A Sweet & Nostalgic Treat
Imagine biting into a chewy, gooey square that combines the rich creaminess of peanut butter with the delicate sweetness of marshmallows and a silky butterscotch finish. These Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares are comfort food at its finest—easy to make, irresistibly sweet, and perfect for sharing or indulging solo. Whether you’re looking for a no-bake dessert for a gathering, a homemade snack for movie night, or a gift wrapped in wax paper, this recipe delivers simplicity and scrumptiousness in every bite.
Ingredients
- ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter
- 1 cup (about 240 g) creamy peanut butter
- 2 cups butterscotch chips
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 5 cups mini marshmallows
Preparation Steps
- Prepare your pan. Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) square baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This ensures easy removal of the squares later.
- Melt the butter and peanut butter. In a medium saucepan over low to medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, whisk in the creamy peanut butter until fully smooth and combined.
- Add butterscotch chips. Stir the butterscotch chips into the butter–peanut butter mixture. Continue stirring gently until the chips are completely melted and the mixture is silky. Remove the pan from heat.
- Stir in vanilla. Add the teaspoon of vanilla extract to the melted mixture and stir to distribute it evenly.
- Incorporate marshmallows. Gradually fold in the 5 cups of mini marshmallows. Use a rubber spatula to make sure the marshmallows are well-coated with the melted mixture but try not to deflate them too much.
- Transfer to pan. Immediately pour the marshmallow–butterscotch mixture into your prepared pan. Use the spatula (or lightly buttered fingertips) to gently press it down into an even layer.
- Let it set. Allow the squares to cool at room temperature until slightly firm, then place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 1–2 hours to fully set.
- Cut and serve. Once set, lift the parchment paper out of the pan and cut into squares of your desired size using a sharp knife.
Professional Serving Suggestions
- Neatly presentation: Use a sharp knife warmed in hot water (then wiped dry) to make clean cuts. This helps prevent sticking or ragged edges.
- Garnish ideas: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of each square for a sweet-and-salty balance. You could also drizzle melted chocolate over them for a more decadent finish.
- Serving pairings: Serve alongside a cold glass of milk, a cup of strong coffee, or hot chocolate. These squares also pair well with fruit platters or as part of a dessert buffet.
- Gift packaging: Wrap individual squares in parchment or wax paper and tie with a ribbon for thoughtful homemade gifts.
Discussion Questions
- How would you customize this recipe to suit different dietary preferences, such as using almond butter or dairy-free chips?
- What memories or emotions does this kind of chewy, gooey dessert evoke for you—does it remind you of childhood or holidays?
- Would you rather keep these squares soft and slightly squishy or firmer by refrigerating longer? Why?
- How might you adapt this recipe for a large gathering or potluck (e.g., doubling, using a larger pan, making bite-size pieces)?
Important Notes
- Heat gently: When melting butter, peanut butter, and chips, use low to medium heat and stir continuously to avoid scorching.
- Marshmallow folding: Be gentle when folding in the marshmallows so you don’t deflate them too much; the air in marshmallows helps give the final texture its light, fluffy quality.
- Setting time: Make sure to let the mixture cool completely before refrigerating so the squares will set properly.
- Storage: Store the squares in an airtight container. At room temperature, they may stay good for 2–3 days; in the refrigerator, they can last up to a week.
- Freezing option: You can freeze cut squares (place parchment paper between layers) for up to 1–2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I substitute the butterscotch chips with regular chocolate chips?
Yes — semisweet or milk chocolate chips work beautifully and create a different but equally delicious flavor profile.
Q: Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
You can, but crunchy peanut butter may affect the texture slightly by adding bits of peanuts. It’s still a tasty variation.
Q: What if I don’t have mini marshmallows — can I use large ones?
Yes, you can use large marshmallows. Simply chop them into smaller pieces to help them melt more evenly and integrate better.
Q: Can I make these in a different size pan?
Absolutely. If you use a larger pan (e.g., 9×13 inch), the squares will be thinner and may set more quickly, but adjust cutting sizes accordingly.
Q: Are there any vegan or dairy-free versions?
Yes — use a plant-based margarine or coconut butter instead of butter, and choose vegan butterscotch or chocolate chips. Also, use marshmallows that are gelatin-free.
Enjoy making and sharing these delightful Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares