These no-bake peanut butter chocolate squares with marshmallows are a fantastic treat for anyone who loves the classic combination of peanut butter and chocolate, especially when you need a quick dessert that doesn’t require turning on the oven. They’re incredibly simple to assemble, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
With their creamy texture, rich flavor, and delightful hint of marshmallow, these squares are sure to become a family favorite. They offer a satisfying sweetness without being overly complicated, proving that some of the best desserts are also the easiest to make.
Table of Contents
- What You’ll Love About This Quick And Easy Recipe
- Everything You Need To Make This Recipe Without Stress
- Time Needed From Start To Finish
- How To Make It Step By Step With Visual Cues
- Easy Variations And Serving Ideas That Fit Real Life
- Common Slip-Ups And How To Avoid Them
- How To Store It And Make It Ahead Without Ruining Texture
- Questions People Always Ask Before Making This Recipe
No-Bake Peanut Butter Chocolate Squares with Marshmallows
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 12-16 squares 1x
Description
These no-bake peanut butter chocolate squares with marshmallows are a fantastic treat for anyone who loves the classic combination of peanut butter and chocolate, especially when you need a quick dessert that doesn’t require turning on the oven. They’re incredibly simple to assemble, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. With their creamy texture, rich flavor, and delightful hint of marshmallow, these squares are sure to become a family favorite. They offer a satisfying sweetness without being overly complicated, proving that some of the best desserts are also the easiest to make.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. Prepare Your Pan: Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This will make it much easier to lift the entire batch out of the pan for cutting later. Lightly grease the parchment paper if desired, though it’s often not necessary with the high fat content of the base.
2. Melt Butter and Peanut Butter: In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each, until completely melted and smooth. Alternatively, you can do this over low heat on the stovetop in a large saucepan, stirring constantly.
3. Create the Peanut Butter Base: Remove the melted mixture from the heat (or microwave). Stir in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until well combined and smooth. The mixture should be thick but still pliable.
4. Add Crispy Rice Cereal: Gently fold in the crispy rice cereal until it is evenly coated with the peanut butter mixture. Make sure not to crush the cereal too much; you want to maintain its crunch.
5. Press into Pan: Transfer the peanut butter cereal mixture into the prepared 9×13 inch pan. Using the back of a spoon or your hands (lightly greased if it’s too sticky), press the mixture down firmly and evenly into the pan. Ensure it’s packed tightly to form a solid base.
6. Prepare the Chocolate Topping: In a separate microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth and fully melted. Stir in the mini marshmallows until they are just coated and slightly softened by the warm chocolate, but not completely melted.
7. Spread Chocolate Topping: Pour the chocolate and marshmallow mixture evenly over the peanut butter base in the pan. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it smoothly to the edges.
8. Chill and Cut: Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until the chocolate topping is firm and set. Once firm, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire slab out of the pan. Place it on a cutting board and cut into squares using a sharp knife. For clean cuts, you can wipe the knife with a warm, damp cloth between cuts.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: dessert
- Method: no-bake
- Cuisine: american
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
Keywords: peanut butter, chocolate, marshmallow, no-bake, dessert, easy, kid-friendly, sweet, squares, cereal
What You’ll Love About This Quick And Easy Recipe
This recipe is a true winner because it delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. It’s perfect for anyone who loves the classic combination of peanut butter and chocolate but doesn’t have a lot of time for baking. You’ll appreciate how quickly these squares come together, making them an ideal choice for a spontaneous treat or when you need a dessert in a hurry. Families will especially love this recipe because it’s so kid-friendly to make (and eat!). It’s a great option for after-school snacks, potlucks, or simply satisfying a sweet craving without a lot of fuss. These squares are also fantastic for parties or picnics since they hold up well and don’t require refrigeration until serving, though they are delicious chilled.
Everything You Need To Make This Recipe Without Stress
Gathering your ingredients for these no-bake squares is straightforward, as most items are likely already in your pantry. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, using common ingredients to create something truly delicious.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups creamy peanut butter
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 cups crispy rice cereal
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
For the butter, using unsalted allows you to control the overall saltiness of the squares. If you only have salted butter, you can still use it, but you might want to omit any additional salt if you usually add it to similar recipes. When it comes to peanut butter, creamy is essential for the smooth texture of the base. Avoid natural peanut butter that separates, as it can make the mixture oily and difficult to set properly. Any brand of powdered sugar will work, and the vanilla extract adds a lovely depth of flavor. Crispy rice cereal provides that satisfying crunch, and semi-sweet chocolate chips are perfect for the topping, offering a balanced sweetness. If you prefer a darker chocolate, you can certainly use dark chocolate chips instead. Mini marshmallows are key for that subtle, chewy texture and visual appeal. If you don’t have mini marshmallows, you can cut larger marshmallows into smaller pieces, but the minis melt more evenly.
