Peanut Butter Candy Squares
Delicious peanut butter candy squares feature rich peanut flavor and a chocolate topping, perfect for satisfying sweet tooth cravings and ideal for sharing at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine peanut butter, confectioners sugar, light brown sugar, and melted margarine; mix thoroughly with hands and press into a 9 x 13-inch or slightly larger pan.
- Pack down the mixture hard.
- Melt 1/2 stick margarine, chocolate chips, and Crisco together in a pan on the stove or in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Pour or spread the melted mixture quickly and smoothly over the peanut butter layer.
- Cool in the refrigerator for 10 minutes.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, sift the confectioners' sugar before mixing it with the other ingredients. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half the peanut butter with almond butter. For added flavor, consider mixing in a teaspoon of vanilla extract. Make sure to pack the peanut butter layer tightly to ensure the squares hold together well after cutting.
Serving Suggestions
These peanut butter candy squares are perfect for parties or as a sweet treat after dinner. They pair beautifully with a glass of cold milk or a cup of coffee for a delightful dessert experience. You can also sprinkle some sea salt on top before serving for an added flavor contrast. For a fun twist, try drizzling caramel sauce over the squares.
Storage & Reheating
Store the peanut butter candy squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you'd like to keep them longer, you can freeze the squares, separated by parchment paper, for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peanut Butter Candy Squares contains roughly 1029 calories, with 23g protein, 87g carbohydrates, and 72g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (46% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 514mg per serving (22% 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 regular peanut butter?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but keep in mind that it may alter the texture of the squares. Natural peanut butter tends to be more oily, so you might need to adjust the amount of sugar or add a little more margarine to achieve the desired consistency.
What can I use instead of margarine?
You can substitute margarine with unsalted butter or coconut oil if you're looking for a dairy-free option. Just note that the flavor may vary slightly, with coconut oil adding a hint of coconut flavor to the candy squares.
How can I make these squares more festive?
To add a festive touch, consider incorporating crushed nuts, sprinkles, or mini marshmallows into the chocolate layer before it sets. You could also cut the squares into fun shapes using cookie cutters for special occasions or holidays.
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).