I discovered the most amazing snack – Cheez It peanut butter and chocolate treats. It happened during a late-night kitchen experiment. My sweet and salty cravings merged, leading to an easy Cheez-It dessert recipe.
This recipe turned ordinary Cheez-It crackers into a rich snack. It mixes sharp cheese with creamy peanut butter and chocolate. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a journey for your taste buds.
Key Takeaways
- Super easy to prepare in just 15 minutes
- Perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors
- Uses only three main ingredients
- Great for parties and quick snacks
- Can be stored for up to 2 weeks
- Versatile recipe with multiple chocolate options
Introduction to Cheez-It Peanut Butter and Chocolate
Snack lovers, get ready for a culinary adventure. We’re turning the classic Cheez-It into a no-bake treat. This recipe mixes the savory crunch of cheese crackers with sweet chocolate and creamy peanut butter. It creates a snack cake that goes beyond traditional flavors.
What Inspired This Unique Recipe?
My journey started with “Christmas crack,” a classic holiday treat. It’s made with saltine crackers. I wanted to make it better by using Cheez-Its instead. And so, a revolutionary snack cake was born, blending unexpected flavors.
“Sometimes the most delicious creations come from breaking culinary rules and embracing unexpected combinations.”
A Sweet and Savory Combination
This recipe’s magic is in its flavor. Sweet-and-salty snacks are all the rage, and this treat embodies that. It uses the cheesy Cheez-It base, covered in chocolate and peanut butter. This creates a snack that:
- Balances savory and sweet notes
- Requires minimal preparation time
- Appeals to diverse taste preferences
- Offers a quick and convenient snacking option
Pro tip: Experiment with different chocolate types to customize your no-bake cheez it treat and find your perfect flavor combination!
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Recipe for Cheez-It Peanut Butter and Chocolate
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 pieces
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A perfect balance of sweet, salty, and crunchy! These Cheez-It Peanut Butter & Chocolate Bites combine the classic cheesy crunch of Cheez-Its with creamy peanut butter and a rich chocolate coating. A no-bake treat that’s easy to make and perfect for snacking or parties!
Ingredients
• 24 Cheez-It crackers
• ¼ cup creamy peanut butter
• ½ cup chocolate chips (milk or dark)
• 1 teaspoon coconut oil (optional, for smooth melting)
• Sea salt or crushed peanuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Make Sandwiches: Spread peanut butter onto 12 Cheez-It crackers, then top each with another cracker to form sandwiches.
2. Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with coconut oil in 15-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
3. Dip in Chocolate: Dip each peanut butter-filled Cheez-It halfway into the melted chocolate.
4. Set & Garnish: Place on parchment paper and sprinkle with sea salt or crushed peanuts if desired.
5. Chill & Serve: Let them set in the fridge for about 15 minutes until the chocolate hardens. Enjoy!
Notes
• Use crunchy peanut butter for extra texture.
• Swap in almond butter or Nutella for a different twist.
• Try white chocolate or a chocolate drizzle for variety.
• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack, Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Cheez-It, peanut butter, chocolate, sweet and salty, no-bake snack, easy dessert
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making delicious cheez it peanut butter cups is easy with just a few ingredients. I’ll show you what you need to turn Cheez-It crackers into a tasty treat.
Selecting the Perfect Cheez-It Crackers
For the best cheez it chocolate peanut butter bars, pick the right crackers. Use a 12 oz box of Cheez-Its. The original flavor is good, but the big variety adds extra crunch.
- Original Cheez-It crackers
- Big variety Cheez-Its for extra texture
- Approximately 12 oz box
Creamy Peanut Butter Essentials
The peanut butter is key for a smooth, nutty base. Choose a creamy variety that spreads well and goes great with the cheesy crackers.
| Peanut Butter Type | Quantity | Recommended Use |
|---|---|---|
| Creamy Peanut Butter | 1 cup | Base layer coating |
| Optional: Chunky Peanut Butter | ½ cup | Alternative texture option |
Chocolate Chips for the Perfect Finish
Semi-sweet chocolate chips are perfect for coating these treats. Add a tablespoon of vegetable oil to make the chocolate smooth for drizzling.
Pro tip: Choose high-quality chocolate chips for the most decadent flavor!
With these simple ingredients, you’re set to make a snack that’s both sweet and savory. Impress your friends and family with these amazing Cheez-It peanut butter chocolate bars!
Preparing Your Ingredients
Making this tasty cheez it cracker dessert needs careful prep and precise handling of ingredients. My secret to a perfect cheez it sweet snack is in measuring and preparing each part with care.
Measuring Peanut Butter with Precision
You’ll need exactly ½ cup of creamy peanut butter for this recipe. I suggest using a liquid measuring cup for accuracy. The peanut butter is key, adding richness to our dessert.
- Use room temperature peanut butter for easier spreading
- Aim for about ½ teaspoon per cracker when creating sandwiches
- Consider alternatives like almond butter for dietary variations
Chocolate Melting Techniques
Melting chocolate needs a gentle touch. I use a microwave-safe bowl and follow a careful process. This ensures smooth, perfectly melted chocolate for our snack.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation Method |
|---|---|---|
| Chocolate Chips | 1 cup | Microwave in 15-20 second intervals |
| Vegetable Oil | 1 tablespoon | Mix with chocolate for smooth consistency |
My top tip is to stir between each microwave interval and watch the chocolate carefully to prevent. The goal is a silky, perfectly melted chocolate that will coat our Cheez-It treats beautifully.
Pro tip: Work in small batches to keep your chocolate at the perfect melting point!
