Hollywood Squares
Hollywood Squares are delicious no-bake treats featuring a rich peanut butter base topped with a smooth chocolate layer. Perfect for satisfying sweet cravings, these squares are ideal for parties, potlucks, or casual gatherings. Their combination of creamy, chocolaty, and crunchy textures makes them a crowd favorite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine margarine, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, and peanut butter; mix well.
- Press the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch pan that has been sprayed with Pam.
- Chill until the mixture is firm.
- Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- Spread the melted chocolate over the peanut butter mixture.
- Chill until the chocolate layer is firm.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using natural peanut butter instead of regular varieties. If you want to cut back on sweetness, reduce the powdered sugar by a 1/4 cup. To enhance the chocolate flavor, try adding a pinch of sea salt to the melted chocolate before spreading it over the peanut butter layer. This recipe is similar in indulgence to a Reese'S Peanut Butter Cup.
Serving Suggestions
These squares are perfect as a standalone dessert or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a festive touch, consider serving them alongside a slice of New York Style Cheesecake for a delightful dessert platter. A drizzle of caramel sauce on top can also elevate the presentation and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To reheat, simply let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving to soften slightly, as the chocolate can become quite firm when chilled.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hollywood Squares contains roughly 267 calories, with 6g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% 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 almond butter or cashew butter for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the texture and taste will vary slightly depending on the nut butter used, but it should still work well with the other ingredients.
Is it necessary to chill the mixture?
Chilling the mixture is essential to firming it up, making it easier to cut into squares. If you skip this step, the bars may be too soft and messy to serve. Aim for at least 1-2 hours in the fridge for optimal results.
Can I add toppings to the chocolate layer?
Absolutely! You can sprinkle chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or even mini marshmallows on top of the melted chocolate before it sets. This adds texture and flavor, similar to variations seen in Dairy recipes that combine different elements for added enjoyment.
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).