My Mom'S Hollywood Squares
Sweet and creamy peanut butter squares with a chocolate topping, perfect for sharing at parties or as a nostalgic treat. The combination of rich peanut butter, crunchy graham crackers, and smooth chocolate creates a delightful dessert that appeals to all ages and is easy to prepare for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the peanut butter, oleo, confectioners sugar, brown sugar, graham cracker crumbs, and vanilla until well combined.
- Press the mixture into a jelly roll pan to form an even layer.
- Melt the large Hershey bar, approximately half of a large bar.
- Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the peanut butter mixture in the pan.
- Allow the chocolate to set, then cut into 2-inch squares to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using natural peanut butter instead of regular for a creamier texture. If you want to reduce sugar, you can substitute some of the confectioners sugar with unsweetened cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist. Additionally, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the melted chocolate for a sweet and salty contrast.
Serving Suggestions
These squares make a delightful dessert for parties and gatherings. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a fun twist, serve them alongside Peanut Butter Graham Cracker Eggs during holiday celebrations or as a sweet treat at picnics.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer them chilled, you can refrigerate them for longer freshness. To reheat, place them in a microwave for a few seconds, just enough to soften them slightly without melting the chocolate.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of My Mom'S Hollywood Squares contains roughly 369 calories, with 10g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is a good source of protein (19% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (11% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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?
Absolutely! Almond butter or cashew butter can make for great substitutes if you're looking for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that the texture might slightly vary, but they'll still hold up well in this recipe.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make these squares gluten-free, simply substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham cracker alternatives or crushed gluten-free cookies. This adjustment will keep the texture and taste delightful while accommodating gluten sensitivities.
What can I do if I don’t have a jelly roll pan?
If you don't have a jelly roll pan, a regular baking dish or a 9x13 inch pan will work fine. Just be aware that the squares may be thicker, so you might need to adjust the setting time for the chocolate.
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).