If you have a sweet tooth that craves a nostalgic treat with a delightful twist, you are going to absolutely love the Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares: Irresistibly Easy Magic Recipe. This recipe brings together the perfect balance of creamy peanut butter, crunchy graham crackers, and a luscious chocolate topping, creating a no-bake dessert that feels like a joyful bite of magic. Whether you’re making it for a get-together or a cozy night in, these squares are sure to become a fast favorite thanks to their rich texture and unbeatable flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward yet essential to capturing the authentic taste and texture of this classic treat. Each one plays its part in delivering that irresistible chewy, crunchy, and creamy combination that makes Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares so unforgettable.
- Graham cracker sheets: Crushed finely to add a crispy, slightly sweet base that balances the peanut butter perfectly.
- Creamy peanut butter: Adds richness and smoothness for that signature peanut butter flavor you’ll fall in love with.
- Butter, softened: Brings moisture and a silky texture to bind the ingredients beautifully.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a subtle warmth and depth.
- Salt: A pinch to heighten the sweetness and round out the taste.
- Powdered sugar: Provides the sweetness and helps create a fudgy consistency in the peanut butter layer.
- Shortening: Used to smooth the chocolate topping, making it glossy and easy to spread.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melted to create that rich, decadent chocolate layer that complements the peanut butter base perfectly.
How to Make Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares: Irresistibly Easy Magic Recipe
Step 1: Crush the Graham Crackers
Start by crushing the 14 whole graham cracker sheets into fine crumbs. You can do this by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and crushing with a rolling pin or pulsing in a food processor. The fine texture is key for that perfect base, giving just the right crunch and blend without any big chunks.
Step 2: Mix the Peanut Butter, Butter, Vanilla, and Salt
In a large bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until smooth and creamy. This mixture will form the rich heart of your squares, so take a moment to make sure it’s perfectly blended.
Step 3: Add Powdered Sugar and Graham Cracker Crumbs
Gently fold in the powdered sugar and the graham cracker crumbs to the peanut butter mixture. This step thickens the mix, giving it that fudge-like consistency that will hold together beautifully once chilled.
Step 4: Press Mixture into Baking Dish
Line a baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal, then press the peanut butter and graham cracker mixture evenly into the bottom. Use a spatula or your hands to smooth it out, making sure it’s packed tightly for a firm base.
Step 5: Melt Chocolate Chips and Shortening
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and shortening. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each, until the mixture is fully melted and smooth. The shortening will ensure your chocolate topping stays glossy and easy to spread.
Step 6: Spread Melted Chocolate Over Peanut Butter Layer
Pour the chocolate mixture over the prepared peanut butter layer and use a spatula to spread it evenly. This creates that beautiful, shiny chocolate finish that makes these squares look as good as they taste.
Step 7: Let It Cool Until Set
Place the dish in the refrigerator and allow the chocolate topping to fully set. This usually takes about an hour, but you’ll know it’s ready when the surface is firm to the touch.
Step 8: Cut into Squares and Serve
Once set, lift the entire block out of the dish using the parchment paper edges and cut it into 24 equally sized squares. Now the fun part—grab a piece, take a bite, and revel in the delightful magic of this easy treat.
How to Serve Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares: Irresistibly Easy Magic Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a touch of flair can elevate these squares from delicious to dazzling. Consider topping them with a light dusting of powdered sugar, a sprinkle of crushed peanuts for added crunch, or even a drizzle of melted white chocolate for a pretty contrast. These simple touches add personality and extra texture.
Side Dishes
These squares pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, especially if you’re serving them as a dessert after a hearty meal. For a snack, try enjoying them alongside fresh fruit like sliced apples or berries for a refreshing balance of sweet and tart.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation is everything when sharing these little bites of joy. Arrange the squares on a festive platter with colorful paper liners, or stack them in a decorative jar tied with a ribbon for a charming gift. You could also serve them on skewers with marshmallows and strawberries for a fun party platter that’s sure to wow guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay perfectly tasty for up to 5 days, which is plenty of time to savor every last one without losing any of that signature chewiness or chocolate shine.
Freezing
Want to make these ahead for busy days? These peanut butter squares freeze beautifully. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them all together in a freezer-safe bag or container. When stored in the freezer, they maintain their rich flavor and texture for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Since these are best served chilled, skip the microwave heating. Instead, simply thaw frozen pieces at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Letting them sit for 15 to 30 minutes ensures the chocolate topping and peanut butter layers soften just enough to revive that irresistible melt-in-your-mouth effect.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds a lovely texture contrast that some people enjoy even more. Just keep in mind it will make the inside a bit chunkier, which can be delightful.
Is it necessary to use shortening in the chocolate topping?
Shortening isn’t mandatory but highly recommended. It gives the chocolate topping a smooth, shiny finish and helps prevent it from becoming hard and brittle when set. You can use coconut oil as an alternative.
How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking when cutting?
Make sure the chocolate layer is completely set and use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between cuts. Allowing the squares to come to room temperature for a few minutes before cutting can also minimize cracking.
Can I make these squares gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the graham crackers for a gluten-free variety. The rest of the recipe remains the same and just as delicious.
What’s the best way to transport these for a party?
Place the squares on a sturdy tray lined with parchment paper and cover loosely with plastic wrap or a container lid. Keep them chilled until just before serving to maintain their shape and freshness.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely hope you give the Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares: Irresistibly Easy Magic Recipe a whirl because it’s more than just a dessert—it’s a ticket to a blissful treat that is quick to make and simply unforgettable. Once you taste that buttery peanut butter blended with rich chocolate and the subtle crunch of graham crackers, I’m sure you’ll find yourself making these over and over again.
Print
Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares: Irresistibly Easy Magic Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes (mainly melting chocolate and setting time)
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares are an irresistibly easy treat combining a crunchy graham cracker base with a creamy peanut butter layer, topped with rich melted chocolate. Perfect for a quick dessert or party snack, these squares have a nostalgic flavor and require no baking.
Ingredients
Base and Filling
- 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 to form the base mixture.
- Mix Peanut Butter Layer: In a bowl, combine 2 cups of creamy peanut butter, 8 tablespoons of softened butter, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon salt. Mix thoroughly until smooth.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add 3½ cups of powdered sugar and the crushed graham cracker crumbs into the peanut butter mixture. Stir well to combine into a uniform dough-like consistency.
- Press Mixture Into Dish: Evenly press this peanut butter and graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of a baking dish to form the base layer.
- Melt Chocolate Topping: In a suitable bowl, melt 4 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips together with 4 tablespoons of shortening until smooth and glossy, either using a microwave in short bursts or a double boiler method.
- Spread Chocolate Layer: Pour and spread the melted chocolate evenly over the peanut butter layer in the dish, ensuring full coverage.
- Set and Cool: Allow the chocolate to cool at room temperature or in the refrigerator until fully set and hardened.
- Cut and Serve: Once set, cut into squares (24 servings) and serve as a delightful dessert or snack.
Notes
- Use creamy peanut butter for a smooth texture.
- Shortening helps the chocolate topping to set with a better texture and shine.
- Press the mixture firmly into the dish to help the squares hold their shape when cut.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- For easier cutting, chill the squares well before slicing.
