Description
Delightful and nostalgic Disneyland-inspired Peanut Butter Squares consisting of layers of crunchy graham crackers, creamy peanut butter filling, and rich semi-sweet chocolate, all finished with a sprinkle of crushed graham cracker crumbs. Perfect as a sweet treat for parties or any time you crave a classic peanut butter chocolate dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Base and Topping
- 14 whole graham cracker sheets
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3½ cups powdered sugar
- 4 tablespoons shortening
- 4 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Peanut Butter Mixture
- 2 cups creamy peanut butter
- 8 tablespoons butter, softened
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Dish: Spray a 9×13-inch glass baking dish with non-stick spray to prevent sticking and ease removal of the finished squares.
- Crush Graham Crackers: Place 2 whole graham cracker sheets inside a Ziploc bag and crush them into fine crumbs using a meat mallet or the bottom of a glass. Set these crumbs aside for topping later.
- Make Peanut Butter Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, softened butter, vanilla, and salt. Gradually add the powdered sugar in small increments, mixing thoroughly to create a thick, spreadable peanut butter mixture.
- Melt Chocolate Layer: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and shortening. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. Be careful to avoid overheating.
- Assemble First Layer: Arrange 6 whole graham cracker sheets at the bottom of the prepared baking dish forming an even base layer.
- First Chocolate Layer: Pour about one-third of the melted chocolate evenly over the graham cracker base to create a thin chocolate layer.
- Add Peanut Butter Layer: Using your hands, take fistfuls of the peanut butter mixture and flatten them into rough squares. Carefully arrange this peanut butter layer over the chocolate, covering as much surface as possible without breaking the crackers below. Use all of the peanut butter mixture.
- Second Chocolate Layer and Graham Crackers: Pour another one-third of the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer. Then lay down another 6 graham cracker sheets evenly on top. Finish by pouring the remaining chocolate on top of these crackers.
- Top with Crumbs: Sprinkle the reserved crushed graham cracker crumbs evenly over the final chocolate layer for added texture and decoration.
- Chill and Cut: Refrigerate the dish for at least 1 hour to allow the layers to set firmly. Once chilled, cut into 24 squares of your preferred size and serve.
Notes
- Use creamy peanut butter for the smoothest texture; natural peanut butter may alter consistency.
- Softened butter makes mixing easier; do not melt it.
- Chocolate and shortening mixture helps the chocolate layer stay smooth and glossy.
- Be cautious when melting chocolate in the microwave to prevent burning.
- Store these squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
