Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares are a dreamy blend of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate that bring a bit of Disney magic right into my kitchen. Inspired by the beloved treat served at Disneyland’s bakeries, these no-bake dessert bars are thick, indulgent, and absolutely unforgettable.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how these bars perfectly balance salty-sweet peanut butter with smooth chocolate on top. They’re simple to make, don’t require baking, and taste just like the ones I remember from Main Street, U.S.A. I can whip up a batch with pantry staples and they always disappear fast—whether I’m sharing with friends or treating myself.
Ingredients
(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Creamy peanut butter
- Unsalted butter, softened
- Powdered sugar
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
- Optional: vanilla extract, sea salt for topping
Directions
- I line an 8x8-inch or 9x9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, I mix the softened butter and peanut butter until smooth and creamy.
- I stir in the powdered sugar and graham cracker crumbs until the mixture is fully combined and forms a thick dough.
- I press the peanut butter mixture evenly into the prepared dish, smoothing the surface.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, I melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
- I pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- I chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate is set and the bars are firm.
- Once set, I lift them out using the parchment and cut into squares.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 16 squares and takes around 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 2 hours of chill time. I like to make them ahead so they’re ready to slice and serve when the craving hits.
Variations
- I sometimes swirl in a bit of marshmallow fluff for a fluffernutter-inspired twist.
- For crunch, I use chunky peanut butter or stir in crushed pretzels.
- I’ve topped the chocolate layer with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, chopped peanuts, or mini Reese’s pieces for extra flair.
- For a gluten-free version, I swap the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs or oat flour.
Storage/Reheating
I store these bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. They also freeze well—just wrap them tightly and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When I want to serve them, I let them thaw at room temperature for about 15–20 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter?
I’ve tried it, but natural peanut butter can be too runny and may not set as firmly. I stick with a no-stir, creamy version for the best results.
Why are they called Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares?
They’re inspired by the famous peanut butter-chocolate treats sold at Disneyland’s bakeries—especially the ones from Pooh Corner and Candy Palace. This homemade version tastes just like the original.
Can I use almond or sunflower seed butter instead?
Yes, I’ve used both as substitutions for peanut butter, especially for allergy-friendly versions. The texture stays close, and the flavor is still rich and delicious.
How do I keep the chocolate layer from cracking when cutting?
I let the bars sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before slicing, and I use a sharp knife warmed under hot water, wiped dry between cuts.
Do I need to bake the crust?
No baking needed—this recipe is fully no-bake, which makes it even easier and faster to prepare.
Conclusion
Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares are a nostalgic treat that bring back sweet memories with every bite. They’re rich, creamy, and ridiculously easy to make. Whether I’m recreating some Disney magic at home or just looking for a no-bake dessert that never fails, these bars are always a winner in my kitchen.
Print
Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (no-bake)
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (includes chilling)
- Yield: 16 squares
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares are rich, no-bake dessert bars inspired by the classic Disney treat. Made with creamy peanut butter, graham cracker crumbs, and a luscious chocolate topping, these nostalgic bars are easy to prepare and perfect for recreating Disney magic at home.
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1½ cups semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
- Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, flaky sea salt for topping
Instructions
- Line an 8x8-inch or 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides.
- In a large bowl, mix peanut butter and softened butter until smooth.
- Stir in powdered sugar and graham cracker crumbs until fully combined and dough-like.
- Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the surface.
- Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Pour melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer and spread evenly.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, until chocolate is set.
- Lift out of the pan and cut into 16 squares before serving.
Notes
- For texture, use chunky peanut butter or mix in crushed pretzels.
- Add marshmallow fluff for a fluffernutter-style bar.
- Top with flaky sea salt, chopped nuts, or Reese’s pieces for extra flavor and crunch.
- Use gluten-free graham crackers for a GF version.
- Let bars sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before slicing to prevent cracking.
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