Name: Peanut Butter Confetti Squares Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Cooking spray; 2 cups butterscotch chips; 1 cup peanut butter; 4 tbsp butter; 1 tsp pure vanilla extract; 10 oz mini rainbow marshmallows

Imagine biting into a vibrant square of chewy sweetness that explodes with the nutty creaminess of peanut butter and the nostalgic allure of butterscotch. Our Peanut Butter Confetti Squares are just that! This simple dessert is not only delightful and mouth-watering, but it's also incredibly easy to make. Perfect for a quick treat or a colorful party dessert.

Photos of Peanut Butter Confetti Squares Recipe

The main ingredients of this recipe are butterscotch chips, peanut butter, and mini rainbow marshmallows. Don't fret if these aren't commonly found in your pantry as they can be easily located in the baking or candy aisle of most supermarkets. Butterscotch chips and rainbow marshmallows, in particular, might not be regular items on your shopping list. So these would be the ones to note down.

Ingredients for Peanut Butter Confetti Squares

Butterscotch chips: These add a rich, sweet, and buttery flavor that pairs beautifully with the peanut butter.

Peanut butter: This adds a creamy, nutty taste to the dish, and acts as a binding agent for the squares.

Butter: This adds richness and helps to smooth out the texture of the squares.

Vanilla extract: This enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Mini rainbow marshmallows: These add a fun, colorful element to the squares, as well as a sweet, gooey texture.

One reader, Hermione Paquette says:

This peanut butter confetti squares recipe is a game-changer! The combination of butterscotch, peanut butter, and marshmallows creates a delightful treat that's perfect for any occasion. The recipe is easy to follow, and the end result is a delicious, colorful, and irresistible treat that everyone will love. Highly recommended!

Hermione Paquette

Techniques Required for Making Peanut Butter Confetti Squares

How to melt butterscotch chips, peanut butter, and butter: In a medium pot on medium heat, whisk together the butterscotch chips, peanut butter, and butter for 2 minutes until smooth.

How to fold in marshmallows: After the mixture has cooled for 15 minutes, fold in ¾ of the marshmallows gently to avoid crushing them.

How to press marshmallows into the mixture: Sprinkle the remaining marshmallows on top of the mixture and press them into the mixture to adhere them.

How to chill the squares: Place the baking pan into the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before cutting into 12 pieces and serving.

How To Make Peanut Butter Confetti Squares

These confetti squares will certainly be a head turner in birthday parties. Enjoy the peanut butter fudge that provides sweetness and richness.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 5 minutes

Total: 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

cooking spray
2cupsbutterscotch chips
1cuppeanut butter
4tbspbutter
1tsppure vanilla extract
10ozmini rainbow marshmallows

Instructions

Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a medium pot on medium heat, whisk together the butterscotch chips, peanut butter and butter for 2 minutes until smooth.
Turn off the heat, whisk in the vanilla extract and let cool for 15 minutes.
Fold in ¾ of the marshmallows and pour into the baking pan, then sprinkle the remaining marshmallows on top and press them into the mixture to adhere them.
Place the baking pan into the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before cutting into 12 pieces and serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 247.60kcal
Fat: 15.50g
Saturated Fat: 4.72g
Trans Fat: 0.17g
Monounsaturated Fat: 6.94g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.01g
Carbohydrates: 24.99g
Fiber: 1.10g
Sugar: 16.61g
Protein: 5.24g
Cholesterol: 10.26mg
Sodium: 26.97mg
Calcium: 12.45mg
Potassium: 122.83mg
Iron: 0.43mg
Vitamin A: 32.62µg

Technique Tip for Perfect Peanut Butter Confetti Squares

To ensure your peanut butter confetti squares have a smooth and creamy texture, make sure to constantly whisk the butterscotch chips, peanut butter, and butter together on medium heat. This will prevent the mixture from burning and will help the ingredients to blend together seamlessly. Additionally, allowing the mixture to cool before adding the marshmallows will prevent them from melting too much, maintaining their shape and texture in the final product.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Peanut Butter Confetti Squares Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare the ingredients and measure them out in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Use kitchen tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets such as food processors and stand mixers to speed up the preparation process.

