Chewy Peanut Butter Squares
Chewy peanut butter squares are rich, sweet, and nutty treats with a dense texture, perfect for snack time or satisfying dessert cravings, suitable for all peanut butter lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream shortening, peanut butter, brown sugar, and sugar until smooth.
- Add vanilla and eggs; mix well.
- Add flour and coconut; mix until combined and batter is stiff.
- Pour batter into a greased 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan, spreading evenly.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 22 minutes.
- Allow to cool before cutting into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsweetened natural peanut butter. You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier texture or to make it slightly healthier. If you want to add a twist, mix in a handful of chocolate chips or nuts. Make sure to let the squares cool completely before cutting to avoid crumbling.
Serving Suggestions
These chewy peanut butter squares are perfect for a snack or dessert. Serve them alongside a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee. They also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat. For a complete meal, consider serving them after a hearty dish like Super Chuck Roast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, warm in the microwave for a few seconds or enjoy them cold straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chewy Peanut Butter Squares contains roughly 344 calories, with 5g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of calcium (11% of the Daily Value), protein (10% of the Daily Value), and iron (10% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of nut butter?
Yes, you can substitute peanut butter with almond butter or cashew butter if you prefer a different flavor. Keep in mind that this may slightly change the texture and taste but will still yield delicious results.
How do I make these squares gluten-free?
To make gluten-free chewy peanut butter squares, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that all other ingredients, especially the baking powder, are also gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the recipe.
What can I add to enhance the flavor?
You can enhance these squares by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or incorporating dried fruits like raisins or cranberries. A sprinkle of sea salt on top right before baking can also elevate the flavor profile and balance the sweetness.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).