Peanut Butter Mallow Bars

These peanut butter mallow bars are perfect for when you need a quick, indulgent treat that feels like a celebration in every bite. The combination of creamy peanut butter, sweet marshmallows, and crunchy Nutter Butter cookies makes this an easy go-to for dessert or snack time.

I first made this after wanting something sweet and nutty without turning on the oven on a summer day. It quickly became a crowd-pleaser during casual get-togethers.

Ingredients

• Butter: softened for greasing to ensure easy removal and no sticking
• Sweetened condensed milk: adds creamy sweetness as the dessert’s base choose well-sealed cans for freshness
• Smooth peanut butter: for richness natural peanut butter may change texture so creamy store-bought works best
• Peanut butter baking chips: melt smoothly and intensify that peanut flavor
• Pure vanilla extract: enhances the sweetness and rounds the flavors
• Nutter Butter cookies: add delightful crunch and peanut taste pick cookies that are fresh with no signs of staleness
• Miniature marshmallows: bring that soft chewy contrast and a touch of sweetness that stays in pockets throughout
• Chopped salted peanuts: add texture and a slight saltiness which balances the sugar nicely roasted and unsalted can be used to adjust salt

Instructions

Build The Prep:

Lightly butter an 8 by 8-inch pan focusing on the bottom and sides so the bars come out cleanly. This prevents sticking and helps with easy slicing later.

Melt Together Peanut Butter And Condensed Milk:

Place sweetened condensed milk and peanut butter in a heavy bottom saucepan over medium low heat. Stir constantly for 8 to 10 minutes until fully combined and starting to bubble gently. This slow heating lets the mixture thicken slightly and develop a rich flavor without burning.

Add Vanilla And Chips:

Remove the pan from heat and stir in the pure vanilla extract for flavor depth. Immediately add the peanut butter baking chips and stir until they melt completely creating a smooth creamy texture.

Mix In Cookies And Marshmallows:

Fold the chopped Nutter Butter cookies and miniature marshmallows into the mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly to spread out the crunch and sweetness. Do not overmix as some marshmallows should remain whole for texture.

Spread And Top:

Quickly pour and spread the mixture evenly into the prepared pan using a spatula. While still warm sprinkle the chopped salted peanuts evenly over the top so they stick as the bars cool.

Chill And Slice:

Place the pan in the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours or until set firmly. After chilling cut into squares of your preferred size. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to keep the bars firm and fresh.

My favorite ingredient has to be the Nutter Butter cookies. Their peanut taste and crunch lift the bars to another level. I remember making these bars every holiday and savoring how the marshmallows melted just enough while keeping their chew. It’s a comfort dessert that consistently brings smiles.

Storage Tips

Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them firm and fresh. They last for about a week chilled making them a handy ready treat. To soften before serving let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes which brings out the gooey texture.

Ingredient Swaps

Peanut butter chips can be substituted with white chocolate or butterscotch chips if you want a different sweet note. Try almond butter instead of peanut butter for a milder nut flavor or sunflower seed butter if there are peanut allergies. Regular graham crackers can replace Nutter Butter cookies but the peanut flavor will be less pronounced.

Serving Ideas

Serve these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra decadent dessert. Cut into small bite-sized pieces and serve on a platter for parties and gatherings. Pair with a cold glass of milk or a cup of black coffee to balance the sweetness.

This recipe is a quick and fuss-free dessert perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the sweet and salty combination with ease.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ How do I prevent the peanut butter mixture from sticking while cooking?

Stir constantly over medium-low heat to prevent sticking and ensure the mixture heats evenly without burning.

→ Can I substitute the Nutter Butter cookies with other types?

Yes, other crunchy cookies like graham crackers or shortbread can work well for texture and flavor variation.

→ Why is chilling important before cutting the bars?

Chilling helps the mixture firm up, making the bars easier to cut and hold their shape when served.

→ What’s the purpose of salted peanuts on top?

Salted peanuts add a contrasting savory crunch that balances the sweetness and enhances overall texture.

→ How can I make cutting easier?

Line the pan with parchment paper before adding the mixture to help lift the bars out for cleaner slicing.