Organize your workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and clean as you cook to avoid wasting time searching for utensils or ingredients.

Follow the recipe: Read through the entire recipe before starting to ensure you understand the steps and can work efficiently.

Multi-task: When possible, work on multiple components of the recipe simultaneously to save time.

Substitute Ingredients For Peanut Butter Confetti Squares Recipe

butterscotch chips - Substitute with white chocolate chips: White chocolate chips can provide a sweet and creamy flavor similar to butterscotch, adding a delicious richness to the recipe.
peanut butter - Substitute with almond butter: Almond butter has a similar creamy texture and nutty flavor, providing a delicious alternative for those with peanut allergies or looking for a different taste profile.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative to butter, providing a subtle coconut flavor and a similar fat content for binding the ingredients together.
mini rainbow marshmallows - Substitute with chopped dried fruit: Chopped dried fruit, such as apricots, cranberries, or pineapple, can add a burst of sweetness and chewy texture similar to mini marshmallows, while also providing a natural and colorful touch to the squares.

Best Way to Present Peanut Butter Confetti Squares

Elevate the presentation with garnishes: Add a touch of elegance to the confetti squares by garnishing with edible flowers, gold leaf, or finely chopped nuts for a sophisticated and visually appealing finish.
Incorporate artistic plating: Arrange the confetti squares on a sleek, modern plate using geometric patterns or asymmetrical designs to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the dessert.
Utilize elegant serving ware: Present the confetti squares on a beautiful, handcrafted ceramic platter or a sleek, minimalist dessert stand to elevate the overall dining experience and create a lasting impression.
Create a stunning contrast: Pair the confetti squares with a drizzle of rich, dark chocolate sauce or a dollop of whipped cream to create a striking contrast and enhance the visual appeal of the dessert.
Highlight the vibrant colors: Showcase the colorful array of marshmallows by arranging the squares on a pristine white plate, allowing the bright hues to pop and captivate the senses.
Emphasize precision in plating: Pay attention to the placement of each square, ensuring uniformity and precision in presentation to demonstrate a high level of culinary skill and attention to detail.
Incorporate a touch of nostalgia: Serve the confetti squares on vintage-inspired dessert plates or in charming, retro-style glassware to evoke a sense of nostalgia and whimsy, adding an element of storytelling to the presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Peanut Butter Confetti Squares

Cooking spray: Used to prevent food from sticking to pans and dishes during cooking or baking.
Medium pot: A versatile cooking vessel used for boiling, simmering, and stewing ingredients.
Whisk: A kitchen tool used for blending, mixing, and incorporating air into ingredients.
8x8-inch baking pan: A square baking dish used for making brownies, bars, and other baked goods.
Parchment paper: A non-stick paper used to line baking sheets and pans, preventing food from sticking.
Refrigerator: A cooling appliance used to store and chill food at low temperatures.

Storing and Freezing Peanut Butter Confetti Squares

Let the peanut butter confetti squares cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
To freeze the squares, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label the bag or container with the date and contents.
Frozen peanut butter confetti squares can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, remove the desired number of squares from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour before serving.
If you prefer a firmer texture, you can enjoy the frozen squares straight out of the freezer. They make a delightful cold treat on a hot day!
To prevent the squares from sticking together when storing or freezing, place a piece of parchment paper or wax paper between each layer.

Random Fact About Peanut Butter Confetti Squares

Butterscotch chips are a versatile ingredient and can be used in a variety of recipes, including cookies, bars, and cakes. They add a rich, caramel-like flavor to desserts and are a popular choice for adding a touch of sweetness to baked goods.

Is Making Peanut Butter Confetti Squares at Home Economical?

This peanut butter confetti squares recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as butterscotch chips, peanut butter, and marshmallows, are generally affordable and readily available. The recipe yields a delicious and satisfying treat, making it a worthwhile investment. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its simplicity, taste, and affordability. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$15, making it a budget-friendly dessert option.

Are Peanut Butter Confetti Squares Healthy or Unhealthy?

This peanut butter confetti squares recipe is a delightful treat, but it's not the healthiest option out there. The main ingredients, such as butterscotch chips, peanut butter, and marshmallows, are high in sugar and fat. While peanut butter does provide some protein and healthy fats, the overall nutritional value of this dessert is quite low. The recipe also lacks any fruits, vegetables, or whole grains, which could help balance out the indulgence.

