Peanut Butter Chip Bars
Chewy, sweet, and salty peanut butter chip bars combine cake mix, marshmallows, and nuts for a crowd-pleasing dessert perfect for parties or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the cake mix, margarine, and egg in a 9 x 13-inch pan and bake at 350°F for 15 to 18 minutes.
- Remove from oven and place marshmallows on top. Return to oven for 1 to 2 minutes until marshmallows are puffy.
- In a saucepan, melt together corn syrup, butter, vanilla, and peanut butter chips until smooth.
- Stir in Rice Krispies and peanuts until well coated.
- Spread the peanut butter mixture evenly over the marshmallow layer.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using salted butter instead of margarine. If you’re out of corn syrup, honey or agave nectar can work as substitutes, though they may alter the sweetness slightly. To keep it gluten-free, use a gluten-free cake mix. For a twist, mix in some crushed pretzels for added crunch, reminiscent of flavors found in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
These bars make a delightful snack on their own but can also be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. Pairing with a glass of cold milk enhances the flavors and creates a comforting treat. For a festive touch, consider serving them alongside Katherine's Blueberry Cobbler during gatherings or celebrations.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover peanut butter chip bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. To enjoy them warm, simply microwave a piece for about 10-15 seconds before serving. This helps to soften the marshmallows and enhance the flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peanut Butter Chip Bars contains roughly 1041 calories, with 14g protein, 131g carbohydrates, and 53g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 786mg per serving (34% 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 regular-sized marshmallows instead of mini ones?
Yes, you can use regular marshmallows, but you should cut them in half to ensure they melt evenly on top of the cake layer. This allows for a nice, puffy texture while keeping the bars cohesive.
What can I substitute for peanuts if there are allergies?
If you're looking for a nut-free option, consider using sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead. They provide a similar crunch without the nut allergy concerns. You can also increase the amount of Rice Krispies to maintain texture.
Can I freeze these peanut butter chip bars?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then bring to 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).