Peanut Butter Cup Golden Grahams Smores Bars.
When it comes to indulgent treats, few things can compete with the delightful combination of peanut butter and chocolate paired with the nostalgic crunch of cereal. Enter these Peanut Butter Cup Golden Grahams Smores Bars. They are a heavenly blend of flavors and textures that will have you reaching for seconds (and thirds!). Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in, these bars are sure to be a hit. The gooey mini marshmallows, rich peanut butter cups, and crispy Golden Grahams create a treat that satisfies every sweet tooth.
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation
These Peanut Butter Cup Golden Grahams Smores Bars. are not just delicious; they are incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip these up in no time. They are the perfect no-bake dessert that doesn’t require turning on the oven, making them ideal for hot summer days or any time you want a quick sweet fix. Plus, who can resist the charm of a s’more-inspired treat? These bars are a fun twist on a classic favorite and are sure to impress anyone who tries them.
What You’ll Need
- 1 stick (8 tablespoons) salted butter – This will give the bars a rich flavor.
- 26 ounces mini marshmallows – The gooey element that holds everything together.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a lovely depth of flavor.
- 10 cups Golden Grahams cereal – The crunchy base that gives these bars their signature texture.
- 2 cups mini peanut butter cups – The star of the show, bringing a delightful peanut butter flavor.
Gear Checklist
- Large mixing bowl – For combining all the ingredients.
- Medium saucepan – For melting the butter and marshmallows.
- Spatula – To mix everything together and spread the mixture into the pan.
- 9×13 inch baking dish – The perfect size for these delicious bars.
- Parchment paper – To line the baking dish for easy removal.
Peanut Butter Cup Golden Grahams Smores Bars., Made Easy
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by lining your 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Leave some overhang on the sides to make it easy to lift the bars out later.
Step 2: Melt the Butter and Marshmallows
In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the stick of salted butter. Once melted, add in the 26 ounces of mini marshmallows. Stir continuously until the marshmallows are completely melted and the mixture is smooth. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Add Vanilla Extract
Once the marshmallows are melted, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. This will enhance the flavor of your Peanut Butter Cup Golden Grahams Smores Bars.
Step 4: Combine with Cereal
In a large mixing bowl, add the 10 cups of Golden Grahams cereal. Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the cereal and gently fold everything together until the cereal is evenly coated.
Step 5: Add the Peanut Butter Cups
Carefully fold in the 2 cups of mini peanut butter cups, ensuring they are distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 6: Spread into the Baking Dish
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use the spatula to press it down firmly and evenly. This step is crucial for the bars to hold together once they cool.
Step 7: Let it Set
Allow the mixture to cool at room temperature for about 1 hour. If you’re in a hurry, you can place it in the refrigerator to speed up the process.
Substitutions by Category
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free Golden Grahams or another gluten-free cereal.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with a plant-based butter alternative and use dairy-free chocolate peanut butter cups.
- Nut-Free: Replace the peanut butter cups with a nut-free chocolate candy.
- Vegan: Use a plant-based butter alternative and vegan marshmallows.
Slip-Ups to Skip
- Don’t rush the melting process; keep the heat low to avoid burning the marshmallows.
- Make sure to fully coat the cereal with the marshmallow mixture to ensure the bars hold together.
- Don’t skip the cooling step; cutting into the bars too early will result in a gooey mess.
- Use a non-stick spray or butter on your spatula to help spread the mixture evenly.
How to Store & Reheat
Store your Peanut Butter Cup Golden Grahams Smores Bars. in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them fresh for a longer period, you can refrigerate them. To reheat, simply pop a bar in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to get that gooey marshmallow goodness back.
Quick Q&A
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars can be made a day or two in advance. Just store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
What if I can’t find mini peanut butter cups?
If you can’t find mini peanut butter cups, you can chop regular-sized peanut butter cups into small pieces or use other chocolate candies that you enjoy.
Can I add other mix-ins?
Definitely! Feel free to add in other ingredients like crushed graham crackers, chocolate chips, or even nuts for extra texture and flavor.
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The Last Word
These Peanut Butter Cup Golden Grahams Smores Bars. are a delightful treat that brings together all the best flavors of childhood in a simple yet satisfying dessert. With their crispy texture, gooey marshmallows, and rich peanut butter flavor, they are bound to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re enjoying them at a summer barbecue or as a cozy night treat, these bars are sure to put a smile on your face. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to indulge in a sweet masterpiece that everyone will love!
Peanut Butter Cup Golden Grahams Smores Bars.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by lining your 9x13 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Leave some overhang on the sides to make it easy to lift the bars out later.
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the stick of salted butter. Once melted, add in the 26 ounces of mini marshmallows. Stir continuously until the marshmallows are completely melted and the mixture is smooth. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the marshmallows are melted, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the 10 cups of Golden Grahams cereal. Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the cereal and gently fold everything together until the cereal is evenly coated.
- Carefully fold in the 2 cups of mini peanut butter cups, ensuring they are distributed throughout the mixture.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use the spatula to press it down firmly and evenly.
- Allow the mixture to cool at room temperature for about 1 hour.
Notes
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- For longer storage, refrigerate them to keep fresh.
- To reheat, microwave for 10-15 seconds for gooey goodness.