To make this recipe a bit healthier without sacrificing too much taste, try these suggestions:

Swap out half of the butterscotch chips for dark chocolate chips, which are lower in sugar and offer some antioxidants
Use natural peanut butter instead of regular to avoid added sugars and oils
Reduce the amount of marshmallows used, or replace them with a mix of dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, and chopped apricots for added fiber and nutrients
Incorporate some rolled oats or crushed whole-grain cereal into the mixture for a boost of fiber and texture
Cut the squares into smaller portions to encourage mindful indulgence

Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Treat

This peanut butter confetti squares recipe is a delightful and nostalgic treat. The combination of butterscotch, peanut butter, and marshmallows creates a rich and creamy base, while the addition of mini rainbow marshmallows adds a fun and colorful twist. The process is simple and the result is a delicious and visually appealing dessert that will surely be a hit with both kids and adults. It's a perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors, making it a wonderful addition to any gathering or as a special treat for yourself.

Enhance Your Peanut Butter Confetti Squares Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Fruit Salad: Create a refreshing fruit salad with a mix of seasonal fruits like strawberries, kiwi, and pineapple. Drizzle with a honey-lime dressing for a burst of flavor.

Grilled Vegetables: Grill up a colorful medley of vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant. Season with a balsamic glaze for a smoky and tangy kick.

Chocolate Fondue: Indulge in a decadent chocolate fondue with an assortment of dippable treats like strawberries, banana slices, and pound cake. Perfect for a sweet ending to your meal.

Delicious Alternatives to Peanut Butter Confetti Squares

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This creamy tomato basil soup is the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in. The combination of fresh tomatoes, basil, and cream creates a rich and flavorful soup that will warm you up from the inside out.

Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon: This honey garlic glazed salmon is a delicious and healthy meal option. The sweet and savory glaze pairs perfectly with the tender and flaky salmon, creating a dish that is sure to impress.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: This mango coconut chia pudding is a refreshing and nutritious dessert option. The combination of sweet mango, creamy coconut milk, and healthy chia seeds creates a satisfying treat that you can feel good about indulging in.

Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with Peanut Butter Confetti Squares Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory and indulgent stuffed mushrooms. Filled with a rich and creamy mixture, these bite-sized appetizers are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: This classic appetizer is always a crowd-pleaser. The creamy, cheesy dip is packed with flavor and pairs perfectly with crispy bread or crunchy vegetables. It's the ultimate comfort food for any occasion.

Main Courses:

Grilled Salmon: Impress your guests with a perfectly grilled salmon fillet, served with a zesty lemon dill sauce and a side of roasted vegetables. The combination of flavors and textures will leave everyone satisfied and coming back for more.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Elevate your dinner with these delicious stuffed bell peppers, filled with a savory mixture of ground turkey, quinoa, and a variety of colorful vegetables. Top them off with melted cheese for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Why trust this Peanut Butter Confetti Squares Recipe:

This recipe is a trusted classic, using butterscotch chips and peanut butter to create a rich and indulgent treat. The combination of creamy peanut butter and butterscotch chips adds a unique and delightful flavor profile. The addition of mini rainbow marshmallows brings a pop of color and a playful texture. With a simple and straightforward preparation method, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. The use of pure vanilla extract enhances the overall taste, ensuring a delightful and satisfying experience.

Want to share your experience making these Peanut Butter Confetti Squares or discuss variations on the recipe? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of chips instead of butterscotch chips?

Yes, you can substitute butterscotch chips with chocolate chips or white chocolate chips for a different flavor.

Can I use regular-sized marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?

Yes, you can use regular-sized marshmallows, but I recommend cutting them into smaller pieces to ensure they mix well with the other ingredients.

Can I use natural peanut butter instead of regular peanut butter?

Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but keep in mind that it may alter the texture slightly. Natural peanut butter tends to be runnier, so the mixture may not set as firmly.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to the confetti squares?

Absolutely! You can add chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or even mini chocolate chips to customize the confetti squares to your liking.

How long do the confetti squares last, and how should I store them?

The confetti squares can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.