Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares Recipe

These delightful Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares Recipe are a nostalgic treat that brings back warm childhood memories. The combination of creamy peanut butter, sweet butterscotch chips, and colorful rainbow marshmallows creates an irresistible dessert perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply craving something sweet, these squares are sure to impress with their rich flavor and chewy texture.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Squares
• How to Make Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares Recipe
• Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
• Step 2: Melt Ingredients
• Step 3: Mix in Marshmallows
• Step 4: Spread Mixture in Pan
• Step 5: Refrigerate
• Step 6: Slice and Store
• How to Serve Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares Recipe
• For a Festive Occasion
• As an After-School Snack
• At Parties
• For Movie Nights
• How to Perfect Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares Recipe
• Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares Recipe
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares Recipe
• Reheating Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares Recipe
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use different types of nut butter?
• How do I make these squares vegan?
• What if I don’t have butterscotch chips?
• Are Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares gluten-free?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe comes together in just 15 minutes of prep time, making it ideal for last-minute dessert cravings.
• Fun and Colorful: The rainbow marshmallows not only add visual appeal but also a fun twist that kids will absolutely love.
• Rich Flavor Combination: The mix of peanut butter and butterscotch creates a uniquely delicious taste that pairs perfectly with the lightness of marshmallows.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 20 squares in total, you can easily share these treats at parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a dessert after dinner or as a sweet snack throughout the day.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this easy recipe, gather the necessary tools to streamline your cooking process. Having everything on hand will make preparation smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8×8 inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Medium saucepan
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• 8×8 inch baking pan: This size is perfect for achieving the right thickness for your squares.
• Parchment paper: Lining the pan with parchment makes it easy to remove your squares without sticking.
• Medium saucepan: Ideal for melting ingredients evenly over low heat without burning.
• Spatula: Helps to mix ingredients thoroughly and spread the mixture evenly in the pan.

Ingredients

For the Squares

• 1 package butterscotch chips (300g package (I used Chipits))
• 1 cup crunchy or creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 package rainbow miniature marshmallows (250g package)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

How to Make Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

First, put the bag of marshmallows in the freezer. This prevents them from melting too quickly later. Next, line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 2: Melt Ingredients

In a medium saucepan over low heat:
1. Combine the butterscotch chips, peanut butter, and butter.
2. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth.
3. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly to prevent melting the marshmallows.

Step 3: Mix in Marshmallows

Once cooled:
1. Quickly fold in the vanilla extract.
2. Add in the frozen marshmallows gently so they remain intact.

Step 4: Spread Mixture in Pan

Pour the mixture into your prepared pan:
1. Use a spatula or spoon to spread it evenly into all corners of the pan.

Step 5: Refrigerate

Refrigerate your dish until firm:
– This takes about 1 hour.

Step 6: Slice and Store

After firming up:
1. Remove from the pan by lifting out using parchment paper.
2. Slice into squares and store them in either the refrigerator or freezer for later enjoyment!

Enjoy these delightful Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares at your next get-together or keep them as a sweet treat for yourself!

How to Serve Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares Recipe

Serving Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares is all about enhancing their delightful flavor and texture. These treats can be enjoyed in various ways, making them perfect for different occasions.

For a Festive Occasion

• Holiday Platters: Arrange squares on a decorative platter with other festive treats like cookies and candies for a colorful dessert spread.
• Gift Boxes: Package squares in clear boxes tied with ribbons to share as homemade gifts during the holidays.

As an After-School Snack

• With Milk: Pair these squares with a cold glass of milk for a comforting after-school treat that kids will love.
• Nut Butter Dip: Serve alongside a small bowl of additional peanut butter or chocolate sauce for dipping, adding an extra layer of indulgence.

At Parties

• Dessert Bar: Include in a dessert bar alongside other sweets, allowing guests to pick their favorites and create their own dessert combinations.
• Ice Cream Topping: Crumble the squares over vanilla ice cream to add a crunchy and sweet topping.

For Movie Nights

• Snack Bowl: Cut into smaller pieces and place in a bowl for easy snacking while watching movies, ensuring everyone can enjoy them effortlessly.

How to Perfect Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares Recipe

To achieve the best results with your Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares, consider these simple tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your peanut butter, marshmallows, and butterscotch chips are fresh for the best flavors.
• Control Heat Carefully: Melt the ingredients on low heat to avoid burning. Stir constantly until smooth.
• Cool Before Mixing: Allow the melted mixture to cool slightly before adding marshmallows. This prevents them from melting into gooeyness.
• Chill Properly: Refrigerate the squares until they are fully set. This helps them hold their shape when sliced.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor variations.
• Store Correctly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer for longer freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares can create a balanced meal or fun snack spread. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the squares.
2. Cheese Platter: Include varieties like cheddar or gouda for a savory contrast that complements the sweetness.
3. Veggie Sticks with Hummus: Crunchy vegetables served with hummus provide a healthy option that complements rich desserts well.
4. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: The salty-sweet combination enhances the dessert experience while adding crunch.
5. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a light, creamy side that contrasts nicely.
6. Milkshakes: A thick milkshake can be an indulgent pairing that makes for an exciting treat combo during dessert time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Using melted marshmallows: Ensure your marshmallows are cold from the freezer before mixing. This prevents them from melting into the mixture.
• Overheating ingredients: Melt the butterscotch chips and peanut butter on low heat. High heat can cause the mixture to burn or become grainy.
• Not lining the pan: Always line your pan with parchment paper. This makes it easier to remove the squares without breaking them.
• Skipping refrigeration: Refrigerate until firm. Skipping this step can result in a messy cut and soft squares that won’t hold their shape.
• Ignoring measurements: Be precise with your ingredient measurements. Too much butter or peanut butter can alter the texture and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Freezing Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares Recipe

• Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-10 minutes until slightly soft.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 15-20 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place in a non-stick pan over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares that might help you out!

Can I use different types of nut butter?

You can substitute peanut butter with almond or cashew butter for a twist on this Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares Recipe. Just make sure they are creamy for best results.

How do I make these squares vegan?

To make a vegan version of this recipe, use dairy-free butter and ensure your butterscotch chips are also dairy-free.

What if I don’t have butterscotch chips?

You can replace butterscotch chips with chocolate chips or white chocolate chips, though it will change the flavor profile slightly.

Are Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free ingredients like specific brands of butterscotch chips, this recipe is gluten-free!

Final Thoughts

Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares are a delightful treat that brings back childhood memories while being easy to make. Their creamy texture combined with colorful marshmallows makes them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize by adding nuts or using different flavored chips—experimenting is part of the fun!