Payday Cookie Bars

If you love Payday candy bars, here’s a Payday cookie bars version just for you. This easy recipe is full of peanut butter and marshmallow deliciousness and will leave you wanting just one more, that’s how good they are!

I have learned so many, many things from the Southern husband. For example: convertibles are light-years better than regular cars. Few meals in life are better than crayfish steamed in Old Bay spices and chased with Dixie beer. All the words to more Springsteen songs than I can count. And Payday candy bars.

Before he bought me my first Payday bar, lo these many years ago, I foolishly thought that all candy bars needed to involve chocolate. Not so…the wonderful Payday bar is peanuts and caramel with not a bit of chocolate anywhere, and it is GOOD. You don’t see them around too often, but when you do, it’s well worth buying one. Or two. And if you can’t find an actual Payday bar (or even if you can!), these Payday cookie bars are the next best thing!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Payday Cookie Bars capture the classic flavors of the beloved candy bar with a homemade twist. They combine the sweetness of marshmallows, the nuttiness of peanuts, and the rich flavor of peanut butter chips to create an irresistible treat. Perfect for anyone who loves a good sweet and salty combination without the need for chocolate!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 9 x 13-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowl
• Saucepan
• Spatula
• Oven
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

For the cookie layer:

• 1 box of yellow cake mix
• 2/3 cup butter
• 1 egg
• Pinch of salt

For the marshmallow layer:

• 2 cups mini marshmallows

For the topping:

• 1 bag peanut butter chips
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2/3 cup corn syrup
• 2 cups crispy rice cereal
• 2 cups salted peanuts
• Pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, butter, egg, and a pinch of salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Press the mixture evenly into a greased 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
5. Remove from the oven and sprinkle the mini marshmallows over the baked crust.
6. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the marshmallows are puffed.
7. In a saucepan, melt the peanut butter chips, butter, and corn syrup over medium heat, stirring until smooth.
8. Remove from heat and stir in the crispy rice cereal and salted peanuts until well coated.
9. Spread the topping evenly over the marshmallow layer. Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the marshmallow layer is evenly spread for a consistent texture in every bite.
• Let the bars cool completely before slicing to ensure clean, even cuts.
• For a firmer topping, refrigerate the bars for 30 minutes before serving.

Additional Tips and Variations

• For a chocolate twist, drizzle melted chocolate over the top once the bars have cooled.
• Try adding a layer of caramel sauce between the marshmallows and topping for extra gooeyness.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 320 | Fat: 18g | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 5g | Sugar: 24g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a different cake mix? Yes, a white or butter cake mix can also be used for a slightly different flavor.

How should I store these bars? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Can I freeze Payday Cookie Bars? Yes, wrap them individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Conclusion

These Payday Cookie Bars are a delightful nod to the classic candy bar that you can easily make at home. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, they’re sure to be a hit. Try them out and let me know how they turned out for you!