There’s something so nostalgic and comforting about no-bake desserts—and these Marshmallow Peanut Candy Squares are pure magic.
Sweet, chewy, crunchy, and just the right amount of salty, they come together in minutes with pantry staples and zero oven time.
I grew up making these with my mom on rainy afternoons.
Now, I make them for after-school snacks or whenever I need a quick dessert fix that never fails.
Why I Love This Recipe
No baking required
Sweet, salty, crunchy, chewy—everything in one bite
Made with simple pantry staples
Perfect for parties or lunchbox treats
Ready in under 30 minutes
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Honeycomb Cereal – The perfect crunchy base that holds up to the gooey coating.
Mini Marshmallows – Melted into a soft, fluffy glue for all the mix-ins.
Roasted Salted Peanuts – Adds crunch and balances the sweetness beautifully.
Unsalted Butter – Gives richness and a smooth melt.
Honey – Just a touch of floral sweetness that brings everything together.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Line the baking pan with parchment for easy lifting and slicing.
Stir quickly once the cereal is added—the mixture sets fast!
Use wet hands or a silicone spatula to press the mixture evenly without sticking.
Let cool completely before cutting to ensure clean edges.
Store in an airtight container to maintain texture.
How to Make Marshmallow Peanut Candy Squares
Step 1: Melt the Butter
In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter gently so it doesn’t brown or separate.
Step 2: Add Marshmallows
Stir in the mini marshmallows and continue stirring until fully melted and smooth.
Step 3: Stir in Peanuts & Honey
Add the roasted salted peanuts and honey to the melted mixture.
Stir until evenly combined.
Step 4: Fold in the Cereal
Quickly stir in the Honeycomb cereal until everything is well coated.
Work fast—it gets sticky!
Step 5: Press into Pan
Transfer the mixture to an 8×8-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper (or sprayed with non-stick spray).
Press firmly into an even layer.
Step 6: Cool & Set
Let the mixture sit at room temperature until fully set and cool to the touch.
Step 7: Slice & Serve
Once firm, cut into squares and enjoy!
Store extras in an airtight container.
What to Serve It With
A cold glass of milk
Crumbled over vanilla ice cream
Alongside coffee or hot cocoa
As part of a lunchbox snack
Wrapped up for party favors or bake sales
Variations / Substitutions
Extra honey flavor? Add 1–2 more tablespoons of honey.
Nut-free? Swap peanuts with sunflower seeds or omit entirely.
More crunch? Mix in crushed pretzels or chopped almonds.
Chocolate lover? Drizzle melted chocolate on top once cooled.
Fruity twist? Toss in dried cranberries or raisins for a chewy bite.
Storage & Leftovers
These candy squares keep well at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Avoid humid environments, as moisture can make them sticky.
For longer storage, wrap and freeze for up to 1 month.
Thaw at room temperature before serving.
FAQs
Can I use large marshmallows instead of mini?
Yes, just chop them up first for faster melting.
Can I use a different cereal?
You can! Rice Krispies, Chex, or Golden Grahams all work great.
How can I keep the mix from sticking to my hands?
Lightly wet your hands or use a greased spatula to press it into the pan.
Do these need to be refrigerated?
No, they’re best stored at room temperature in a sealed container.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes—use a 9×13-inch pan for a bigger batch.
Can I add chocolate chips?
Yes, just fold them in quickly at the end or sprinkle on top.
How long should I wait before cutting?
Let it cool for at least 30–45 minutes for the cleanest cuts.
Final Thoughts
These Marshmallow Peanut Candy Squares are everything I love in a treat—fun to make, satisfying to eat, and a crowd-pleaser every time.
They come together in minutes but leave a lasting impression, whether you’re sharing at a party or just indulging on a cozy afternoon.
Marshmallow Peanut Candy Squares
Ingredients
Method
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over low heat.
- Stir in marshmallows until fully melted and smooth.
- Add peanuts and honey; stir to combine.
- Fold in Honeycomb cereal and mix quickly to coat.
- Press mixture into an 8×8-inch pan lined with parchment or sprayed.
- Let cool and set completely.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/marshmallow-peanut-candy-squares/
Notes
- Honeycomb cereal gives a fun retro crunch, but you can substitute other puffed cereals.
- A drizzle of melted chocolate over the top makes them extra indulgent.
- These keep well in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
