Get ready to experience a mouthwatering explosion of flavors that will transform your ordinary dessert routine into an extraordinary culinary adventure! These Peanut Butter Rocky Road Squares are not just a treat; they're a decadent journey of creamy peanut butter, rich chocolate, crunchy nuts, and pillowy marshmallows that will have everyone begging for your secret recipe. Perfect for parties, midnight cravings, or when you simply want to elevate your sweet game, these squares are about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 squares
Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups chocolate chips
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts
Instructions
- Prepare a 9x9 inch baking pan by lining it completely with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter and peanut butter. Beat with an electric mixer until smooth and fully integrated, creating a creamy base.
- Gradually add powdered sugar to the butter-peanut butter mixture, mixing on low speed until a consistent dough forms. The mixture should be thick and slightly crumbly.
- Press the peanut butter mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan, creating a firm, compact base layer. Use the back of a spatula or clean hands to ensure an even surface.
- Melt chocolate chips using a double boiler or microwave, stirring frequently to prevent burning. If using microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval.
- Pour the melted chocolate evenly over the peanut butter base, using a spatula to spread it to the edges of the pan.
- Immediately sprinkle chopped nuts and mini marshmallows over the melted chocolate layer, creating a decorative and textured surface.
- Refrigerate the pan for approximately 1-2 hours, or until the chocolate has completely set and hardened.
- Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the entire dessert out of the pan and place on a cutting board.
- Cut into 16 equal squares using a sharp knife, cleaning the blade between cuts for neat edges.
- Store the squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Allow to sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving for optimal texture.
Tips
- Use room temperature butter and peanut butter for smoother mixing and easier incorporation of ingredients.
- For a more uniform chocolate layer, use high-quality chocolate chips and melt them slowly to prevent seizing.
- Line your pan with parchment paper for effortless removal and clean cutting.
- Allow the squares to set completely in the refrigerator for the best texture and cleanest cuts.
- For a gourmet twist, try using different types of nuts like almonds or pecans.
- If you prefer a softer texture, let the squares sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the marshmallows from becoming too hard.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 25mg
