NO BAKE PAYDAY NUT SQUARES

These No-Bake Payday Nut Squares combine layers of salted peanuts, creamy peanut butter, and gooey marshmallows for a treat that satisfies both sweet and salty cravings. Perfect for any occasion, they’re quick to prepare and packed with that classic nutty flavor.

Why You’ll Love It:

Easy and No-Bake: Forget the oven! These Payday Nut Squares require only a little stovetop work, making them quick and accessible for all skill levels.
Perfectly Balanced Sweet & Salty: With salted peanuts both on top and bottom, plus a creamy peanut butter filling, these bars strike the ultimate sweet-salty balance.
Candy-Bar Goodness at Home: Inspired by the classic Payday candy bar, these squares have all the nostalgic flavors but in a fresher, homemade form.
Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike love these treats. Perfect for gatherings, road trips, or as a make-ahead snack for the week.
Flexible Texture: Serve them chilled for a firm bite or at room temperature for a softer, chewier experience.

Key Ingredients:

Here’s a closer look at each ingredient to help you get the most out of your Payday Nut Squares!

Salted Peanuts

Using salted, skinless peanuts gives these bars their signature crunch and adds that savory touch that makes each bite so addictive. Split them into two batches: one for the base and one for the topping. If you’re avoiding extra salt, you could opt for unsalted peanuts, but don’t forget that pinch of kosher salt on top for a finishing touch!

Butter

A small amount of butter helps to create a smooth and glossy texture when melted with the peanut butter chips. Regular, salted butter works great here, enhancing the salty-sweet profile, but if you only have unsalted, that’ll do just fine.

Peanut Butter Chips

These are the secret ingredient that gives the bars a peanutty punch! They melt beautifully with the butter, creating a silky mixture that will later bind with the marshmallows for a smooth and chewy layer. You’ll find peanut butter chips in the baking aisle, typically near chocolate chips.

Sweetened Condensed Milk

This thick, sweet milk creates a rich and fudgy texture that complements the peanut flavor beautifully. It also helps bind the mixture, ensuring each square holds together with just the right amount of chew.

Miniature Marshmallows

The marshmallows give a soft, chewy texture that contrasts nicely with the crunchy peanuts. Be sure to stir them until fully melted and blended for a smooth and cohesive filling.

Kosher or Sea Salt (Optional)

If you love a little extra burst of saltiness, a light sprinkle of kosher or sea salt on top will give these bars a perfect, savory finish. Just a pinch makes all the difference, accentuating both the sweetness and nuttiness.

Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Grease the Pan: Start by greasing an 11″ x 7″ pan to prevent the nut squares from sticking.

Step 2: Layer the Peanuts

Spread Peanuts: Evenly spread 1½ cups of salted peanuts on the bottom of the pan. This creates a crunchy base for your nut squares.

Step 3: Melt Butter and Peanut Butter Chips

Melt the Mixture: In a large saucepan, combine the butter and peanut butter chips.
Heat Over Low: Melt them over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth, about 10 minutes. Keep the heat low to avoid burning the peanut butter chips.

Step 4: Add Sweetened Condensed Milk and Marshmallows

Mix Together: Once melted, remove the saucepan from heat.
Add Sweetened Condensed Milk and Marshmallows: Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and miniature marshmallows, mixing until the marshmallows are fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.

Step 5: Pour Peanut Butter Mixture

Pour the Mixture: Pour the peanut butter mixture over the peanut layer in the pan.
Spread Evenly: Use a spatula to spread it evenly over the peanuts.

Step 6: Add Remaining Peanuts

Top with Peanuts: Sprinkle the remaining 1½ cups of salted peanuts evenly on top of the peanut butter layer.
Optional: For a touch of saltiness, sprinkle with a pinch of kosher or sea salt.

Step 7: Chill the Bars

Chill and Set: Cover the pan and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Cut and Serve: Once set, cut the bars into squares. Serve chilled for a firm texture, or allow them to reach room temperature for a softer bite.

Serving Suggestions:

These Payday Nut Squares are delightful on their own, but here are a few ideas to elevate your treat game:

Drizzle with Chocolate: Melt some milk or dark chocolate and drizzle it over the cut squares for an extra layer of decadence.
Add a Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Pair with a Cold Glass of Milk or Hot Coffee: A tall glass of cold milk or a cozy cup of coffee pairs perfectly with the sweet and salty flavors.

For a complete dessert spread, serve these alongside other no-bake treats like No-Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies or Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips:

These bars are perfect for meal prep or making in advance:

Refrigeration: Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The fridge keeps them firm and chewy.
Freezing: If you’d like to store them longer, freeze the cut bars in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers. They’ll keep well for up to three months. Just let them thaw for a few minutes before eating.
Room Temperature Storage: For a softer texture, you can store the bars at room temperature for up to two days, provided they’re in a cool environment.

Variations:

Switch things up with these tasty variations and make the recipe your own!

Add a Chocolate Layer: Melt chocolate chips and spread them over the peanut layer before adding the peanut butter mixture for a chocolate-covered Payday bar vibe.
Make It Nut-Free: Substitute sunflower seed butter for peanut butter chips and roasted sunflower seeds for peanuts for a nut-free version.
Add Caramel Swirls: Add a few dollops of caramel sauce on top of the peanut butter layer before the final peanut topping for an extra touch of sweetness.
Try Different Nuts: Swap out the peanuts for cashews, almonds, or pecans for a different flavor. Just be sure they’re salted for that sweet-salty combo.
Use Crunchy Peanut Butter Chips: If you can find crunchy peanut butter chips, they add an extra layer of texture to each bite.

Conclusion:

These No-Bake Payday Nut Squares are a must-try for anyone who loves a good sweet-salty combo! With simple ingredients, no oven needed, and tons of room for customization, they’re perfect for all occasions. Whether you’re making them for a snack, a dessert, or just to satisfy that candy-bar craving, these nut squares are sure to hit the spot. Make a batch today, and get ready for everyone to ask for seconds!