Irresistible Salted Peanut Chews Recipe

Crave a quick, crowd-pleasing treat? Make these Salted Peanut Chews with just 7 ingredients! Peanut butter crust + marshmallow layer + crunchy peanut topping. Perfect for potlucks, gifts, or sweet cravings!

Ingredients

(Makes 36 bars)

Tools Needed

• 13×9-inch baking pan
• Cooking spray
• Large bowl + spatula
• 4-quart saucepan
• Parchment paper (for easy removal)

Step-by-Step Instructions

(Total time: 1 hour, including chilling)

1. Prep & Bake Crust

→ Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray the bottom only of a 13×9-inch pan with cooking spray.
→ In a large bowl, combine cookie mix, oil, water, and egg. Stir until a soft dough forms.
→ Press dough evenly into the pan using floured fingers or a spatula.
→ Bake 12-15 minutes until edges are golden. Do not overbake!

2. Marshmallow Layer

→ Immediately sprinkle marshmallows over the hot crust. Return to oven for 1-2 minutes until puffed (not melted flat!).

3. Make Peanut Topping

→ In a 4-quart saucepan, combine corn syrup, butter, vanilla, and peanut butter chips.
→ Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until smooth (3-4 mins).
→ Remove from heat. Quickly stir in cereal and peanuts until coated.

4. Assemble & Chill

→ Immediately spread topping over marshmallows. Press lightly with a greased spatula.
→ Refrigerate 30 minutes (or freeze 15 mins) until firm.
→ Cut into 36 bars (9 rows x 4 rows).

🌟 Pro Tips for Success

• CRUST PERFECTION: For extra flavor, add ¼ tsp cinnamon to the cookie dough.
• MARSHMALLOW HACK: Use kitchen shears to snip sticky topping spreads.
• CRUNCH PRESERVATION: Store bars in an airtight container with parchment layers.
• UPGRADE: Drizzle melted chocolate over chilled bars before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use homemade cookie dough?
A: Yes! Substitute 2 cups peanut butter cookie dough (rolled into crumbs) for the mix.

Q: How do I prevent sticky cutting?
A: Chill bars until FIRM. Dip knife in hot water and wipe between cuts.

Q: Can I use natural peanut butter?
A: Avoid natural PB (it separates). Stick to commercial peanut butter chips.

Q: How long do these bars last?
A: 1 week at room temp (covered), or freeze 3 months.

Q: Can I omit peanuts for allergies?
A: Replace peanuts with toasted pumpkin seeds or omit entirely.

Serving & Storage

• Serve: Room temperature or chilled.
• Pair with: Cold milk, coffee, or vanilla ice cream!
• Gift idea: Stack in clear bags tied with twine.