If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that combines nostalgic charm and melt-in-your-mouth goodness, look no further than the Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares: Irresistibly Easy Magic Recipe. This delightful treat captures that classic Disney magic in each bite, marrying creamy peanut butter, rich chocolate, and crunchy graham crackers into a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Whether you’re serving up a crowd-pleaser for a party or just treating yourself, this recipe brings joy with minimal fuss and maximum deliciousness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is what makes this recipe so approachable. Each element plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture—from the crispness of the graham crackers to the smooth richness of the peanut butter and the decadent chocolate topping.
- 14 whole graham cracker sheets: Crushed finely, they add a crunchy base with that nostalgic sweetness.
- 2 cups creamy peanut butter: Provides luscious creaminess and the star flavor of the squares.
- 8 tablespoons butter, softened: Adds richness and helps bind the base layer together smoothly.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla: Enhances the flavor depth with a subtle aromatic warmth.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies the peanut butter’s natural flavor.
- 3½ cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the mixture, giving it that perfect fudgy consistency.
- 4 tablespoons shortening: Keeps the melted chocolate shiny and smooth when topped.
- 4 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips: Creates a rich, glossy chocolate layer that complements the peanut butter below.
How to Make Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares: Irresistibly Easy Magic Recipe
Step 1: Crush the Graham Crackers
Start by crushing the whole graham cracker sheets into fine crumbs. You want a texture that’s almost like coarse sand, which helps give the base a satisfying crunch while blending perfectly with the creamy peanut butter mixture.
Step 2: Combine the Peanut Butter Mixture
In a large bowl, mix together the creamy peanut butter, softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt. This combination creates a smooth, flavorful mixture that forms the heart of these squares. Make sure everything is well blended so every bite is evenly luscious.
Step 3: Add Powdered Sugar and Graham Cracker Crumbs
Gradually stir in the powdered sugar and then fold in the graham cracker crumbs. The powdered sugar sweetens and thickens while the cracker crumbs add texture, resulting in a thick dough-like consistency ready to shape the bottom layer.
Step 4: Press the Mixture into a Baking Dish
Line a baking dish with parchment paper or grease it lightly, then firmly press the peanut butter mixture into an even layer. Patting it down well helps the squares hold their shape when cut, making the final presentation neat and inviting.
Step 5: Melt Chocolate Chips and Shortening
In a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler, gently melt the chocolate chips along with the shortening. This keeps the chocolate glossy and easy to spread, creating a flawless top layer that hardens with the perfect snap.
Step 6: Spread Melted Chocolate Over the Peanut Butter Layer
Pour the melted chocolate over the pressed peanut butter base and smooth it evenly with a spatula. This chocolate topping seals in the flavors and adds a rich contrast that partners beautifully with the peanut butter beneath.
Step 7: Let It Cool Until Chocolate Sets
Allow the dessert to sit at room temperature or chill in the fridge until the chocolate layer has completely hardened. This is important for clean, satisfying cuts and to keep the squares intact when serving.
Step 8: Cut Into Squares and Serve
Once fully set, lift the dessert out of the pan using the parchment paper edges and slice into 24 squares. These rich, chewy, chocolate-topped treats are now ready to impress friends and family alike!
How to Serve Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares: Irresistibly Easy Magic Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of flair, sprinkle crushed peanuts or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top just before serving. You can also add a drizzle of caramel or a few sea salt flakes for a gourmet twist that enhances the classic flavors.
Side Dishes
These peanut butter squares pair wonderfully with a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cold glass of milk to balance the richness. Fresh fruit, like sliced strawberries or banana, can add a refreshing dimension if you want a lighter accompaniment.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these squares on a decorative platter at a party or stack them attractively in a clear jar for gifting. Wrapping individual squares in wax paper tied with a ribbon makes a charming homemade treat that’s as delightful to give as it is to eat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer freshness, keep them refrigerated—this also helps maintain the firm texture of the chocolate layer.
Freezing
You can freeze these squares by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to two months. When you’re ready, thaw in the fridge overnight before serving to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheating isn’t really necessary with Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares: Irresistibly Easy Magic Recipe since they’re ideal served chilled or at room temperature. However, if you prefer a softer chocolate top, a few seconds in the microwave can soften it gently—just watch carefully to avoid melting too much.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter adds a pleasant extra texture, but keep in mind it might slightly change the smoothness of the base. Both options are delicious, so feel free to choose based on your preference.
Is shortening necessary for the chocolate topping?
Shortening helps keep the melted chocolate silky and prevents it from cracking when cooled. If you don’t have shortening, a small amount of coconut oil can be a good substitute.
Can I make these squares gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap out graham crackers for gluten-free graham-style crackers or gluten-free cookie crumbs. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this an easy modification.
How thick should the peanut butter layer be?
A thickness of about one inch is ideal to create a sturdy base that contrasts nicely with the chocolate layer. Pressing it firmly into the pan helps achieve this without it being crumbly or too thin.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to the base?
Definitely! Chopped peanuts, mini chocolate chips, or even a handful of toffee bits can be folded into the base for extra crunch and flavor variation. Just be sure to maintain the right consistency for pressing.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the humble Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares: Irresistibly Easy Magic Recipe. It’s an inviting blend of simple ingredients that come together to create a dessert that feels like a warm hug from a dear friend. Whether you’re new to peanut butter treats or a lifelong fan, these squares are bound to become a beloved go-to for satisfying that sweet tooth with ease and joy. Trust me, once you make them, you’ll want to keep this magic recipe close forever.
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Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares: Irresistibly Easy Magic Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares are a nostalgic, incredibly easy treat that combines a buttery peanut butter crust with a rich, smooth chocolate topping, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Base:
- 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
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; this will form the base texture for the squares.
- Mix Peanut Butter Base: In a large bowl, combine 2 cups creamy peanut butter, 8 tablespoons softened butter, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon salt. Mix thoroughly until smooth and uniform.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add 3½ cups powdered sugar and the graham cracker crumbs to the peanut butter mixture. Stir well until fully incorporated, creating a thick dough-like mixture.
- Press into Pan: Transfer the mixture into a baking dish and press it evenly to form a compact layer for the peanut butter base.
- Melt Chocolate and Shortening: In a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, gently melt 4 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips with 4 tablespoons shortening together until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Spread Chocolate Topping: Pour and evenly spread the melted chocolate mixture over the peanut butter base in the baking dish.
- Chill to Set: Allow the dish to cool at room temperature or refrigerate briefly until the chocolate layer hardens and sets completely.
- Cut and Serve: Once set, cut the layered dessert into squares and serve as a delightful treat.
Notes
- Use creamy peanut butter for the smoothest texture.
- Shortening helps the chocolate topping set with a firmer finish and glossy shine.
- Press the base firmly into the pan to ensure the squares hold together well.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- To speed up setting, refrigerate for 30 minutes before cutting.
