Peanut Butter & Marshmallow Popcorn Bars

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that combines the delightful crunch of popcorn with the creamy richness of peanut butter and the gooey sweetness of marshmallows, you’ve come to the right place! These Peanut Butter & Marshmallow Popcorn Bars are a perfect blend of textures and flavors, making them an irresistible snack for kids and adults alike. Whether you’re prepping for movie night, a picnic, or simply craving something sweet, these bars are your go-to recipe. Let’s dive into why you’ll fall in love with these treats and how to make them from scratch!

Reasons to Love Peanut Butter & Marshmallow Popcorn Bars

There are countless reasons to adore Peanut Butter & Marshmallow Popcorn Bars. Here are just a few:

• Quick and Easy: They come together in less than 30 minutes, making them a fantastic last-minute dessert option.
• No-Bake Delight: With no baking required, this recipe is perfect for hot days or when you want to avoid turning on the oven.
• Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins or toppings to make these bars uniquely yours.
• Family-Friendly: Kids will love helping you make these delicious bars, from pouring ingredients to mixing everything together.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re at a potluck or hosting friends, these bars are sure to impress with their delicious flavor and chewy texture.

What Goes Into Peanut Butter & Marshmallow Popcorn Bars

To whip up these scrumptious Peanut Butter & Marshmallow Popcorn Bars, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll require:

• ½ cup (113.5g) salted butter: Adds richness and helps bind the bars together.
• 10-ounce (283.5g) bag marshmallows: The star ingredient, providing that gooey, sweet texture.
• ¾ cup (193.5g) Peter Pan Simply Ground peanut butter: Creamy and nutty, it complements the marshmallows perfectly.
• 12 cups (132g) plain popcorn: The base of the bars, giving them their delightful crunch.
• ½ cup (90g) semisweet chocolate chips: For a touch of chocolatey goodness that balances the sweetness.

Cook’s Kit

Before you start making these Peanut Butter & Marshmallow Popcorn Bars, gather the following essentials:

• Large Pot: For melting the butter and marshmallows.
• Mixing Spoon: A sturdy spoon to combine all ingredients.
• Large Bowl: To mix the popcorn and the marshmallow mixture together.
• Baking Dish: A 9×13 inch dish lined with parchment paper for easy removal.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient measurements.

Peanut Butter & Marshmallow Popcorn Bars Made Stepwise

Making these bars is a breeze! Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of Peanut Butter & Marshmallow Popcorn Bars.

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start by greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish or lining it with parchment paper. This will make it easy to lift out the bars once they’ve set.

Step 2: Melt the Butter and Marshmallows

In a large pot over medium-low heat, melt the salted butter. Once melted, add the marshmallows. Stir continuously until the marshmallows are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.

Step 3: Add the Peanut Butter

Remove the pot from heat and stir in the Peter Pan Simply Ground peanut butter until fully combined. The mixture should be creamy and glossy.

Step 4: Combine with Popcorn

In a large bowl, place the plain popcorn. Pour the melted marshmallow and peanut butter mixture over the popcorn. Use a mixing spoon to gently fold the popcorn into the marshmallow mixture, ensuring every piece is coated.

Step 5: Press into the Dish

Transfer the popcorn mixture into the prepared baking dish. With greased hands or a spatula, press the mixture down firmly to create an even layer.

Step 6: Add Chocolate Chips

While the mixture is still warm, sprinkle the semisweet chocolate chips on top. Gently press them into the mixture so they stick.

Step 7: Let It Set

Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature. For quicker results, you can place them in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.

Step 8: Cut and Serve

Once set, lift the bars out of the dish using the parchment paper. Cut them into squares or rectangles and enjoy your delicious Peanut Butter & Marshmallow Popcorn Bars!

Year-Round Variations

These Peanut Butter & Marshmallow Popcorn Bars are incredibly versatile. Here are some fun variations to try throughout the year:

• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top for an extra indulgent treat.
• Holiday Sprinkles: Add festive sprinkles during the holidays for a cheerful touch.
• Nutty Additions: Mix in chopped nuts like almonds or peanuts for added crunch.
• Dried Fruits: Incorporate dried cranberries or raisins for a chewy surprise.
• Coconut Flakes: Add sweetened shredded coconut for a tropical twist.

Avoid These Mistakes

To ensure your Peanut Butter & Marshmallow Popcorn Bars turn out perfectly, keep these common pitfalls in mind:

• Don’t overheat the marshmallows; they can become too sticky and hard to work with.
• Make sure to coat all popcorn evenly; otherwise, some pieces may remain dry and unappetizing.
• Be generous when pressing the mixture into the dish; this helps the bars hold together when cut.
• Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting; they will be much easier to slice.

Storage Pro Tips

To keep your Peanut Butter & Marshmallow Popcorn Bars fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:

• Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerate them for up to two weeks.
• For longer storage, freeze the bars in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Handy Q&A

Can I use a different type of nut butter?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor profile.

What can I use instead of marshmallows?

You can use marshmallow fluff as an alternative, but be aware that the texture may differ slightly.

Can I make these bars vegan?

Yes! Substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative and use vegan marshmallows and chocolate chips.

How do I make these bars gluten-free?

Simply ensure that you use certified gluten-free popcorn, as all other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

More Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed these Peanut Butter & Marshmallow Popcorn Bars, check out these other delicious treats:

• Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Salted Caramel Brownies
• No-Bake Cheesecake
• Moist Banana Bread

Bring It to the Table

These Peanut Butter & Marshmallow Popcorn Bars are not just a treat; they are a celebration of flavors and textures that everyone will love. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your home. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to indulge in a deliciously sweet snack that you’ll want to make again and again. Happy snacking!