Easy Homemade Payday Candy Bars
These no-bake Homemade Payday Candy Bars are packed with roasted salted peanuts and a rich, chewy peanut butter-marshmallow center that tastes just like the classic candy bar—only fresher and even more satisfying. With just a handful of pantry staples, they’re the perfect make-ahead dessert for parties, holidays, or whenever a sweet-and-salty craving strikes.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 2–3 hours
- Total Time: About 3 hours 25 minutes
- Servings: 20 bars
- Cuisine: American
- Course: Dessert, Candy
- Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 3 cups salted peanuts, divided
- 2 cups peanut butter chips
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large saucepan
- Silicone spatula
- Measuring cups
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Sharp knife
Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Pan
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2 – Make the Filling
In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, melt together:
- Butter
- Peanut butter chips
Stir until smooth.
Add:
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Vanilla extract
- Mini marshmallows
Continue stirring until the marshmallows are completely melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 3 – Create the Bottom Layer
Spread half of the salted peanuts evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Step 4 – Add the Filling
Pour the warm peanut butter mixture evenly over the peanuts.
Spread gently with a spatula until smooth.
Step 5 – Finish with Peanuts
Sprinkle the remaining peanuts evenly over the top.
Press them down lightly so they stick to the candy.
Step 6 – Chill
Refrigerate for 2–3 hours, or until completely firm.
Step 7 – Slice & Serve
Lift out (if using parchment) and cut into bars or squares with a sharp knife.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Up to 1 week in an airtight container.
- Freezer: Up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Tips
- Use salted peanuts for the classic sweet-and-salty flavor.
- Don’t overheat the peanut butter chips—they melt best over medium-low heat.
- Chill completely before slicing for clean bars.
- A lightly greased knife makes cutting easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use unsalted peanuts?
Yes, but salted peanuts provide the signature Payday flavor.
Can I use butterscotch chips instead?
Yes, they’ll create a sweeter, richer variation.
Can these be frozen?
Absolutely. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
Do I need a candy thermometer?
No. This recipe doesn’t require one.
Final Thoughts
If you love classic Payday candy bars, this homemade version delivers the same irresistible combination of creamy peanut butter filling and crunchy salted peanuts with minimal effort. They’re perfect for holiday trays, gifting, potlucks, or simply keeping in the refrigerator whenever a sweet craving hits.
