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Introduction
If you love the combination of salty peanuts and sweet caramel, then you’re in for a treat with these Homemade Payday Chocolate Bars! Inspired by the classic candy bar, this homemade version takes things up a notch by adding a luscious chocolate layer, creating the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re making them for a party, a gift, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, these bars are easy to prepare and utterly delicious.
Ingredients
For the Peanut Layer:
2 cups salted peanuts (divided)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cups mini marshmallows
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 bag (10 oz) peanut butter chips
For the Caramel Layer:
1 cup soft caramel candies (unwrapped)
2 tablespoons heavy cream
For the Chocolate Coating (Optional but recommended):
1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable shortening
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Base
Line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
Spread half of the salted peanuts evenly across the bottom of the pan.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Peanut Butter Mixture
In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and peanut butter chips together, stirring until smooth.
Add the sweetened condensed milk and marshmallows, stirring continuously until everything is fully melted and combined.
Pour this mixture over the peanuts in the baking dish, spreading evenly.
Step 3: Add the Caramel Layer
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the caramel candies with the heavy cream in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.
Drizzle the caramel over the peanut butter layer.
Step 4: Add the Top Layer of Peanuts
Sprinkle the remaining salted peanuts on top, gently pressing them down to adhere.
Let the bars cool at room temperature for about an hour or refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 5: Coat with Chocolate (Optional)
Melt the chocolate chips with the coconut oil in the microwave, stirring every 20 seconds until smooth.
Dip each bar into the melted chocolate or drizzle it over the top for a decorative touch.
Let the chocolate set before cutting into bars.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving: These bars taste best at room temperature, allowing the caramel and peanut butter layers to be soft and chewy.
Storage: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or refrigerate for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
Variations<!--nextpage-->Dark Chocolate Twist: Swap the semi-sweet chocolate for dark chocolate to enhance the contrast between sweet and salty.
Crunchy Pretzel Addition: Add crushed pretzels on top of the peanut layer for extra crunch.
Nut Butter Alternative: Use almond or cashew butter instead of peanut butter for a unique flavor profile.
Sea Salt Sprinkle: Enhance the flavors by sprinkling flaky sea salt on top of the chocolate coating.
FAQ
1. Can I use unsalted peanuts instead?
Yes, but you may want to add a pinch of salt to the peanut butter mixture for that signature salty-sweet balance.
2. What can I use instead of marshmallows?
You can substitute them with ½ cup of honey or corn syrup to maintain the chewy texture.
3. How do I prevent the bars from sticking to the pan?
Lining the pan with parchment paper and greasing it slightly ensures easy removal.
4. Can I make these bars vegan?
Yes! Use dairy-free chocolate, vegan caramel, and substitute coconut condensed milk for a plant-based version.
5. Do these taste exactly like Payday bars?
They have a similar sweet and salty profile but with a richer and creamier texture, thanks to the homemade ingredients.
With their addictive blend of peanuts, caramel, and chocolate, these Homemade Payday Chocolate Bars will quickly become a favorite treat in your household. Give them a try and enjoy every delicious bite! 🍫🥜
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