Homemade Payday Candy Bars – A Sweet and Salty Delight


If you're a fan of classic Payday candy bars, you're in for a treat! These homemade Payday bars perfectly balance sweet, creamy peanut butter flavor with crunchy salted peanuts. Unlike store-bought versions, this no-bake recipe is incredibly easy to make at home with just a few simple ingredients. Whether you're craving a nostalgic snack or need a quick dessert for a gathering, these bars will be a crowd-pleaser.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Simple Ingredients – Made with just four pantry staples.
No-Bake & Easy – Perfect for beginners, no candy thermometer required!
Sweet & Salty Perfection – The creamy peanut butter base pairs beautifully with crunchy, salted peanuts.
Customizable – Add caramel bits, chocolate chips, or pretzels for a unique twist.

Ingredients & Their Role

  • 3 cups salted peanuts – Provides crunch and a perfect balance to the sweetness.
  • 2 cups peanut butter chips – Creates a creamy, nutty base that binds everything together.
  • 2 cups mini marshmallows – Adds chewiness and helps the bars hold their shape.
  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk – Provides rich sweetness and a smooth texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Line an 8x8-inch or 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes it easy to remove the bars once set.

Step 2: Melt the Base

In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the peanut butter chips and sweetened condensed milk. Stir constantly until the chips are fully melted and the mixture is smooth.

Step 3: Add the Marshmallows

Stir in the mini marshmallows, continuing to mix until they are completely melted and evenly combined with the peanut butter mixture.

Step 4: Incorporate the Peanuts

Remove the saucepan from heat and fold in the salted peanuts, ensuring they are well-distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 5: Press into the Pan

Pour the mixture into your prepared pan. Use a spatula or your hands (lightly greased or covered with parchment paper) to press it evenly into the pan.

Step 6: Chill & Set

Cover the pan with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the bars are completely set.

Step 7: Cut & Serve

Once the bars have firmed up, lift them out using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares or bars and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Perfect Payday Bars

Toast the Peanuts – For a deeper, roasted flavor, spread the peanuts on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes. Let them cool before adding.

Make It Your Own – Mix in chopped pretzels, caramel bits, or mini chocolate chips for an extra layer of flavor.

Storage Tips – Keep the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months.

Serving Suggestions – Enjoy these bars as a quick snack, pack them in lunchboxes, or serve them as a fun dessert for parties and gatherings.

Final Thoughts

These homemade Payday candy bars are the ultimate sweet-and-salty indulgence. With their creamy peanut butter base, chewy marshmallows, and crunchy salted peanuts, they’re a must-try treat for any candy lover. Plus, they’re effortless to make with no baking required! Give this recipe a try, and you’ll never need store-bought Payday bars again.

Craving more easy homemade treats? Let me know in the comments what recipe you’d love next!