Description
Nostalgic salted nut roll bars deliver midwest charm with layers of sweet marshmallow, creamy peanut butter, and crunchy peanuts. Classic comfort meets simple indulgence you’ll savor from first delightful bite to last crumbly morsel.
Ingredients
Scale
Nuts and Base:
- 2 cups salted peanuts
- 1 cup butter
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
Caramel Layer:
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Marshmallow Topping:
- 3 cups marshmallows
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing slight overhang for easy removal.
- Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter, pressing the mixture firmly into the prepared pan to create an even, compact base layer.
- Sprinkle salted peanuts evenly over the graham cracker crust, creating a consistent nut layer.
- In a medium saucepan, combine corn syrup and granulated sugar, heating over medium heat and stirring constantly until the mixture reaches a smooth, bubbling consistency.
- Slowly incorporate heavy cream into the sugar mixture, continuing to stir until the caramel becomes glossy and uniform in color.
- Carefully pour the hot caramel mixture over the peanut-covered crust, ensuring complete and even coverage.
- In a separate bowl, gently fold powdered sugar and vanilla extract into the marshmallows, creating a light, fragrant mixture.
- Spread the marshmallow topping evenly across the caramel layer, using a spatula to create a smooth surface.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the marshmallows turn golden brown and slightly puffy.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature for approximately 1 hour.
- Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the bars from the pan and slice into squares for serving.
Notes
- Prep Ahead: Toast graham cracker crumbs in the oven for 5 minutes before mixing with butter to enhance their nutty flavor and create a crispier base.
- Nut Variation: Swap salted peanuts with roasted almonds or cashews for different flavor profiles and texture experiences.
- Caramel Control: Use a candy thermometer to ensure precise caramel consistency, preventing burning or undercooking during the sugar heating process.
- Marshmallow Tip: For extra smoothness, warm marshmallows slightly before mixing with powdered sugar to help them blend more seamlessly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg