Pin it
Take ordinary cookie batter to the next level with this mouthwatering snack that brings together soft, gooey goodness and the unbeatable combo of peanut butter with chocolate. These melt-in-your-mouth squares pack creamy peanut butter, tiny Reese's cups, and chocolate morsels for a mouthwatering sweet that's way simpler than rolling individual cookies.
When I whipped these squares up for the first time, my home was filled with such a tempting smell that everyone came rushing into the kitchen. They've now become our favorite treat to bring to community events and family reunions.
Complete Ingredients Breakdown
- Standard smooth peanut butter: Gives just the right consistency
- Pale brown sugar: Makes for tender, chewy squares
- Small Reese's cups: Spread nicely throughout the mix
- Tiny chocolate chips: Blend wonderfully into each portion
- Good butter: Forms a tasty base
- Real vanilla extract: Boosts the whole flavor profile
Crafting Irresistible Squares
- Butter Mixing:
- Combine melted butter with sugars until thoroughly blended.
- Peanut Blending:
- Stir in smooth peanut butter for a creamy mix.
- Flour Combining:
- Mix flour blend gently to keep softness.
- Candy Adding:
- Scatter treats uniformly throughout the dough.
- Top Decorating:
- Push extra goodies lightly into the top layer.
Pin it
My kids especially enjoy pushing the extra Reese's cups onto the top. Seeing their joy as the squares bake has turned into one of our cherished baking moments together.
Perfect Baking Technique
Getting that amazing texture depends on the right oven heat and cooking time. Watch for golden edges with a slightly soft middle part.
Smart Ingredient Choices
Going with standard smooth peanut butter instead of the natural kind makes sure your bars set up right and have the best feel.
Smart Tray Setup
Using parchment paper in your tray makes getting the bars out and cutting them so much easier.
Keeping Them Fresh
They'll stay tasty in a sealed container for about three days on your counter. Put them in the fridge for up to a week. Wrap pieces separately and freeze them for up to two months.
Pin it
After making these squares tons of times, I've learned that waiting patiently while they cool is crucial for the best texture. This chocolate and peanut butter mix creates such a tempting treat that they're always the first to vanish at any party.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I choose different Reese’s types?
- Absolutely, any style works! Chop up bigger ones if needed. Mix white chocolate Reese’s with regular for something new.
- → Why is cooling so important?
- It helps the bars firm up so you can cut them nicely. If they’re warm, they might break apart and be too soft.
- → Can mix-ins be switched up?
- Sure thing! Add in shredded coconut, nuts, or different chips. Just stick to about 2.5 cups total to avoid overloading.
- → Is freezing an option?
- Yep! Slice into squares first, wrap them tight, and freeze for up to 3 months. Let them thaw before eating.
- → Do I really need parchment paper?
- It’s super helpful! Makes pulling the batch out for slicing smooth and mess-free, no extra grease required.