Chocolate-Peanut Butter Candy Squares
Decadent chocolate-peanut butter candy squares combine rich chocolate with creamy peanut butter, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and ideal for parties or as a homemade treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt 2 sticks of margarine in a saucepan.
- Add peanut butter, confectioners sugar, and crushed graham crackers; mix well until combined.
- Press the mixture into a 9-inch or larger pan evenly.
- Melt the remaining stick of margarine with the chocolate chips in a separate saucepan.
- Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the peanut butter layer and spread evenly.
- Refrigerate until the topping is hardened, about 1-2 hours.
- Cut into 1-inch squares and keep refrigerated until serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using natural peanut butter instead of processed. If you're in a pinch, margarine can be substituted with unsalted butter. Ensure the chocolate chips are melted gently to prevent burning; a double boiler works well. You can also try adding a pinch of sea salt on top for a sweet-salty combination that pairs beautifully with Easy Cheese Cake Pie.
Serving Suggestions
These candy squares are delightful on their own but can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzled with caramel sauce for extra indulgence. They also make a great addition to dessert platters and pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk. Consider serving them alongside Graham Cracker Salad for a fun dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store the chocolate-peanut butter candy squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They can also be frozen for longer storage; just ensure they are well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving to maintain texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate-Peanut Butter Candy Squares contains roughly 655 calories, with 11g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 56g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 486mg per serving (21% 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 chocolate for the topping?
Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips based on your preference. If you want a richer flavor, dark chocolate is a great choice. Just keep in mind that this will alter the sweetness of the final product, so adjust sugar levels if necessary.
How can I make these squares gluten-free?
To make gluten-free candy squares, simply replace the graham crackers with gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or crushed gluten-free cookies. Many brands offer gluten-free options that will work perfectly in this recipe, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this treat.
What should I do if my mixture is too crumbly?
If your mixture is too crumbly, it may need a bit more melted margarine or peanut butter to achieve the right consistency. Gradually add a tablespoon of melted margarine until it holds together better. Make sure to mix thoroughly to incorporate the added moisture evenly.
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).