I’m excited to share with you one of my favorite candy bar recipes – homemade Payday bars. These sweet and salty delights are easy to make and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. Let’s dive right into the recipe!
Can I use unsalted peanuts instead of salted dry roasted peanuts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use unsalted peanuts, but keep in mind that the saltiness from the salted peanuts adds to the flavor balance in the Payday candy bars. If you prefer less salt, you may want to add a pinch of salt to the marshmallow mixture to bring out the flavors.
Is it possible to make these bars vegan-friendly?
Absolutely! To make this recipe vegan-friendly, you can replace the butter with a plant-based alternative, use vegan marshmallows, and find a vegan sweetened condensed milk substitute. Also, ensure that your peanut butter baking chips are vegan.
Can I use a microwave instead of a saucepan to melt the marshmallow mixture?
Yes, you can use a microwave-safe bowl to melt the ingredients. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the mixture is smooth and well combined. However, be cautious not to overheat the mixture, as it may burn or become too thick.
How long do homemade Payday candy bars last, and how should I store them?
Homemade Payday candy bars can last up to two weeks when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Make sure to separate the layers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
My homemade Payday candy bars turned out too sticky. How can I fix this?
If your bars are too sticky, you can try reducing the amount of peanut butter baking chips and marshmallows in the recipe. Alternatively, you can also try refrigerating or freezing the bars to help them set better and become less sticky.
Can I add other ingredients to my homemade Payday candy bars, like chocolate or dried fruits?
Of course! Feel free to get creative and add ingredients like chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or chopped dates to the recipe. Just make sure to mix them into the marshmallow mixture evenly before pouring it over the peanuts.
Ingredients:
- 24 oz (680 g) salted dry roasted peanuts
- 3 cups (250 g) mini marshmallows
- 10 oz (283 g) peanut butter baking chips
- 4 tbsp (56 g) butter or margarine
- 14 oz (397 g) can sweetened condensed milk
Instructions:
- Prepare your baking dish by lining it with parchment paper and lightly spraying it with non-stick cooking spray. I used an 8×12-inch baking dish, but you can also use a 9×13-inch dish if you prefer.
- Spread a layer of salted dry roasted peanuts on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Make sure the layer is even, and set aside.
- In a saucepan over low heat, combine the peanut butter baking chips, butter or margarine, and sweetened condensed milk. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined. (Source: Ineskohl.info)
- Add the mini marshmallows to the saucepan and continue to cook, stirring frequently until the marshmallows are completely melted and incorporated into the mixture.
- Carefully pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the layer of peanuts in the baking dish. Make sure it is evenly distributed.
- Top the marshmallow mixture with another layer of salted dry roasted peanuts, pressing them gently into the mixture.
- Allow the Payday bars to cool at room temperature. Once cooled, you can place them in the refrigerator to set faster.
- When the bars have set, lift the parchment paper from the baking dish and transfer it onto a cutting board. Cut the bars into desired sizes.
- If desired, you can roll the edges of the bars in additional chopped peanuts to add texture and a more professional look.
- Serve and enjoy your homemade Payday candy bars! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Conclusion: These homemade Payday candy bars are a delightful combination of sweet and salty flavors, perfect for satisfying your cravings. While they may be a bit sticky, they are certainly delicious! Feel free to tweak the recipe as needed to achieve your desired consistency.