Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares Recipe
If you have a sweet tooth and a love for nostalgic treats, the Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares Recipe is exactly what you need. This delightful dessert perfectly balances the creamy richness of peanut butter with the satisfying crunch of graham crackers and the deep, luscious flavor of chocolate. Each bite offers layers of buttery goodness and melt-in-your-mouth sweetness that feels like a warm hug from your favorite theme park. Ready to bring a bit of that Disneyland magic into your kitchen? Let’s dive in and make these irresistible squares that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential to capture the authentic taste and texture of this beloved treat. Each component adds a unique touch, whether it’s the smooth peanut butter, the subtle crunch of graham crackers, or the creamy, glossy chocolate topping that ties it all together.
- Graham cracker sheets: Provide that classic, crispy base and final layer that adds a delightful crunch.
- Creamy peanut butter: Creates the rich, velvety filling that makes these squares so addictive.
- Butter, softened: Adds a smooth mouthfeel and richness to the peanut butter mixture.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with warm, sweet notes.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness with a subtle hint of savory depth.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the peanut butter filling for the perfect consistency.
- Shortening: Ensures the melted chocolate stays glossy and pourable for nice, even layers.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Bring that rich, chocolatey top layer that perfectly complements the peanut butter.
How to Make Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Start by giving your 9×13-inch glass baking dish a good spray with non-stick spray. This simple step guarantees your luscious squares will come out clean and intact, making serving and cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Crush the Graham Crackers
Place 2 graham cracker sheets inside a Ziploc bag and crush them gently into crumbs using a rolling pin or your hands. These crumbs will add texture and be used as a beautiful topping for the finished dessert.
Step 3: Mix the Peanut Butter Filling
In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of creamy peanut butter with the softened butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add 3½ cups of powdered sugar, stirring until you achieve a thick, smooth mixture that’s easy to flatten into the dish—this is the heart of the squares.
Step 4: Melt the Chocolate
Microwave 4 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips together with 4 tablespoons of shortening in 30-second bursts. Stir well between intervals to achieve a glossy, smooth chocolate perfect for layering.
Step 5: Layer the Graham Crackers and Chocolate
Lay 6 full graham cracker sheets on the bottom of your prepared dish. Spread one-third of the melted chocolate evenly over this crunchy base to infuse it with rich flavor and a silky texture.
Step 6: Add the Peanut Butter Layer
Flatten the peanut butter mixture into patties or an even layer that fits snugly over the chocolate-covered graham crackers. Cover every corner for that perfect mix of flavors in every bite.
Step 7: Apply the Second Chocolate Layer
Spread another one-third of the melted chocolate on top of the peanut butter layer. This layer acts as a delicious barrier between the peanut butter and the final graham cracker layer.
Step 8: Finish with Remaining Graham Crackers and Chocolate
Add the final 6 graham cracker sheets on top, then spread the remaining chocolate evenly across them. Finally, sprinkle the crushed graham cracker crumbs from earlier over the chocolate top for a pretty and tasty finish.
Step 9: Chill Before Serving
Refrigerate your masterpiece for at least one hour. This chilling step helps everything set perfectly so when you cut into squares, each piece holds together beautifully and tastes like pure magic.
How to Serve Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares Recipe
Garnishes
These squares are stunning on their own, but you can elevate them with a light dusting of cocoa powder, a drizzle of melted white chocolate, or even a sprinkle of chopped peanuts for added crunch and flair.
Side Dishes
Pair your squares with a cold glass of milk or a cozy cup of coffee or tea. For a party spread, consider serving them alongside fresh strawberries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a wonderful flavor contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the squares into bite-sized pieces and serve them on decorative trays with colorful napkins for an inviting snack setup. You could also stack them on a tiered dessert stand for a charming display that’s perfect for gatherings or celebrations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once made, keep any leftover Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares in an airtight container in the fridge. They stay fresh and delicious for up to a week, giving you plenty of time to enjoy every last bite.
Freezing
If you want to save these treats for longer, wrap the squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze beautifully for up to 2 months without losing their texture or flavor.
Reheating
These squares are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer them a bit softer, let them sit out for 10-15 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it can change the texture and cause the chocolate to melt unevenly.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Definitely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a little extra texture to the filling, which some people love. Just make sure it’s well mixed for a consistent spread.
Is there a substitute for shortening in the chocolate layer?
You can use coconut oil as a healthier alternative. It will also help the chocolate stay shiny and smooth, though it may add a subtle coconut flavor.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
Yes, swap the butter for a plant-based margarine and use dairy-free chocolate chips to make these squares friendly for vegan or dairy-free diets.
What’s the best way to cut the squares cleanly?
Use a sharp, warm knife—run it under hot water, dry it quickly, then cut. This prevents the chocolate from cracking and makes prettier edges.
Can I halve the recipe for a smaller batch?
Absolutely! Just halve all the ingredients and use a smaller pan like an 8×8-inch dish. Adjust chilling time accordingly since the layers will be thinner.
Final Thoughts
The Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares Recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s a nostalgic bite of happiness you can create at home any time you crave something unique and delicious. Whether you’re making it for a party, a cozy night in, or a sweet gift, this recipe is sure to become a treasured favorite. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make these squares again and again to share the magic with everyone you love.
Print
Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
Description
Delicious Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares featuring layers of graham crackers, creamy peanut butter filling, and rich chocolate topping. This no-bake treat is perfect for parties and easy to make in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Base Layer
- 14 whole graham cracker sheets
Peanut Butter Filling
- 2 cups creamy peanut butter
- 8 tablespoons (1 stick) butter, softened
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3½ cups powdered sugar
Chocolate Topping
- 4 tablespoons shortening
- 4 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prep Pan: Spray a 9×13-inch glass baking dish with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Crush Grahams: Place 2 graham cracker sheets into a Ziploc bag and crush into fine crumbs; set aside for topping.
- Peanut Butter Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Gradually add the powdered sugar while mixing until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and shortening. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
- First Layer: Lay 6 whole graham cracker sheets flat in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread one-third of the melted chocolate mixture evenly over the graham crackers.
- PB Layer: Flatten the peanut butter mixture into patty shapes and layer them evenly over the chocolate-covered graham crackers, ensuring full coverage.
- Second Chocolate Layer: Spread another one-third of the melted chocolate evenly over the peanut butter layer.
- Final Layers: Place the remaining 6 graham cracker sheets on top. Pour the remaining chocolate over the top layer and sprinkle the crushed graham cracker crumbs evenly over the chocolate.
- Chill: Refrigerate the assembled squares for at least 1 hour or until the chocolate is set and the dessert is firm. Once chilled, cut into 24 squares and serve.
Notes
- Use a 9×13-inch glass dish for best results.
- Ensure the peanut butter mixture is well combined for smooth texture.
- Chilling time can be extended for firmer slices.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Shortening helps the chocolate topping stay glossy and smooth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (melting chocolate and assembling)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
