Decadent Peanut Butter Chocolate Squares
Indulge in these delicious Decadent Peanut Butter Chocolate Squares, a rich treat that combines the irresistible flavors of creamy peanut butter and smooth chocolate. This recipe has been a family favorite for nearly two decades, and it’s sure to become yours too! Using classic brands like Jif or Skippy for peanut butter ensures a luscious texture, helping to create a perfect harmony between sweet and savory. The simplicity of the steps makes this dessert ideal for both novice and experienced bakers alike. These squares are perfect for parties, school events, or simply satisfying your sweet cravings. Once you make them, you'll quickly realize why they’ve been loved for so long!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Creamy Peanut Butter
2 cups (None)
Margarine or Unsalted Butter
1/2 cup (Softened)
Powdered Sugar
2 3/4 cups (Sifted)
Chocolate Chips
12 ounces (None)
Margarine or Butter
1 tablespoon (Melted)
Instructions
1
In a mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, 1/2 cup margarine (or butter), and powdered sugar.
2
Using a pastry blender, mix the ingredients together until fully combined to form a thick dough. If necessary, knead the mixture by hand to ensure a uniform texture. Avoid using a mixer to maintain the desired consistency.
3
Prepare a 13x9x2 inch pan by lining it with aluminum foil and lightly greasing the foil with butter.
4
Spread the peanut butter mixture into the prepared pan using your buttered hands, pressing it evenly into the corners.
5
In a double boiler over simmering water, melt 12 ounces of chocolate chips with 1 tablespoon of margarine (or butter). Be careful to avoid any water coming into contact with the chocolate, as it can cause it to seize.
6
Stir the chocolate mixture continuously until it is completely melted and glossy.
7
Immediately pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
8
Allow the chocolate to cool and set slightly before cutting into squares. For easier cutting, use a pizza cutter as suggested by a family member.
9
Once cut, store the squares in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for freshness.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Decadent Peanut Butter Chocolate Squares?
They are a rich, no-bake treat that combines creamy peanut butter and smooth chocolate layers, a family favorite for nearly twenty years.
How many ingredients are needed for this recipe?
This recipe requires 5 main ingredients: creamy peanut butter, margarine or butter, powdered sugar, chocolate chips, and a small amount of additional butter for melting.
What kind of peanut butter works best for these squares?
Classic brands like Jif or Skippy are recommended to ensure a luscious texture and a perfect balance of sweet and savory.
Can I use a stand mixer to combine the peanut butter base?
No, it is recommended to use a pastry blender or your hands to avoid over-mixing and to maintain the desired thick dough consistency.
How should I prepare the pan?
Line a 13x9x2 inch pan with aluminum foil and lightly grease the foil with butter for easy removal.
What is the recommended pan size?
A standard 13x9x2 inch baking pan is the ideal size for this recipe.
Should I use butter or margarine?
The recipe works well with either margarine or unsalted butter, depending on your preference.
How do I melt the chocolate topping?
Melt 12 ounces of chocolate chips with 1 tablespoon of margarine in a double boiler over simmering water.
Why shouldn't water touch the melting chocolate?
If water comes into contact with the chocolate while melting, it can cause the chocolate to seize and become grainy.
How do I get a smooth chocolate finish?
Stir the chocolate mixture continuously while it is in the double boiler until it is completely melted and glossy.
What is the best way to cut the squares?
Using a pizza cutter is a helpful family tip for getting clean, even slices through the chocolate and peanut butter layers.
Is this a no-bake recipe?
Yes, this is a no-bake dessert recipe that only requires melting chocolate on the stovetop.
How should I store these squares?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
How much peanut butter is required?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of creamy peanut butter.
Can I use natural peanut butter?
While you can, the recipe suggests using processed brands like Jif or Skippy for the best creamy texture.
How much powdered sugar is in the recipe?
You will need 2 and 3/4 cups of powdered sugar.
Do I need to sift the powdered sugar?
Yes, the ingredient list specifies using sifted powdered sugar for a smoother dough.
What kind of chocolate chips should I use?
You can use 12 ounces of your favorite chocolate chips, though semi-sweet is traditional for this type of candy.
How long has this recipe been around?
This specific recipe has been a family favorite for nearly two decades.
Can I knead the dough by hand?
Yes, if the pastry blender doesn't fully combine the ingredients, kneading by hand is encouraged to ensure a uniform texture.
Is it necessary to grease the foil?
Yes, lightly greasing the aluminum foil with butter ensures the squares don't stick when you try to remove them.
Should the butter for the base be softened?
Yes, the 1/2 cup of margarine or butter used in the dough should be softened for easier mixing.
Can kids help make this?
Absolutely! Pressing the dough into the pan with buttered hands is a fun step for children to help with.
Is a double boiler necessary?
A double boiler is recommended to gently melt the chocolate without burning it, but any heat-safe bowl over simmering water will work.
How do I spread the dough evenly?
The recipe suggests using buttered hands to press the mixture evenly into the corners of the pan.
What is the texture of the peanut butter layer?
The mixture forms a thick, uniform dough that is both sweet and savory.
Can I refrigerate these squares?
Yes, they can be stored in the refrigerator if you prefer a firmer, chilled treat.
Are these good for school events?
Yes, they are ideal for parties, school events, and sweet cravings due to their easy preparation and popularity.
Do I need to preheat the oven?
No, because this is a no-bake recipe, no oven preheating is required.
When should I spread the chocolate?
Immediately after the chocolate is melted and glossy, pour it over the peanut butter layer and spread with a spatula.