If you’re looking for a nostalgic, melt-in-your-mouth treat that captures the magic of a classic favorite, the Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares Recipe is an absolute must-try. This simple no-bake dessert blends creamy peanut butter, buttery graham cracker crumbs, and a luscious layer of chocolate for a sweet that’s both rich and perfectly balanced. It’s the kind of indulgence that makes you feel like you’re reliving a sunny day at the happiest place on earth, all from the comfort of your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in how a handful of straightforward ingredients come together to create a delightfully rich and satisfying treat. Each item plays a vital role in developing the perfect texture and flavor that makes these squares unforgettable.
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter: The star ingredient offering smooth, velvety richness that binds everything together.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened): Adds luscious creaminess and helps set the base layer with a silky texture.
- 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar: Provides sweetness and gives structure to the peanut butter mixture; sifting can make it extra smooth.
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (finely ground): Adds a subtle crunch and classic flavor reminiscent of freshly baked cookies.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors, adding warmth and depth to the peanut butter base.
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melts into a rich, glossy topping that perfectly complements the peanut butter layer.
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter (for melting with chocolate): Infuses the chocolate layer with a subtle peanut butter undertone and ensures smooth melting.
How to Make Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. This simple step will make it so much easier to lift out the entire slab of peanut butter squares later and get those perfect, clean cuts.
Step 2: Mix the Peanut Butter Base
In a large bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, softened unsalted butter, vanilla extract, powdered sugar, and finely ground graham cracker crumbs. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and uniform—this forms a deliciously thick base that’s both creamy and a little crumbly, just how you want it.
Step 3: Press the Base into the Pan
Once mixed, press the peanut butter base evenly into the lined baking dish. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to smooth it out flat. This layer is the heart of your Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares Recipe, so getting it evenly pressed means each bite will be perfectly balanced.
Step 4: Melt the Chocolate Topping
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips with the 2 tablespoons of peanut butter. Heat the mixture in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each, until everything is melted into a glossy, smooth chocolate topping infused with peanut butter goodness.
Step 5: Spread the Chocolate Layer
Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter base and spread it evenly using a spatula. This rich chocolate layer is the crowning glory, creating a decadent contrast to the peanut butter beneath.
Step 6: Chill and Set
Refrigerate the dish for at least 2 hours to let the chocolate harden and the flavors marry. Once fully set, cut into 16 perfect squares ready to be enjoyed!
How to Serve Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares Recipe
Garnishes
While these peanut butter squares are perfectly delicious on their own, you can take them up a notch with simple garnishes. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of chopped roasted peanuts adds a little extra crunch and eye-catching appeal. For a fun twist, drizzle some melted white chocolate or caramel over each square just before serving.
Side Dishes
This treat shines as a standalone dessert but pairs beautifully with a few thoughtfully chosen sides. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream brings a creamy softness that complements the dense squares. Fresh fruit, like sliced strawberries or banana, can also balance the richness with a hint of natural sweetness and freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re sharing these at a party or gift-giving, consider layering them in a decorative box with parchment separators or wrapping individual squares in wax paper tied with string. Serving them on a wooden board alongside other no-bake treats makes for a colorful, inviting dessert spread that’s sure to impress friends and family alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your leftover Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares Recipe treats will keep wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Keeping them chilled preserves the chocolate topping’s glossy finish and the peanut butter layer’s tender texture, so each bite stays perfect.
Freezing
You can freeze these squares for up to 2 months by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe container. When ready to indulge, thaw in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. This way, you can keep a stash of your favorite peanut butter bars ready whenever a craving hits.
Reheating
Reheating is not necessary since these are best enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer a softer texture, allow the squares to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it may cause the chocolate to melt unevenly and change the texture.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful texture to the base, giving each square a little more bite and peanutty crunch without sacrificing the overall creaminess.
Is it necessary to use graham cracker crumbs?
Graham cracker crumbs give the squares their classic flavor and help set the texture. However, if you don’t have them, you can substitute with finely crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers for a slightly different but still delicious result.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, swap the unsalted butter for a plant-based margarine or coconut oil. Ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free as well. The peanut butter adds plenty of richness, so the swap works nicely.
How thick should each square be when I press it into the pan?
You want to press the mixture evenly to form about a 1/2 to 3/4-inch thick layer. This thickness balances well with the chocolate topping, creating a satisfying bite without being too dense.
What’s the best chocolate to use for the topping?
Semi-sweet chocolate chips are ideal because their slight bitterness offsets the sweetness of the peanut butter layer perfectly. However, you can also experiment with milk chocolate for a sweeter result or dark chocolate for an intense contrast.
Final Thoughts
This Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is irresistible to eat. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, these no-bake bars deliver creamy peanut butter goodness wrapped in rich chocolate with a subtle crunch that will keep you coming back for more. Give it a try and watch these squares become your new favorite go-to dessert!
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Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 16 squares
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares are a delightful no-bake dessert featuring a creamy peanut butter base topped with rich, melted chocolate. These bars combine the classic flavors of peanut butter and chocolate in a simple, refrigerator-chilled treat that’s perfect for sharing or satisfying a sweet craving.
Ingredients
Peanut Butter Base
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (finely ground)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Chocolate Topping
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter (for melting with chocolate)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper ensuring it covers the bottom and sides for easy removal of the bars later.
- Make the Peanut Butter Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, softened butter, vanilla extract, powdered sugar, and finely ground graham cracker crumbs. Mix together thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
- Form the Base Layer: Press the peanut butter mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a compact and uniform layer.
- Melt Chocolate Topping: Place the semi-sweet chocolate chips and 2 tablespoons of peanut butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each session, until the chocolate and peanut butter have melted together smoothly without lumps.
- Assemble and Chill: Pour the melted chocolate mixture evenly over the peanut butter base layer. Use a spatula to spread it smoothly across the surface. Place the dish in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours or until the chocolate topping has set completely.
- Serve: Once set, lift the parchment paper out of the dish and cut the dessert into 16 squares. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- Sift the powdered sugar before mixing to achieve a smoother texture in the base layer.
- For added crunch and texture, use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy.
- Store any leftover squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
