Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares I

Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares Recipe | USA | Ingredients: Peanut Butter Chips, Chocolate Chips, and More

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 5 minutes | Servings: 48 squares

Introduction

Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares are a delicious and indulgent treat that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate in a convenient and easy-to-make square. These squares are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or for sharing with friends and family.

History

The combination of peanut butter and chocolate has been a classic flavor pairing for decades. The exact origins of Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares are unclear, but they have become a popular dessert option at potlucks, parties, and bake sales.

Ingredients

2 packages (10 oz each) of peanut butter chips
0.33 cup of unsalted butter, cut up
2 cans (14 oz each) of sweetened condensed milk
2 cups of finely ground honey graham cracker crumbs
0.5 cup of finely chopped unsalted peanuts + 1 cup of coarsely chopped peanuts
12 oz package of semisweet chocolate chips

How to prepare

Line a baking pan with foil.
In a bowl, combine peanut butter chips and butter.
Microwave the mixture on 50% power for 30 seconds, then stir.
Return the mixture to the microwave and heat on high for 1 minute and 30 seconds, stirring every 30 seconds.
Whisk in the milk.
Stir in the crumbs and 0.5 cup of peanuts.
Pat the mixture into the pan.
Refrigerate until firm.
In a separate bowl, microwave the chocolate chips on high for 1 minute.
Stir the chocolate until smooth. Microwave for additional time if needed.
Spread the melted chocolate over the top of the peanut mixture.
Sprinkle the remaining peanuts on top.
Let the mixture stand at room temperature for 1 hour.
Cut into 48 squares.

Variations

Add a layer of caramel or marshmallow fluff between the peanut butter mixture and chocolate topping.
Sprinkle sea salt on top of the chocolate for a sweet and salty flavor combination.
Use white chocolate chips instead of semisweet chocolate for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to line your baking pan with foil for easy removal of the squares.

- Be sure to stir the peanut butter and butter mixture frequently while microwaving to prevent burning.

- Refrigerate the mixture until firm before adding the melted chocolate on top.

- Allow the squares to stand at room temperature for at least an hour before cutting into squares for easier slicing.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares as a dessert at parties, potlucks, or bake sales. They also make a great gift for friends and family.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to microwave the peanut butter and butter mixture on 50% power to prevent burning.

- Stir the chocolate chips frequently while melting to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use almond butter or sunflower seed butter in place of peanut butter for a different flavor.

- Substitute crushed pretzels or Oreo cookies for the graham cracker crumbs for a different texture.

Make Ahead Tips

Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the squares on a decorative platter and garnish with additional chopped peanuts or a drizzle of melted chocolate for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares with a glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic and delicious dessert pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares contains approximately 22 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares contains approximately 4 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares are not a significant source of essential vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares contain peanuts and dairy. They may also contain traces of other allergens such as soy and wheat.

Summary

Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares are a delicious but indulgent treat that should be enjoyed in moderation due to their high fat and calorie content.

Summary

Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares are a decadent and delicious treat that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate in a convenient and easy-to-make square. Enjoy them as a dessert or share them with friends and family for a sweet and satisfying treat.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares. It was a warm summer afternoon, and I was rummaging through an old box of recipes that I had collected over the years. As I sifted through the yellowed papers and faded index cards, one caught my eye.

It was a simple recipe, written in elegant script on a piece of parchment paper. The title read "Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares." Intrigued, I read through the ingredients and instructions. It seemed easy enough, but the combination of chocolate and peanut butter was one that I had never tried before.

I decided to give it a go, gathering the necessary ingredients and preheating the oven. As I mixed together the butter, sugar, and flour for the crust, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement. There was something special about this recipe, something that told me it would become a favorite in my repertoire.

Once the crust was baked and cooled, I spread a generous layer of creamy peanut butter over the top. The smell of the warm peanut butter mingling with the buttery crust was intoxicating. I could hardly wait to add the final touch - a rich layer of melted chocolate.

As I drizzled the chocolate over the top and smoothed it out with a spatula, I knew that I had stumbled upon something truly magical. The combination of flavors and textures was perfection, and I couldn't wait to share this recipe with my family and friends.

I served up the squares that evening after dinner, watching as my loved ones took their first bites. Their eyes lit up with delight, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in our household for years to come.

Over the years, I have made these Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares countless times, each batch as delicious as the last. I have shared the recipe with friends, neighbors, and even strangers who have become fast friends after tasting these delectable treats.

But the true joy of this recipe lies not just in its taste, but in the memories that it holds for me. Every time I make these squares, I am transported back to that warm summer afternoon when I first discovered the recipe. I remember the excitement and anticipation I felt as I prepared them for the first time, and the joy that I saw on the faces of my loved ones as they savored each bite.

As I grow older, I know that this recipe will continue to hold a special place in my heart. It is a reminder of the simple pleasures in life, of the joy that can be found in a delicious treat shared with those we love. And for that, I am truly grateful.