Unbaked Peanut Butter Bars
Sweet, creamy peanut butter bars with butterscotch, marshmallows, coconut, and walnuts offer a rich treat perfect for snacking or dessert gatherings. Quick and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter, peanut butter, and butterscotch chips over low heat, stirring constantly.
- Cool slightly.
- Stir in mini marshmallows, flaked coconut, and chopped walnuts.
- Spoon the mixture into a buttered 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Sprinkle a little coconut on top.
- Refrigerate until firm.
- Cut into 1/2-inch bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, try using creamy peanut butter instead of crunchy. If you want to add a touch of flavor, consider incorporating a teaspoon of vanilla extract. You can substitute walnuts with pecans or omit them for a nut-free version. Ensure to stir the mixture continuously while melting to prevent burning, and allow it to cool slightly before adding marshmallows for the best results.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the bars into bite-sized pieces for easy serving at parties or gatherings. These peanut butter bars pair beautifully with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee. They also make a great addition to dessert platters alongside other treats like Buttery Black Walnut Brittle or Cherry Goody. Consider adding fresh fruit or whipped cream for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause the bars to lose their shape and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Unbaked Peanut Butter Bars contains roughly 1676 calories, with 29g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 151g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (58% of the Daily Value), iron (47% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 462mg per serving (20% 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 different types of chips in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute butterscotch chips with chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, or even a combination for a unique flavor. Just ensure that the chips you choose melt well, as this will affect the consistency of the bars.
What can I do if my mixture is too runny?
If your mixture seems too runny, try adding more flaked coconut or crushed graham crackers to thicken it up. Additionally, allow the mixture to cool for a bit longer before adding the marshmallows, as this will help it set better.
Can I make these bars vegan?
Yes, you can make these bars vegan by using dairy-free butter and peanut butter, as well as dairy-free butterscotch chips. Ensure that the mini marshmallows are also vegan-friendly. This way, you can enjoy a delicious treat that fits a vegan diet.
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).