Description
Enjoy these No-Bake Payday Nut Squares, a delicious blend of peanut butter, honey, and chocolate. Quick and easy to prepare, they make for a perfect snack or dessert without the need for baking!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup unsalted peanuts, roasted and unsalted
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup honey
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and honey. Microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until warm and easier to mix. Stir until completely combined.
- Add the vanilla extract and salt, stirring until well incorporated. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.
- Add the rolled oats and mix until fully coated with the peanut butter and honey mixture.
- If using, fold in the chopped pecans and shredded coconut until evenly distributed.
- Finally, fold in the roasted peanuts until evenly mixed throughout the batter.
- Grab an 8×8 inch or 9×9 inch square baking pan. Optionally, line with parchment paper for easier removal.
- Lightly grease the pan with cooking spray or a thin layer of coconut oil to prevent sticking.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan, pressing it down firmly with a spatula or your hands to ensure its compacted and evenly spread.
- Cover the pan with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to retain moisture while chilling.
- Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or in the freezer for about 30-45 minutes if you’re in a hurry.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, add the chocolate chips.
- Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat.
- Let the melted chocolate cool slightly before pouring it over the chilled nut mixture.
- Remove the pan from the refrigerator. If using parchment paper, lift the mixture out for easier cutting.
- Pour the melted chocolate over the top of the nut mixture, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Optionally, sprinkle additional chopped peanuts or sea salt on top of the chocolate before it sets.
Notes
- For a nut-free version, substitute the peanuts and pecans with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
- Store the squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes