If you’re looking for a dessert that combines nostalgic flavors with effortless charm, the Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares: Irresistibly Easy Magic Recipe is just what you need. This delightful treat layers creamy peanut butter, crunchy graham crackers, and luscious chocolate into perfect little squares that are super simple to make yet incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re planning a fun party snack or a quick homemade indulgence, these squares have a way of bringing magic to any moment without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for straightforward ingredients that come together to create a texture-packed, flavor-rich experience. Each one plays a distinct role, from the crunch of the graham crackers to the silky chocolate topping that finishes these squares off beautifully.
- 14 whole graham cracker sheets: Crushed to form the crunchy base that balances the creamy peanut butter layer perfectly.
- 2 cups creamy peanut butter: The star ingredient that adds richness and that irresistible nutty flavor.
- 8 tablespoons butter, softened: Binds the mixture together while adding depth and smoothness.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla: Enhances the sweetness with a warm aromatic touch.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies the peanut butter’s natural flavor.
- 3½ cups powdered sugar: Gives the squares their sweet, melt-in-your-mouth quality and firm structure.
- 4 tablespoons shortening: Helps the chocolate topping stay glossy and spreadable.
- 4 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips: Provides a rich, chocolatey finish that perfectly contrasts the peanut buttery base.
How to Make Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares: Irresistibly Easy Magic Recipe
Step 1: Crush the Graham Crackers
Start by crushing the graham cracker sheets into fine crumbs. You can do this by placing them in a zip-top bag and gently pounding them with a rolling pin or using a food processor for a quicker option. These crumbs are going to give you that signature crunch and lovely texture foundation.
Step 2: Mix the Peanut Butter Mixture
In a large bowl, blend the creamy peanut butter with softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir these together well until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency that smells so inviting you might be tempted to sneak a taste!
Step 3: Combine with Powdered Sugar and Graham Cracker Crumbs
Add the powdered sugar and graham cracker crumbs to the peanut butter mixture. Use a sturdy spoon or your hands to mix until everything is fully incorporated and the mixture becomes thick and easy to press into a pan. This step ensures the perfect balance of sweet and salty with a wonderful crumbly texture.
Step 4: Press Mixture Into Baking Dish
Take your peanut butter mixture and firmly press it into a greased or parchment-lined baking dish. Smoothing the surface with the back of a spoon or your hand is key to an even layer that will hold together beautifully when cut.
Step 5: Melt Chocolate Chips and Shortening
In a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler, melt together the semi-sweet chocolate chips and shortening. The shortening adds shine and helps keep the chocolate topping smooth and glossy rather than stiff or brittle.
Step 6: Spread Melted Chocolate Over Peanut Butter Layer
Carefully pour and spread the melted chocolate over the pressed peanut butter base. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to create an even, luscious chocolate layer that’s going to set into a perfect finishing touch.
Step 7: Let It Cool Until the Chocolate Sets
Place the dish in the refrigerator and let the chocolate topping set completely. This usually takes about 30 minutes, depending on your fridge. Patience here means beautifully firm squares that hold their shape and have that satisfying snap when you bite in.
Step 8: Cut Into Squares and Serve
Once set, remove from the fridge and cut into 24 squares. These bite-sized treats are perfect for sharing or enjoying as your own little indulgence whenever a chocolate and peanut butter craving strikes.
How to Serve Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares: Irresistibly Easy Magic Recipe
Garnishes
While these squares are delicious all on their own, consider dusting them lightly with powdered sugar or topping with a few chopped peanuts for added texture and visual appeal. A sprinkle of sea salt can also enhance the flavors beautifully if you like a little salty kick.
Side Dishes
These squares pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even alongside fresh fruit like strawberries or bananas to add a refreshing contrast. They also make an excellent accompaniment to coffee or hot chocolate during cozy afternoons.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or gift, arrange Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares: Irresistibly Easy Magic Recipe on a decorative platter with colorful napkins. Wrapping individual squares in parchment paper tied with twine creates charming homemade gifts. You can also layer them in a mason jar with parchment between layers for a portable, adorable treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Because of the chocolate topping, they’ll keep their texture and flavor beautifully for up to one week, making them perfect to prepare ahead of time for easy snacking.
Freezing
If you want to keep Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares: Irresistibly Easy Magic Recipe longer, you can freeze them. Wrap the squares individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will maintain their freshness for up to 2 months and thaw quickly at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.
Reheating
These squares taste best fresh or chilled but if you prefer, you can warm individual squares slightly by gently microwaving in 10-second intervals to soften the chocolate. Just be careful not to overheat, as the peanut butter layer can melt and lose its shape.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add a bit more texture and nutty crunch to your squares, which many people love. Just be sure to blend it well with the butter and other ingredients for an even base.
Is there a substitute for shortening in the chocolate layer?
You can use coconut oil as a healthier alternative to shortening. It melts and smooths chocolate nicely but may add a slight coconut flavor, which pairs beautifully with peanut butter if you enjoy that taste.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the graham crackers for gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or even crushed gluten-free cookies. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
What size baking dish is best to use?
A 9×13 inch baking dish works perfectly for these squares, allowing for easy pressing and cutting into 24 equal pieces. Make sure to line it with parchment or grease it well to avoid sticking.
How long do these squares keep at room temperature?
Because of the peanut butter and chocolate, it’s best to keep the squares refrigerated. At room temperature, they may become too soft and lose their firmness within a few hours, especially in warm weather.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly wonderful about Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares: Irresistibly Easy Magic Recipe that makes dessert feel like a celebration. With minimal effort and simple ingredients, you get a rich, crunchy, and chocolaty treat that’s perfect for sharing or savoring by yourself. Give this recipe a try, and you might find it becomes one of your go-to favorites whenever you want a little magic in your kitchen.
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Irresistible Creamy Chicken and Spinach Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes (includes melting chocolate and setting time)
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares are an irresistibly easy and delicious treat that combines a crunchy graham cracker crust with a creamy peanut butter layer, topped with a smooth chocolate coating. Perfect for parties or any time you crave a sweet, homemade dessert.
Ingredients
Base Layer
- 14 whole graham cracker sheets
- 2 cups creamy peanut butter
- 8 tablespoons butter, softened
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3½ cups powdered sugar
Chocolate Topping
- 4 tablespoons shortening
- 4 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Crush Graham Crackers: Begin by crushing the 14 whole graham cracker sheets into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and crushing them with a rolling pin.
- Mix Peanut Butter Layer: In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of creamy peanut butter, 8 tablespoons of softened butter, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Mix thoroughly until smooth and creamy.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add 3½ cups of powdered sugar and the crushed graham cracker crumbs to the peanut butter mixture. Stir well until the mixture becomes thick and well combined.
- Press Into Dish: Transfer the peanut butter mixture into a baking dish (approximately 9×13 inches) and press it evenly to form a compact layer.
- Melt Chocolate Topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 4 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips and 4 tablespoons of shortening. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
- Spread Chocolate: Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the peanut butter layer and spread it evenly using a spatula.
- Cool and Set: Allow the squares to cool at room temperature or refrigerate for about 1 hour until the chocolate topping is fully set and firm.
- Cut and Serve: Once set, cut the dessert into 24 squares and serve. Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Notes
- For best results, use creamy peanut butter for a smooth texture.
- Shortening in the chocolate topping helps to keep the chocolate shiny and easier to spread.
- Store squares in the refrigerator to maintain firmness, especially in warm climates.
- To make cutting easier, chill the dessert before slicing.
- You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with milk or dark chocolate according to preference.
