Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares Recipe

Gooey Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares Recipe for Sweet Tooths

Crafting these delectable peanut butter marshmallow squares brings pure childhood nostalgia rushing back to me.

Sweet memories dance through my kitchen whenever I mix these ingredients.

Soft marshmallows and creamy peanut butter create a magical combination that melts hearts instantly.

Each bite transports us to carefree afternoons of sugary indulgence.

Simple ingredients transform into something extraordinary with minimal effort.

Layers of gooey sweetness promise an irresistible treat that will have everyone asking for seconds.

You won’t be able to stop at just one square of this irresistible confection.

Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares That Mix Soft And Sweet

  • Speedy Sweet Treat: Whip up these delightful squares in just minutes with minimal kitchen effort.
  • Quick Cooling Convenience: Chill in the refrigerator for two hours, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert for busy schedules.
  • Kid-Friendly Crowd-Pleaser: Combines classic flavors of peanut butter, marshmallows, and butterscotch that children and adults will adore.
  • No-Bake Bliss: Skip the oven completely and create a delicious dessert using simple stovetop melting techniques with zero baking skills required.

Marshmallow Squares with Peanut Butter Ingredients

Base Ingredients:
  • Butter, Peanut Butter, Butterscotch Chips: Rich foundation that creates a creamy, sweet base with nutty undertones. Choose high-quality unsalted butter and smooth peanut butter for best results.
Binding Ingredients:
  • Marshmallows: Soft, fluffy element that adds sweetness and helps bind the squares together. Mini marshmallows work best for even distribution.
Flavor Enhancer:
  • Vanilla Extract: Provides warm, subtle depth to the overall flavor profile. Pure vanilla extract offers the most authentic taste.
Preparation Ingredients:
  • Parchment Paper, Cooking Spray or Shortening: Essential for easy removal and preventing sticking. Non-stick options ensure clean-cut squares.

Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares – Quick Instructions

Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares - Quick Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Baking Pan

Grab an 8×8 or 9×9 inch pan and line it with parchment paper.

Lightly coat the paper with cooking spray or a thin layer of shortening to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create Melt-Worthy Base

In a medium saucepan, combine:
  • Butter
  • Peanut butter
  • Butterscotch chips

Melt these ingredients over low heat, stirring gently until the mixture transforms into a smooth, glossy liquid.

Step 3: Enhance Flavor Profile

Remove the pan from heat and pour in vanilla extract.

Stir thoroughly to blend the flavors completely into the melted mixture.

Step 4: Incorporate Fluffy Marshmallows

Let the mixture cool slightly to prevent marshmallows from completely melting.

Add marshmallows and fold gently until they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 5: Transfer and Chill

Pour the marshmallow mixture into the prepared pan.

Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the surface, ensuring a smooth top.

Transfer the pan to the refrigerator and let it set for approximately 2 hours.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Once the squares are firm and fully set, remove from the refrigerator.

Lift the parchment paper to remove the entire block, then cut into delightful squares using a sharp knife.

Marshmallow Square Tips With Peanut Butter

  • Opt for an 8×8
  • Line the pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it to make removing and cutting squares effortless.
  • Use low heat when melting butter, peanut butter, and butterscotch chips to avoid burning and maintain smooth consistency.
  • Let the mixture cool slightly before stirring in marshmallows to prevent them from completely melting and losing their texture.
  • Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow squares to set completely, making them easier to slice and serving with a satisfying firm texture.

Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares Stay Soft Overnight

  • Store squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  • Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months for longer preservation.
  • Remove frozen squares from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before enjoying, ensuring they soften evenly.
  • For best texture and flavor, consume squares slightly chilled, which helps maintain their firm yet creamy consistency.

Sweet Picks For Marshmallow Squares

  • Beverage Boost: Pair these sweet squares with cold milk to cut through the richness and provide a creamy contrast that refreshes the palate.
  • Coffee Companion: Serve alongside a hot espresso or cappuccino, where the bitter coffee notes balance the marshmallow's sugary sweetness perfectly.
  • Dessert Wine Match: Choose a sweet dessert wine like Moscato d'Asti, which complements the butterscotch and peanut butter flavors without overwhelming the treat.
  • Complementary Crunch: Add a side of toasted almonds or pecans to introduce a nutty crunch that enhances the peanut butter's depth and provides textural contrast.

Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares Variants

  • Gluten-Free Version: Replace butterscotch chips with gluten-free butterscotch chips and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
  • Nut-Free Alternative: Swap peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or alternative seed butter for those with nut allergies.
  • Vegan Option: Use coconut oil instead of butter, dairy-free butterscotch chips, and vegan marshmallows to create a plant-based friendly dessert.
  • Low-Sugar Adaptation: Substitute regular marshmallows with sugar-free marshmallows and use a sugar-free butterscotch chip alternative for a reduced-sugar treat.

FAQs

  • Do I need to use a specific type of peanut butter?

No, any creamy or smooth peanut butter works well. Just avoid natural or separated peanut butter that might affect the texture.

  • Can I use different chips instead of butterscotch?

Yes, you can substitute butterscotch chips with chocolate chips or white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.

  • Why do I need to let the mixture cool before adding marshmallows?

Cooling prevents marshmallows from completely melting, which helps maintain their shape and creates a more textured dessert. If the mixture is too hot, marshmallows will dissolve and lose their distinct appearance.

  • How do I know when the squares are set and ready?

The squares are ready when they feel firm to the touch and hold their shape when you lift the parchment paper. Refrigerating for about 2 hours ensures they are completely hardened.

Print
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Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares Recipe

Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares Recipe


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4.7 from 13 reviews

  • Total Time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Sweet nostalgia meets creamy indulgence in these peanut butter marshmallow squares, a classic treat that whispers childhood memories. Chocolate drizzles and gooey marshmallows create a simple yet irresistible dessert you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 5 cups mini marshmallows
  • 1 cup peanut butter
  • 11 ounces (310 grams) butterscotch chips

Binding Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup butter

Additional Flavor:

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare a square baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, ensuring complete coverage and lightly coating with a thin layer of non-stick spray.
  2. Combine butter, peanut butter, and butterscotch chips in a medium saucepan over gentle heat.
  3. Stir the ingredients continuously until they melt into a uniform, glossy mixture with no visible lumps.
  4. Remove the pan from heat and introduce vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly to integrate the flavors.
  5. Allow the melted mixture to cool for several minutes, preventing marshmallows from completely dissolving when added.
  6. Gently fold marshmallows into the warm mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed without breaking apart.
  7. Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared pan, using a spatula to create an even, smooth surface.
  8. Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for approximately two hours until the mixture solidifies completely.
  9. Once set, lift the parchment paper to remove the entire dessert from the pan and slice into neat, uniform squares.

Notes

  • Prevent sticking by thoroughly greasing parchment paper with extra cooking spray or butter for easy square removal.
  • Opt for low heat when melting ingredients to avoid burning or separating the mixture, ensuring a smooth, creamy texture.
  • Consider using mini marshmallows for more even distribution and quicker melting throughout the peanut butter base.
  • Experiment with alternative nut butters like almond or cashew for unique flavor variations while maintaining the same recipe structure.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: None
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 24 g
  • Sodium: 120 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 15 mg
Daniel Bruns

Daniel Bruns

Founder & Culinary Innovator

Expertise

Recipe development for home cooks, Nutritional analysis and meal planning, Culinary education and food writing

Education

Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts
Diploma in Culinary Arts and Operations
Focus: Classical and contemporary cooking techniques, Culinary entrepreneurship and kitchen management, Menu development and food cost analysis


Daniel’s story started with flour on his face and a pie in the oven at his grandma’s house. He later sharpened his skills at the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts.
His goal? Recipes so simple you’ll want to cook every night. When he’s not whipping up one-pan wonders, Daniel’s outside picking herbs, hosting neighborhood cook-offs, or baking chocolate cakes with his kids, messy, sweet, and unforgettable.

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