Dessert and Appetizer

Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares

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There’s something extra magical about Disney treats. Maybe it’s the sugar high mixed with the happiness of being there, but they just hit different. These Peanut Butter Squares are one of those iconic Disney snacks that brings that feeling home in one bite.

I remember the first time I had one at the park—mid-afternoon, post churro, pre-parade—and it completely blew my mind. It was like a Reese’s cup but better. Thicker, creamier, and topped with a silky chocolate that felt like a dessert dream. Once I got home, I had to recreate it. And after a few test runs (and some happy taste testers), this copycat version nailed it.

These are perfect for dessert trays, holiday platters, or when you just need a little Disney magic on a Tuesday afternoon.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • No baking required: Just mix, spread, chill, and slice.
  • Only 6 ingredients: All pantry staples—no fancy stuff.
  • Dreamy texture: Soft, creamy peanut butter base with a smooth, snappy chocolate topping.
  • Better than a peanut butter cup: Richer, thicker, and more indulgent.
  • Make-ahead friendly: Stores beautifully in the fridge or freezer for whenever a craving hits.

Whether you’re a Disney superfan or just love peanut butter + chocolate (who doesn’t?), this recipe is guaranteed to earn a spot in your dessert rotation.

Prep Time and Servings

Total Time: 15 minutes active, plus 1 hour chilling
Servings: 16 squares
Calories per square: 280
Protein: 5g | Carbs: 20g | Fat: 19g

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 full sheets, crushed)
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter (not natural-style)
  • 2 cups milk chocolate chips (or a mix of milk + semisweet for balance)
  • 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter (for the chocolate topping)

Ingredient Notes

  • Butter: Unsalted gives you control over flavor. Melted makes mixing super easy.
  • Powdered sugar: Dissolves into the peanut butter base for a smooth, fudge-like texture.
  • Graham cracker crumbs: Adds structure and a slight crunch.
  • Peanut butter: Go for creamy and shelf-stable, like Jif or Skippy. Natural styles are too oily and won’t set up right.
  • Chocolate: Milk chocolate makes it taste just like the Disneyland version. Add a bit of semisweet if you want less sweetness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep your pan

Line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang so you can lift the bars out easily once they’re set.

2. Make the peanut butter base

In a large mixing bowl, stir together:

  • Melted butter
  • Powdered sugar
  • Graham cracker crumbs
  • 1 cup peanut butter

Mix until smooth and fully combined. The texture should be thick and scoopable—like soft cookie dough.

Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan using a spatula or your hands. Smooth the top as much as you can—it doesn’t have to be perfect!

3. Make the chocolate topping

In a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler, melt:

  • 2 cups chocolate chips
  • 2 tablespoons peanut butter

Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth.

Pour the chocolate over the peanut butter layer and spread evenly with a spatula.

4. Chill and slice

Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until the bars are fully set.

Once chilled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Let sit at room temp for 5 minutes before slicing (this helps prevent cracking).

Slice into 16 squares and serve!

How to Serve

These bars are rich, so a little goes a long way. Serve them:

  • As part of a dessert tray with cookies and brownies
  • Wrapped individually in wax paper for party favors or lunchbox treats
  • With coffee or milk for the ultimate snack moment
  • As a sweet surprise in a holiday cookie box
  • Chilled, room temp, or slightly warmed (they’re amazing every way)

Additional Tips

  1. Don’t use natural peanut butter – It separates and makes the base oily and too soft.
  2. Let the chocolate cool slightly before pouring – If it’s too hot, it might sink into the base instead of sitting on top.
  3. Use a warm knife to slice cleanly – Run it under hot water, wipe dry, then slice.
  4. Customize the topping – Sprinkle crushed peanuts, sea salt, or graham crumbs on top before the chocolate sets.
  5. Use a food processor for crumbs – Quick, easy, and makes a fine crumb for a smoother texture.

Recipe Variations

  • Nut-Free Version: Use sunflower seed butter and allergy-safe chocolate.
  • Crunchy Twist: Stir in ½ cup chopped peanuts or crispy rice cereal to the base.
  • Dark Chocolate Version: Swap milk chocolate for dark chocolate chips or a 70% bar.
  • Mini Squares: Cut into smaller 1-inch bites for party platters or gifting.
  • Holiday Swirl: Melt white chocolate and swirl it into the top for a festive look.

Storage Tips

To Store:
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Let sit at room temp for 5–10 minutes before serving for best texture.

To Freeze:
Place cut bars in a single layer (or between parchment) in a freezer-safe container. Freeze up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge or on the counter.

FAQ

Can I use natural peanut butter?
I don’t recommend it. The oils separate and the texture will be off. Stick with classic creamy PB like Jif or Skippy.

What if I only have semisweet chocolate?
Totally fine! It’ll be a little richer and less sweet but still delicious.

Do I need to bake anything?
Nope! This is 100% no-bake. Just mix, layer, and chill.

How do I get clean slices?
Chill the bars well, use a hot knife, and wipe it clean between cuts.

Can I double this recipe?
Yes! Use a 9×13-inch pan and double all ingredients for a bigger batch.

Conclusion

These Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares are a nostalgic, magical, peanut-buttery dream. They’re rich, creamy, chocolatey, and honestly just fun to eat. Whether you’re reliving a trip to the parks or just want a ridiculously good homemade treat, these bars bring the magic home in the best way.

Try them once and they’ll earn a permanent spot in your no-bake dessert lineup. If you make them, tag me—I’d love to see your sweet Disney-inspired creations!

Print
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Disneyland Peanut Butter Squares


  • Author: Grandma Betty
  • Total Time: 1 hr 20 min

Description

creamy peanut butter layer rests on a buttery graham cracker base and is topped with rich chocolate—just like the beloved treat from the parks.


Ingredients

Scale

For the base:

  • 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

  • ¼ cup granulated sugar

For the peanut butter layer:

  • 1½ cups creamy peanut butter

  • 1½ cups powdered sugar

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

  • ½ tsp vanilla extract

For the chocolate topping:

  • 1½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

  • 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter (for smoothness)


Instructions

1️⃣ Make the base: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press evenly into a greased or parchment-lined 9×9-inch baking pan. Chill while making the next layer.

2️⃣ Prepare the peanut butter layer: In a large bowl, beat peanut butter, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla until smooth and fluffy. Spread evenly over the chilled crust.

3️⃣ Melt the chocolate topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips with 2 tbsp peanut butter in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.

4️⃣ Top and chill: Pour chocolate mixture over the peanut butter layer and spread evenly. Chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour until set.

5️⃣ Slice and serve: Cut into squares and enjoy the magic! Store leftovers in the fridge.

Notes

  • Use crunchy peanut butter for extra texture.

  • Best served slightly chilled for clean cuts and perfect layers.

  • Can be frozen and enjoyed straight from the freezer like a candy bar!

  • Prep Time: 20 min
  • Cook Time: 1 hr

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