substitute with chocolate chips: Chocolate chips can provide a similar creamy texture and a rich flavor to the candy bars.
sweetened condensed milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk can add a creamy sweetness similar to condensed milk and also provides a hint of coconut flavor.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative and adds a subtle coconut flavor to the candy bars.
mini marshmallows - Substitute with chopped dates: Chopped dates can provide a natural sweetness and a chewy texture similar to marshmallows.
dry roasted peanuts - Substitute with almonds: Almonds can offer a similar crunch and nutty flavor to the candy bars.
Presenting Your Homemade Payday Copycat Candy Bars
Elevate the plating: When presenting the peanut butter candy bars, pay attention to the visual appeal. Arrange the bars in a neat and elegant manner, ensuring that each component is visible and inviting.
Garnish with finesse: Add a touch of sophistication to the dish by garnishing with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. This will enhance the overall presentation and add a hint of luxury to the dessert.
Incorporate texture contrast: Introduce a contrasting element such as a delicate tuile or a shard of caramel to provide a textural contrast to the creamy and nutty components of the candy bars.
Utilize high-quality serving ware: Choose elegant and refined serving ware that complements the upscale nature of the dish. Opt for sleek, modern plates or platters to showcase the candy bars beautifully.
Attention to detail: Pay close attention to the finer details of the presentation, ensuring that each bar is meticulously arranged and any excess crumbs or smudges are carefully removed from the plate.
Artful drizzling: Create an artful drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce on the plate, using a delicate hand to add a touch of finesse to the presentation.
Balance and symmetry: Strive for balance and symmetry in the plating, ensuring that each element is thoughtfully placed to create a visually appealing composition.
Elevate with edible flowers: Consider adorning the plate with a few edible flowers, such as microgreens or pansies, to introduce a pop of color and an element of natural beauty to the presentation.
Precision in portioning: Pay careful attention to portion sizes, ensuring that each candy bar is cut with precision and presented in a uniform manner to showcase attention to detail.
Use of negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate, allowing the candy bars to be the focal point while creating an overall sense of elegance and refinement in the presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Peanut Butter Candy Bars
- 9x13-inch pan: A baking pan used for making the candy bars.
- Stovetop: Used for melting the peanut butter chips, butter, and other ingredients.
- Spatula: To evenly spread the mixture over the peanuts in the pan.
- Refrigerator: Used to cool and set the candy bars.
- Knife: To cut the candy bars into the desired serving size.
How To Store and Freeze Peanut Butter Candy Bars
Let the peanut butter candy bars cool completely before storing or freezing. This will help them set properly and prevent them from becoming too soft or sticky.
To store the candy bars, place them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Separate the layers with wax paper or parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together. Store the container in a cool, dry place, such as the pantry or cupboard, for up to 1 week.
If you prefer a firmer texture, you can store the candy bars in the refrigerator. Place them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag, separating the layers with wax paper or parchment paper. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
For longer storage, you can freeze the peanut butter candy bars. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Label the container with the date and contents. Frozen candy bars will maintain their quality for up to 3 months.
To thaw frozen peanut butter candy bars, transfer them from the freezer to the refrigerator and let them thaw overnight. Alternatively, you can let them thaw at room temperature for a few hours. Once thawed, consume the candy bars within a week for the best texture and flavor.
If the candy bars become too soft or sticky after storing, you can place them in the refrigerator for a short time to firm up before serving.
Random Fact about Peanut Butter Candy Bars
The Payday candy bar was first introduced in 1932 and has been a popular treat ever since.
Is Making Peanut Butter Candy Bars at Home Economical?
The cost-effectiveness of this peanut butter candy bars recipe largely depends on the availability and price of the ingredients. Peanuts and sweetened condensed milk are generally affordable, while peanut butter baking chips can be pricier. Considering the yield and the satisfaction it brings, this recipe can be rated 8/10. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20, making it a reasonable treat for the family.
Are Peanut Butter Candy Bars Healthy or Unhealthy?
This peanut butter candy bar recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main ingredients - peanut butter chips, sweetened condensed milk, marshmallows, and dry roasted peanuts - are all high in sugar, fat, and calories. The peanuts do provide some protein and healthy fats, but the overall nutritional value is overshadowed by the excessive sugar and saturated fat content. Consuming these candy bars regularly could contribute to weight gain, increased risk of heart disease, and other health issues.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Replace the peanut butter chips with natural, unsweetened peanut butter to reduce the sugar content
- Use a lower fat condensed milk or a plant-based alternative to decrease the saturated fat
- Reduce the amount of marshmallows or omit them entirely to further cut down on sugar
- Incorporate more wholesome ingredients, such as rolled oats, to increase the fiber content and provide a more satisfying texture
- Cut the candy bars into smaller portions to encourage mindful eating and portion control
Editor's Opinion on This Payday Copycat Recipe
This recipe for peanut butter candy bars is a delightful treat that captures the essence of a classic Payday candy bar. The combination of peanut butter baking chips, sweetened condensed milk, and dry roasted peanuts creates a rich and satisfying flavor. The addition of mini marshmallows adds a delightful chewiness, while the butter provides a smooth and creamy texture. The process of layering the ingredients in a 9x13-inch pan allows for easy assembly, resulting in a delicious and indulgent dessert. Whether enjoyed as a snack or dessert, these candy bars are sure to be a hit with peanut butter lovers.
Enhance Your Peanut Butter Candy Bars Recipe (PayDay Copycat) with These Unique Side Dishes:
Alternative Recipes Similar to Payday Copycat Candy Bars
Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with This Payday Copycat Recipe
Why trust this Peanut Butter Candy Bars Recipe (PayDay Copycat):
This recipe uses high-quality ingredients, including peanut butter baking chips, sweetened condensed milk, and dry roasted peanuts. The combination of these ingredients creates a delicious and satisfying candy bar that is reminiscent of the popular Payday candy bar. The use of mini marshmallows adds a delightful texture, and the careful layering of the ingredients ensures a perfect balance of flavors and textures in every bite. Trust the expertise behind this recipe to deliver a delightful treat that will surely satisfy your sweet cravings.
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