Peanut Butter Cups In A Pan
Creamy peanut butter and crushed graham crackers combine into a rich, sweet treat topped with smooth chocolate, perfect for sharing at parties or satisfying a dessert craving.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix margarine, powdered sugar, peanut butter, and graham cracker crumbs in a bowl.
- Spread the mixture evenly in a greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave for about 5 minutes at 50% power, stirring halfway through.
- Pour the melted chocolate evenly over the peanut butter mixture in the pan.
- Chill the pan in the refrigerator until the mixture is firm.
- Remove from refrigerator and let warm to room temperature to prevent crumbling when cutting.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using natural peanut butter instead of creamy varieties. You can also substitute half of the margarine with coconut oil for added flavor. If you prefer a crunchier texture, add chopped nuts or use crunchy peanut butter instead. To make a variation, try adding a layer of crushed Oreo cookies before the chocolate layer for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
These peanut butter cups are perfect for parties or as a sweet treat after dinner. They pair beautifully with a glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a fun presentation, serve them alongside the Blackberry Tarte for a delightful dessert platter. Cut them into smaller squares for bite-sized treats that guests can easily enjoy.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, let the squares sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This will help them soften slightly, making them easier to cut and enjoy without crumbling.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peanut Butter Cups In A Pan contains roughly 676 calories, with 11g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g 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 chocolate for the topping?
Yes, you can use dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even a mix of different chocolates for the topping. Just keep in mind that different types of chocolate may have varying melting points, so adjust the melting time accordingly.
What can I do if I don't have graham cracker crumbs?
If you don't have graham cracker crumbs, you can substitute them with crushed digestive biscuits or even crushed vanilla wafers. These alternatives will provide a similar texture and flavor to the base of your peanut butter cups.
How do I make these peanut butter cups vegan?
To make these peanut butter cups vegan, substitute the margarine with a plant-based butter or coconut oil, and ensure that the chocolate chips are dairy-free. This way, you can enjoy a delicious, vegan-friendly treat without losing flavor.
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).