If you’re on the hunt for a treat that combines nostalgia, ease, and irresistible flavor, you’ve just found it with the Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares: Irresistibly Easy Magic Recipe. This delightful dessert brings together the crunchy sweetness of graham crackers, creamy peanut butter, and a luscious chocolate topping that’s as simple to make as it is to love. Whether you’re reminiscing about a day at the happiest place on earth or just craving a sweet, comforting bite, these squares deliver pure magic with every mouthful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and quality ingredients. Each component plays a key role: the graham crackers provide that perfect crunchy base, peanut butter adds creamy richness, powdered sugar brings sweetness and structure, and chocolate chips top it off with glossy indulgence. You’ll want to gather these essentials to get started on your irresistibly easy treat.
- Graham cracker sheets (14 whole): Crushing these creates the crisp, buttery foundation that holds everything together.
- Creamy peanut butter (2 cups): For smooth, nutty goodness that’s the star flavor.
- Butter, softened (8 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps the mixture bind perfectly.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Offers a warm, subtle sweetness that enhances the overall taste.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances sweetness and deepens flavor complexity.
- Powdered sugar (3½ cups): Sweetens and firms up the peanut butter layer for flawless slicing.
- Shortening (4 tablespoons): Blended with chocolate to create a shiny, firm topping.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (4 cups): The rich, glossy crown that makes these squares impossible to resist.
How to Make Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares: Irresistibly Easy Magic Recipe
Step 1: Crush the Graham Crackers
Start by crushing all 14 graham cracker sheets into fine crumbs. You want them evenly crushed so they blend seamlessly into the peanut butter mixture. A food processor works wonders here, but a sturdy ziplock bag and rolling pin will do just fine in a pinch.
Step 2: Mix the Peanut Butter Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat these together until smooth and well blended. This mixture forms the creamy, rich base that gives these squares their signature peanut butter punch.
Step 3: Incorporate Powdered Sugar and Graham Crumbs
Gradually add the powdered sugar and graham cracker crumbs into the peanut butter mixture. Stir until every bit is fully incorporated, resulting in a thick, slightly dough-like batter that’s perfectly sweet and holds its shape beautifully.
Step 4: Press Mixture into the Baking Dish
Transfer the peanut butter mixture into a greased or parchment-lined baking dish. Use a spatula or your hands (lightly greased) to press the mixture evenly across the bottom, creating a smooth, firm layer that will be the foundation of your squares.
Step 5: Melt Chocolate and Shortening
In a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips together with the shortening. Stir continuously until you achieve a silky, glossy chocolate sauce. This step is crucial, as the shortening keeps your topping shiny and gives it the perfect bite.
Step 6: Spread the Chocolate Layer
Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the peanut butter base, then use a spatula to spread it evenly. This luscious chocolate layer adds that irresistible finishing touch to your Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares: Irresistibly Easy Magic Recipe.
Step 7: Chill Until Set
Place the dish in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least an hour, or until the chocolate is firm to the touch. Patience here results in squares that slice cleanly without melting or crumbling.
Step 8: Cut and Serve
Once set, remove from the fridge and cut into 24 perfect squares. These bars are ready to wow at any gathering or just to enjoy as a sweet solo indulgence.
How to Serve Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares: Irresistibly Easy Magic Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop of presentation and flavor, sprinkle some crushed peanuts, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a pinch of sea salt over the chocolate layer before chilling. These simple additions complement the peanut butter and chocolate beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair these squares with a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee. The creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate fill out both drinks perfectly, creating the ultimate cozy combo.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the squares on a colorful serving platter with fresh berries or edible flowers around the edges for a festive look. For parties, wrap each square in a pretty cupcake liner as a cute, easy-to-grab treat that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to a week — perfect for snacking whenever a sweet craving hits.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead for future treats, wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and freeze them in a sealed container. They freeze beautifully and can be stored for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
These bars are best enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer a softer bite, let them sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving as it can alter the texture of the chocolate and peanut butter layers.
FAQs
Can I substitute crunchy peanut butter?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful texture contrast in the peanut butter layer, though the squares may be slightly less smooth. It’s a tasty variation if you love extra crunch.
What if I don’t have shortening for the chocolate?
You can skip the shortening, but your chocolate topping might be less glossy and a bit harder once set. If you prefer, vegetable oil or coconut oil are good substitutes that help achieve similar results.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Yes! Milk chocolate will make these squares sweeter and creamier, which is a lovely twist if you prefer your desserts on the sweeter side. Dark chocolate lovers might find semi-sweet balances the peanut butter perfectly.
Is it necessary to refrigerate the squares?
Refrigeration helps the chocolate set firmly and keeps the squares fresh longer, especially in warmer climates. If your kitchen is cool, they can be kept at room temperature for short periods but refrigerate for best results.
How do I prevent the peanut butter mixture from being crumbly?
Using softened butter and mixing the ingredients well ensures the peanut butter layer is creamy and cohesive. Also, press the mixture firmly into the pan to help it hold together when cutting.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares: Irresistibly Easy Magic Recipe that keeps me coming back time and again. It’s an effortlessly charming dessert that brings a bit of happy place magic right into your kitchen. Whether you’re making it for a crowd or just as a treat for yourself, these squares will delight with every bite. So go ahead, mix up a batch and let a little bit of Disneyland joy sweeten your day.
Print
Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares: Irresistibly Easy Magic Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes (for melting and setting chocolate)
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares are an irresistibly easy and nostalgic treat featuring a rich peanut butter and graham cracker base topped with a smooth chocolate layer. Perfect for parties, snacks, or any time you crave a sweet, no-bake dessert that combines creamy peanut butter and chocolate in delightful harmony.
Ingredients
Base
- 14 whole graham cracker sheets, crushed into fine crumbs
- 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 graham cracker sheets into fine crumbs, either by placing them in a sealed bag and using a rolling pin or pulsing in a food processor.
- Mix Peanut Butter Base: In a large bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until smooth and well blended to form a creamy mixture.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the powdered sugar and the crushed graham cracker crumbs to the peanut butter mixture. Mix thoroughly until all components are fully incorporated, creating a dough-like consistency.
- Press Into Dish: Evenly press the peanut butter mixture into a lined or greased baking dish, ensuring the surface is flat and compacted to form the base layer.
- Melt Chocolate Topping: In a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler, melt together the semi-sweet chocolate chips and shortening until smooth and glossy, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Spread Chocolate Layer: Pour and spread the melted chocolate mixture evenly over the peanut butter base layer in the baking dish.
- Cool and Set: Allow the assembled dessert to cool at room temperature or refrigerate until the chocolate topping is fully set and firm to the touch.
- Cut and Serve: Once set, cut the dessert into squares using a sharp knife and serve.
Notes
- For easier cutting, warm the knife slightly before slicing the chocolate layer.
- Store squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep fresh up to one week.
- Substitute shortening with coconut oil for a different flavor and texture.
- If you prefer a crunchy texture, use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy.
- This no-bake dessert is perfect for last-minute parties or potlucks.
