No Bake Payday Nut Squares Recipe

Introduction

No Bake Payday Nut Squares are a deliciously simple treat that combines sweet and salty flavors with a satisfying crunch. These bars come together quickly and require no oven time, making them perfect for an easy snack or dessert.

Ingredients

• 3 cups salted peanuts (divided, no skins)
• 2.5 tbsp butter
• 2 cups peanut butter chips
• 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
• 2 cups miniature marshmallows
• Kosher or sea salt (optional, for topping)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Grease an 11″ x 7″ pan to prevent the nut squares from sticking.
2. Step 2: Evenly spread 1½ cups of salted peanuts on the bottom of the pan to create a crunchy base.
3. Step 3: In a large saucepan, combine butter and peanut butter chips. Heat over low, stirring constantly until smooth, about 10 minutes.
4. Step 4: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in sweetened condensed milk and marshmallows, mixing until fully melted and smooth.
5. Step 5: Pour the peanut butter mixture over the peanut layer in the pan and spread evenly with a spatula.
6. Step 6: Sprinkle the remaining 1½ cups of salted peanuts on top. Optionally, add a pinch of kosher or sea salt.
7. Step 7: Cover the pan and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set.
8. Step 8: Once set, cut the bars into squares. Serve chilled for a firm texture, or allow to reach room temperature for a softer bite.

Tips & Variations

• Use roasted peanuts for extra flavor.
• Swap peanut butter chips for butterscotch or white chocolate chips for a different taste.
• Add a sprinkle of chopped chocolate or drizzle melted chocolate on top for added richness.
• For a nut-free option, substitute peanuts with toasted sunflower seeds.

Storage

Store the nut squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to one month—thaw in the refrigerator before serving. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature depending on your texture preference.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use unsalted peanuts instead of salted?

Yes, but you may want to add a pinch of sea salt on top to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavor.

Do these bars need to be refrigerated?

Yes, refrigeration helps the bars set and keeps them firm. They can be served chilled or at room temperature for a softer texture.

No Bake Payday Nut Squares Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 90 reviews

• Author: Isabella
• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 16 bars (cut into 2 x 2 inch squares) 1x

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Description

No Bake Payday Nut Squares are a deliciously easy treat featuring layers of salted peanuts coated in a smooth, sweet peanut butter and marshmallow mixture. This no-bake dessert offers a perfect balance of crunchy nuts and creamy sweetness, ideal for snacks, dessert bars, or an anytime indulgence without heating up the oven.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Nut Base

• 3 cups salted peanuts, no skins, divided

Peanut Butter Mixture

• 2.5 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups peanut butter chips
• 14 oz sweetened condensed milk (approximately 1 can)
• 2 cups miniature marshmallows

Optional Topping

• Kosher or sea salt, for sprinkling

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan: Grease an 11″ x 7″ pan thoroughly to prevent the nut squares from sticking later during refrigeration.
2. Layer the Peanuts: Spread 1½ cups of salted peanuts evenly across the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crunchy base layer.
3. Melt Butter and Peanut Butter Chips: In a large saucepan over low heat, combine the butter and peanut butter chips. Stir constantly for about 10 minutes until the mixture is completely smooth and melted.
4. Add Sweetened Condensed Milk and Marshmallows: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and miniature marshmallows, mixing until everything is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
5. Pour Peanut Butter Mixture: Pour the warm peanut butter mixture evenly over the peanut base layer in the pan. Use a spatula to spread it out smoothly.
6. Add Remaining Peanuts: Sprinkle the remaining 1½ cups of salted peanuts evenly over the top. Optionally, add a pinch of kosher or sea salt for enhanced flavor contrast.
7. Chill the Bars: Cover the pan with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the bars have fully set and firmed up.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Once set, cut the bars into squares. Serve them chilled for a firm, chewy texture or allow them to reach room temperature for a softer bite.

Notes

• Use salted peanuts with no skins for the best texture and flavor.
• Make sure to stir constantly during melting to avoid burning the butter and peanut butter chips.
• The marshmallows help bind the mixture and add sweetness and softness.
• Refrigeration time is important to achieve the proper firmness—do not skip chilling.
• For a nuttier flavor, try toasting the peanuts lightly before layering.
• Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: no bake dessert, peanut butter squares, payday candy bars, nutty snack bars, easy no bake recipe