Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Ingredients
For the Cookie Layer:
- 1 box of yellow cake mix
- 2/3 cup butter, melted
- 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
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
- Prepare the Cookie Layer: In a large bowl, mix together the cake mix, melted butter, egg, and a pinch of salt until a soft dough forms. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden brown.
- Add Marshmallows: Remove the pan from the oven and sprinkle the mini marshmallows over the cookie layer. Return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the marshmallows begin to puff up.
- Prepare the Topping: In a saucepan over low heat, melt the peanut butter chips with butter and corn syrup, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the crispy rice cereal, salted peanuts, and a pinch of salt.
- Assemble: Pour the peanut and cereal mixture over the marshmallow layer, spreading evenly. Press down gently to ensure the layers adhere.
- Cool: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once set, cut into bars or squares.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Cook Notes
For an even layer of marshmallows, distribute them evenly and avoid clumping. The warmth from the oven will help them spread and puff up.
Variations
- Keto Version: Use a keto-friendly cake mix, almond or peanut flour instead of crispy rice cereal, sugar-free peanut butter chips, and a low-carb sweetener instead of corn syrup.
- Low-Carb Version: Similar to the keto version, focus on low-carb substitutes for high-carb ingredients.
Nutrition Fact
The nutritional values can vary significantly based on the ingredients used. However, a general estimate for a serving (assuming the recipe makes 24 bars) might approximately contain:
- Calories: 220-280
- Fat: 12-16g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Protein: 4-5g
- Sugar: 15-20g
Note: For keto and low-carb versions, the macronutrients will adjust based on the substitutes used.
Payday Cookie Bars are a delightful mix of sweet, salty, and crunchy that’s bound to satisfy any craving. Whether you’re a fan of the iconic candy bar or just looking for a new dessert to try, these bars are sure to become a fast favorite in your recipe collection.
