Payday Peanut Squares are my absolute favorite no-bake treat when I’m craving something sweet and salty! These delicious bars remind me of the classic candy bar but taste even better homemade. I love making these when friends come over because they always disappear in minutes. The combination of crunchy peanuts and gooey marshmallow filling is seriously irresistible. Trust me, these squares will become your new go-to dessert!

What is a Payday Peanut Square?

Payday Peanut Squares are homemade treats inspired by the popular Payday candy bar. They feature a sweet, chewy center made with marshmallows, peanut butter, and condensed milk, surrounded by crunchy roasted peanuts on both sides. I think these homemade squares are even tastier than the original candy! The texture contrast between the smooth filling and crunchy peanuts makes each bite absolutely perfect.

Ingredients

4 cups roasted or honey roasted peanuts
1 can sweetened condensed milk (14oz)
1 package mini marshmallows (10-12oz)
1 package peanut butter chips (10oz)
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/2 cup butter

How to Make Payday Peanut Squares

First, I line a 13 x 9 inch baking dish with foil and spray it with cooking spray.
Then I sprinkle 2 cups of peanuts evenly on the bottom of the dish.
In a medium to large saucepan, I combine the sweetened condensed milk, marshmallows, peanut butter chips, butter, and peanut butter.
I cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently until everything is melted and smooth. (Be careful not to scorch the bottom!)
For the best results, I heat the mixture to 235°F using a candy thermometer to make sure it sets properly.
Next, I pour this gooey mixture over the peanuts in the baking dish.
I spread it out evenly with a spatula.
Then I sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of peanuts over the top and gently press them down. I like to place parchment paper between my hands and the peanuts to avoid sticky fingers!
Finally, I cover the dish and refrigerate for at least an hour until firm.
Once chilled, I lift the foil out of the pan. Sometimes I flip the whole thing onto parchment paper and then peel off the foil.
Last step – cutting into squares and trying not to eat them all at once!

Can You Freeze Payday Peanut Squares?

Yes! Payday Peanut Squares freeze beautifully. I often make a double batch and freeze half for later. Just place the cut squares in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. When I’m ready to enjoy them, I just let them thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours. Sometimes I even eat them slightly frozen – they’re like a chewy peanut butter ice cream bar!

How to Store Payday Peanut Squares?

I store my Payday Peanut Squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for about a week (if they last that long!). Make sure to place parchment paper between layers if you’re stacking them to prevent sticking. At room temperature, these squares can get a bit soft, especially in warm weather, so I prefer keeping them chilled.

Recipe Substitutions for Payday Peanut Squares

If you can’t find peanut butter chips, white chocolate chips work great too!
I’ve used crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy for extra texture.
Honey roasted peanuts give a sweeter flavor, while regular roasted peanuts provide more of that classic salty-sweet balance.
For a different twist, try adding 1/2 cup of caramel bits to the marshmallow mixture.
Almond or cashew butter can replace peanut butter if you have allergies.

Tips for Making These Homemade Payday Peanut Squares

Using a candy thermometer helps ensure the perfect consistency – I learned this the hard way!
Spraying your knife with cooking spray makes cutting the squares much cleaner.
I find that letting the squares chill overnight gives them the best texture.
For neater squares, I trim the edges before cutting into portions.
Payday Peanut Squares make amazing gifts! I wrap them individually in wax paper and pack them in cute tins.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are my Payday Peanut Squares too soft?

You might not have heated the mixture to the right temperature. I always use a candy thermometer to reach 235°F for that perfect chewy texture.

Can I use natural peanut butter?

I’ve tried it, and regular commercial peanut butter works better because the oils don’t separate. The natural kind can make the squares oily.

How do I prevent the peanuts from falling off?

Make sure to press them firmly into the warm mixture. I place parchment paper over the top and press down evenly with my palms.

Can I add chocolate to these?

Absolutely! Sometimes I drizzle melted chocolate over the top after they’ve set. It’s like a Payday meets a Snickers bar!

How far ahead can I make these for a party?

I often make Payday Peanut Squares 2-3 days before an event. They actually taste better after the flavors have had time to meld together!