Midwest Squares
Sweet and crunchy squares combining peanut butter cookie flavor with crisp cereal topping, perfect as a quick snack or easy treat for parties and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- On a greased cookie sheet, pat the peanut butter cookie dough into a rectangle about 10 x 13 inches and about 1/4 inch thick.
- Press crushed cereal flakes onto the top of the dough.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes.
- Cool slightly and cut into squares or diamond shapes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the peanut butter cookie mix. You can also substitute the cereal flakes with crushed graham crackers or even oats for a different texture. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free cookie mix. Ensure the dough is evenly spread for consistent baking.
Serving Suggestions
These Midwest Squares make a delightful snack or dessert on their own but pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat. Consider serving them alongside a fruit salad for a refreshing contrast. For more sweet indulgences, browse more American recipes that feature peanut butter or chocolate.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Midwest Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place squares in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or enjoy them cold for a crunchy treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Midwest Squares contains roughly 777 calories, with 32g protein, 107g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (78% of the Daily Value), protein (64% of the Daily Value), and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 532mg per serving (23% 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 natural peanut butter instead of the cookie mix?
While you can use natural peanut butter, it won't yield the same results as a pre-mixed cookie dough. If you prefer to use natural peanut butter, combine it with flour and sugar to create a dough that holds together better.
How can I make these squares more chocolatey?
To enhance the chocolate flavor, consider adding chocolate chips to the dough before baking. You can also drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled squares for an extra layer of sweetness.
Can I freeze these squares?
Yes, you can freeze Midwest Squares! Once cooled, cut them into squares and wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
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).