What is a game changer in my house? Copycat Payday Candy Bars. Picture this: What is that sweet, salty, nutty flavor explosion you crave, but without having to run to the store? What is the best of both worlds? Is it a step up in ease from making homemade peanut butter cups? My kids are obsessed. How can I stop them? If you’re anything like me and you sometimes have a serious sweet tooth and love for quick and easy meals and snacks, then you are lucky. You’re going to be totally hooked on this. Will you ever stop making these?
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What is Copycat Payday candy bars?
What is the best way to think of it? If a classic Payday candy bar had sex and if it were bottled, it would be these Copycats. Payday Candy Bars. It’s essentially a chewy, sweet base loaded with salty peanuts, all coated in an luscious, creamy base. What is a caramel What is the beauty of this recipe is that it captures that iconic Payday flavor profile without all the ingredients. What are the most complicated What’s the best no-bake candy you’ve ever eaten? Buy at the store. What are some fun things to do with your kids? What is sticky with peanuts?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I start? What I love most about this Copycat Payday Candy Bars recipe is how easy it is. What are some good ways to throw everything in a bowl and mix it up and you’re done! Seriously, it’s almost effortless, and that’s a huge win in my book, especially on busy weeknights. The flavor is just… Wow! The sweet and salty combination is absolutely addictive. Is the chewy texture just perfect? Is it cheaper to buy individual candy bars? I can make a whole batch of these for the same price as maybe two or three actual Paydays. What’s a win-win for the wallet and the sweet tooth? This is far from the most gourmet thing I make, but when I need something FAST, this recipe is my go-to. If you’re a fan of anything sweet and salty (like salted caramel, anyone?)? ), then you absolutely have to try these. What are some of the best snacks to have on hand for a potluck? They’re that good!
How do you make copycat Payday candy bars?
Quick Overview
How do you melt butter and brown sugar together? What is a caramel What is the best way to mix powdered sugar and vanilla together? Spread the mixture out and immediately load it up with salted peanuts. Let it cool completely so that the bars get nice and firm. It’s seriously that simple. No baking, no fancy equipment, and minimal cleanup! Plus, this recipe is super forgiving. It’s one that you can pretty much throw together without a second thought, and it always turns out to be true.
Ingredients
For the Main Batter:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) salted butter: I always add a little extra oomph. If you only have unsalted, just add a pinch of salt to the batter.
- 1 cup packed brown sugar: Light or dark brown will work great. Dark brown sugar will give it a slightly richer, molasses-like flavor.
- What is the best vanilla extract?
- 4 cups powdered sugar: This is key for the right texture. Don’t substitute with granulated sugar.
For the coating:
- I prefer roasted and salted peanuts for maximum flavor. I like dry roasted meat, but I don’t like the saltiness of it.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Prepare Pan
Line a 9 x 13 inch pan with parchment paper. Make sure the parchment paper hangs over the sides so you can easily lift the candy bars out later. This is crucial for easy cleanup!
Step 2: Melt Butter and Brown Sugar
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Remove from heat and set aside. Add the brown sugar and stir constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth. What is the best way to burn a candle?
Step 3: Remove from Heat
What is vanilla extract in a saucepan?
Step 4: Add Powdered Sugar
Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. When you stir the mixture, it will become very thick and a little hard to stir – that’s totally normal!
Step 5: Spread into Pan
How do I spread the mixture evenly into a pan? I find it easiest to use a rubber spatula or even my hands (lightly greased! ) to press it down evenly.
Step 6: Add Peanuts
Immediately sprinkle the salted peanuts evenly over the mixture, pressing them in gently so they don’t stick together. Don’t skimp on the peanuts! You want every bite to be packed with that salty crunch.
Step 7: Cool and Set
Let the candy bars cool completely at room temperature. Is it possible to speed up the process by refrigerating them for about an hour?
Step 8: Cut and Serve
Once the candy bars are firm, lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. What do you cut into bars and serve.
What should I serve it with?
Copycat Payday Candy Bars are pretty perfect on their own, but if you want to get fancy, here are some of the best. What are some ideas?
What is a quick snack?What’s a good pick me up in the afternoon?
For Dessert:Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. The contrast of the cold ice cream and the chewy candy bar is heavenly.
To take to a party:What are some of the best squares to cut and arrange on a platter?
With coffee or tea?What is the best flavor for coffee?
When I’m feeling extra indulgent, I sprinkle a little melted chocolate over them. That takes them to a whole new level of deliciousness. They’re pretty amazing just as they are. I also love pairing it with a glass of cold milk – it’s like an adult version of milk and cookies!
How do I make a copycat candy bar?
What are some tricks I’ve learned over the years to make these Copycat Payday Candy Bars?
Don’t overcook the butter and sugar. Don’t burn the breadIf you have a grainy taste, melt them together until smooth and combined.
What is the best vanilla extract?What makes a difference in the overall flavor? I always use pure vanilla extract, not imitation stuff.
Work Quickly: Once you add the powdered sugar, the mixture will start to set up quickly. So, work fast to spread it into the pan and add the peanuts.
Press the Peanuts In: What are some examples? Gently press the peanuts into the mixture so they stick. This will prevent them from falling off when you cut the bars.
Let Them Cool Completely: This is crucial for the right texture. Don’t try to cut them before they’re completely firm, or they’ll be a sticky mess. I’ve learned that the hard way!
For a Chocolate Version: Melt some chocolate chips and drizzle them over the cooled candy bars. Or, even better, dip the entire bar in melted chocolate!
For a Softer Texture: Add a tablespoon or two of milk or cream to the butter and sugar mixture. This will make the candy bars a little softer and chewier.
I also always make sure to use fresh peanuts. Stale peanuts will ruin the whole thing. And don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of nuts. Almonds, cashews, or even a mix of nuts would be delicious!
Storing and Reheating Tips
These Copycat Payday Candy Bars are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for about a week, but honestly, they never last that long in my house! You can also store them in the refrigerator for a slightly longer shelf life, but they might become a little harder.
I don’t recommend freezing them, as the texture can change when they thaw.
If you want to make them ahead of time, you can prepare the mixture and spread it into the pan, then store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to add the peanuts. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before adding the peanuts so they stick properly.
But really, these are so easy to make that there’s no need to make them too far in advance. They’re best enjoyed fresh!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it: my super easy, totally addictive Copycat Payday Candy Bars recipe. Seriously, these are so good, and so simple to make, that they’re practically foolproof. If you’re looking for a quick and easy treat that’s sure to satisfy your sweet and salty cravings, then look no further. And if you’re a fan of easy candy recipes, be sure to check out my other no-bake treats, like my peanut butter fudge or my Oreo truffles. They’re just as delicious and just as easy to make! I really can’t wait to hear how yours turn out! Leave a comment below and let me know if you tried them and what you think. Happy candy-making!
Copycat Payday Candy Bars
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter creamy peanut butter preferred
- 0.5 cup packed brown sugar
- 0.25 cup corn syrup
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups peanuts
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a saucepan, combine peanut butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until melted and smooth.
- Stir in powdered sugar and peanuts.
- Press mixture into a greased 8x8 inch baking pan.
- Melt chocolate chips and spread evenly over the peanut butter mixture.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into bars.