Time Needed From Start To Finish
The fantastic thing about these no-bake squares is how quickly they come together. You’ll spend very little time actively working on them, making them ideal for busy schedules.
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Chilling Time: 60 minutes (minimum)
- Total Time: 75 minutes
While the active prep is just a few minutes, allowing adequate chilling time is crucial for the squares to set properly and be easy to cut. Don’t rush this step!
How To Make It Step By Step With Visual Cues
Making these no-bake peanut butter chocolate squares is incredibly simple, even for beginner cooks. Follow these steps for perfect results every time.
- Prepare Your Pan: Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This will make it much easier to lift the entire batch out of the pan for cutting later. Lightly grease the parchment paper if desired, though it’s often not necessary with the high fat content of the base.
- Melt Butter and Peanut Butter: In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each, until completely melted and smooth. Alternatively, you can do this over low heat on the stovetop in a large saucepan, stirring constantly.
- Create the Peanut Butter Base: Remove the melted mixture from the heat (or microwave). Stir in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until well combined and smooth. The mixture should be thick but still pliable.
- Add Crispy Rice Cereal: Gently fold in the crispy rice cereal until it is evenly coated with the peanut butter mixture. Make sure not to crush the cereal too much; you want to maintain its crunch.
- Press into Pan: Transfer the peanut butter cereal mixture into the prepared 9×13 inch pan. Using the back of a spoon or your hands (lightly greased if it’s too sticky), press the mixture down firmly and evenly into the pan. Ensure it’s packed tightly to form a solid base.
- Prepare the Chocolate Topping: In a separate microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth and fully melted. Stir in the mini marshmallows until they are just coated and slightly softened by the warm chocolate, but not completely melted.
- Spread Chocolate Topping: Pour the chocolate and marshmallow mixture evenly over the peanut butter base in the pan. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it smoothly to the edges.
- Chill and Cut: Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until the chocolate topping is firm and set. Once firm, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire slab out of the pan. Place it on a cutting board and cut into squares using a sharp knife. For clean cuts, you can wipe the knife with a warm, damp cloth between cuts.
Easy Variations And Serving Ideas That Fit Real Life
These no-bake squares are incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit different tastes or occasions. For a fun twist, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt flakes over the chocolate topping before it sets. This enhances the chocolate and peanut butter flavors beautifully. If you’re a fan of nuts, a handful of chopped peanuts or even a mix of pecans or walnuts could be folded into the peanut butter base along with the cereal for extra texture and flavor.
For serving, these squares are perfect as a simple dessert after dinner, or as part of a larger dessert spread at a party or potluck. They’re sturdy enough to transport easily, making them ideal for school lunches or picnics. Kids especially love these, so consider cutting them into smaller “bite-sized” pieces for little hands. You can also drizzle a little extra melted peanut butter or chocolate over the top just before serving for an extra flourish. For a more decadent treat, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Common Slip-Ups And How To Avoid Them
Even with a simple recipe like this, a few common mistakes can impact the final result. Being aware of them can help you achieve perfect squares every time.
One frequent issue is not chilling the squares long enough. If you try to cut them before the chocolate topping is fully set, it will be messy, and the squares won’t hold their shape. Patience is key here; give them the full hour (or more) in the refrigerator.
Another common mistake is using the wrong type of peanut butter. Natural peanut butter that separates into oil and solids will make the base greasy and difficult to bind properly. Stick to creamy, processed peanut butter for the best texture.
Over-mixing the crispy rice cereal can also be a pitfall. If you stir too vigorously, you’ll crush the cereal, losing that satisfying crunch that makes these squares so good. Fold it in gently until just combined.
Finally, overheating the chocolate for the topping can cause it to seize or become grainy. Melt it slowly in short bursts in the microwave, stirring frequently, or use a double boiler method for more controlled melting. Adding marshmallows to very hot chocolate can also cause them to completely disappear, so ensure the chocolate is just melted and smooth before stirring them in.
How To Store It And Make It Ahead Without Ruining Texture
These no-bake peanut butter chocolate squares are excellent for making ahead and store beautifully, making them a convenient option for meal prep or entertaining.
Once cut, store the squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If your kitchen is particularly warm, or if you prefer them firmer, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. If refrigerated, allow them to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor.
For longer storage, these squares can also be frozen. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw frozen squares in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours before enjoying. The texture holds up remarkably well after freezing and thawing.
Questions People Always Ask Before Making This Recipe
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy? While creamy peanut butter is recommended for the smoothest base, you can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer an extra nutty texture. Just be aware the
FAQs
- Can I make these ahead? Yes—prep ahead, refrigerate, then serve when ready.
- How long do leftovers last? Store covered in the fridge for 3–4 days for best texture.
- Can I adjust sweetness? Yes—add more or less sweetener to taste.
- Can I change the fruit? Yes—swap strawberries for blueberries, raspberries, or sliced banana.