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Making the perfect cheez it candy recipe is an art. It mixes sweet and savory flavors. I’ll guide you through making these treats. They combine Cheez-Its’ crunch with creamy peanut butter and chocolate.
Coating the Cheez-Its with Peanut Butter
Start by getting ready. You’ll need:
- Cheez-It crackers
- Creamy peanut butter
- Parchment-lined baking sheet
- Teaspoon for measuring
Place half of your Cheez-Its on the baking sheet. Precision is key! Put a teaspoon of peanut butter on each. Spread it evenly for a smooth base.
Drizzling or Dipping in Chocolate
The fun part is next. Place another Cheez-It on top of the peanut butter. This makes a tasty sandwich. Melt your chocolate, either in a double boiler or microwave.
“The magic happens when you combine these unexpected flavors!” – A snack enthusiast
Dip each sandwich halfway in chocolate. Let the extra chocolate drip off. Then, place it back on the sheet. You can also drizzle chocolate on top for a creative touch.
Refrigerate for 10 minutes to set the chocolate. Enjoy these treats fresh. Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Tips for the Perfect Cheez It peanut butter and chocolate Treat
Making the ultimate Cheez-It dessert recipe takes some insider tips. I’ve picked up a few tricks to make your snack cake both delicious and foolproof.
Choosing the Right Cheez-It Flavor
Not all Cheez-Its are the same! Here are some tips for picking the right flavor:
- Original Cheez-Its give a classic savory taste
- Big Cheez-Its have a flakier texture
- Try specialty flavors like white cheddar or hot & spicy
Storing Your Cheez-It Treats
Storing your treats right keeps them fresh and tasty. Here are some storage tips:
| Storage Method | Duration | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 1 week | Airtight container |
| Refrigerated | Up to 2 weeks | Sealed container |
| Frozen | Up to 3 months | Freezer-safe bag |
Pro tip: In warm climates, keep treats in the fridge to stop chocolate from melting. Always use an airtight container to keep them fresh!
“The secret to an amazing Cheez-It treat is in the details of preparation and storage.” – Culinary Enthuasiast
Variations to Try
Making unique cheez it peanut butter cups can be fun. I’ve found ways to make this snack even better. The beauty of these bars is their versatility.
Adding Crunch with Nuts
Want to make your Cheez-It treats even better? Nuts are the key! Try these:
- Chopped almonds for a delicate crunch
- Roasted peanuts for an intensified nutty flavor
- Crushed walnuts for a rich, earthy undertone
Nuts add texture and boost protein. Each tablespoon can add 2-3 grams of protein.
Exploring Chocolate Possibilities
Chocolate offers endless options for your bars. My top picks are:
- White chocolate for a sweeter twist
- Dark chocolate with 60-70% cocoa for intense richness
- Milk chocolate for a classic, creamy flavor
Pro tip: Sprinkle some colorful sprinkles or crushed candy while the chocolate is wet for a festive touch!
Each chocolate choice adds a unique flavor. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite mix!
Serving Suggestions
Making the perfect cheez it cracker dessert is more than just the treat itself. It’s about how you present it and what you pair with it. I’ve found some great ways to make these sweet snacks stand out. They’ll impress your guests and make your events unforgettable.
Perfect Pairings for a Snack Platter
For a snack platter, variety is essential. Mix your chocolate-covered Cheez-Its with other treats for a balanced spread. Here are some exciting pairings to try:
- Pair with salty pretzels for a sweet and savory contrast
- Add fresh fruit like strawberries or apple slices
- Include some roasted nuts for extra crunch
- Incorporate marshmallow bits for textural diversity
Creative Gift Ideas
Sharing these cheez it cracker desserts as homemade gifts is my favorite way to do it. Here are some creative ways to present them:
- Decorative glass jars with ribbon
- Cellophane bags with personalized labels
- Holiday-themed containers
- Small gift boxes with tissue paper
“Homemade treats are always the most heartwarming gifts!” – My grandmother’s wisdom
These cheez it sweet snacks can turn any gathering into a special event. Whether you’re hosting a party or need a unique gift, these treats will surely please everyone.
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional profile of this no-bake cheez it treat is important. It lets you enjoy it without guilt. Let’s look at the key details of this tasty snack.
Caloric Breakdown per Serving
This cheez it candy recipe makes about 8 servings. Each serving has around 80-100 calories. The amount of chocolate coating and peanut butter affects the nutrition.
- Calories per serving: 80-100
- Protein content: 4 grams per tablespoon of peanut butter
- Total preparation time: 22 minutes
Healthier Alternatives
Here are some ways to make this treat healthier:
- Use dark chocolate with 70% cacao for antioxidants
- Choose natural peanut butter to cut down on added sugars
- Make smaller batches to control portion sizes
For the best taste, keep your no-bake cheez it treat in an airtight container. These treats stay fresh for up to a week. This lets you enjoy them slowly.
Remember, moderation is key to maintaining a balanced diet while enjoying delicious treats!
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
My adventure with this Cheez-It peanut butter and chocolate recipe was a joy. It turned simple ingredients into a magical treat that wows everyone. The mix of Cheez-Its, chocolate, and peanut butter is a flavor blast that beats many candy bars.
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe stands out because it’s easy and flexible. You can try different Cheez-It flavors or chocolate types. The two-ingredient chocolate method leads to amazing dishes.
Encouragement to Share Your Results
I really want you to try this recipe and make it your own. Take a photo, post it online, and tag your friends. Baking is all about being creative and having fun. So, don’t hesitate to add your own twist to these tasty Cheez-It treats!
