This Peanut Butter Fritos Candy is the ultimate sweet-and-salty treat that comes together with shockingly minimal effort. Each bite blends crunchy, salty corn chips with a luscious peanut butter caramel and, if you like, a glossy drizzle of melted chocolate. It’s a conversation starter and guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for holiday trays, potlucks, or just anytime you want a fun twist on dessert. Get ready to fall in love with this playful spin on classic candy bars—one taste, and you’ll see why it disappears so quickly!
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Fritos:
- 1 bag (10 oz) Fritos corn chips (lightly crushed)
Caramel:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Topping:
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips (melted for drizzling)
How to Make Peanut Butter Fritos Candy
Step 1: Prep the Pan and Fritos
Start by lining a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or giving it a light mist of nonstick spray. Spread the lightly crushed Fritos across the bottom in an even layer—don’t pulverize them; you want lots of nooks and crannies for the syrupy peanut butter mix to seep into.
Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Caramel
Set a medium saucepan on the stove over medium heat, and combine the sugar with the corn syrup. Stir constantly as you bring the mixture to a gentle boil; you’ll notice the sugar dissolving and the syrup becoming clear and smooth. Remove the pan from the heat right away—this keeps the caramel from burning or becoming brittle.
Step 3: Stir in Peanut Butter and Vanilla
With the syrup still hot, quickly add in the creamy peanut butter and vanilla extract. Mix, mix, mix until you have a silky-smooth, homogeneous mixture. Work relatively swiftly here, since the mixture will start to thicken as it cools.
Step 4: Pour and Press
Quickly pour the warm peanut butter caramel all over the Fritos in your prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, pressing gently to help the mixture get into all those nooks. If you’re a fan of the chocolate option, now’s the time to melt your chocolate chips and artistically drizzle the chocolate over the top for style and flavor.
Step 5: Cool and Slice
Let your Peanut Butter Fritos Candy cool at room temperature until the top is set and the bottom is firm. This takes about an hour, though patience will be rewarded with perfect slices. Once fully cooled, lift out the whole slab using the parchment paper, set it on a cutting board, and slice it into small squares.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Fritos Candy
Garnishes
Sprinkle a few extra crushed Fritos, chopped peanuts, or a pinch of flaky sea salt over the candy before the chocolate sets for extra crunch and flavor flair. If you like a glossy look, a second drizzle of melted chocolate or even white chocolate offers a bakery-style polish.
Side Dishes
As rich as Peanut Butter Fritos Candy is, it pairs surprisingly well with a cool scoop of vanilla ice cream or a platter of fresh fruits like strawberries or apple slices. For a party spread, set it alongside other no-bake treats and salty snacks for balance.
Creative Ways to Present
Get whimsical with your presentation! Stack squares in colorful cupcake liners, box them up in clear jars with a bow for easy gifting, or cut the candy into fun shapes using cookie cutters for special occasions. Don’t be surprised if people ask for your “secret” recipe!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Peanut Butter Fritos Candy keeps beautifully at room temperature. Store cut pieces in an airtight container (with wax paper between layers, if you like) for up to 5 days. The salty-sweet flavors only get cozier with time.
Freezing
If you’re planning ahead for a big event, freeze individual pieces in a zip-top bag or sealed container for up to two months. Just thaw at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to bring back their irresistible crunch.
Reheating
There’s no real need to reheat this treat. However, if you love a gooey bite, pop a square in the microwave for 5 seconds. Watch closely so the caramel doesn’t get too runny—the transformation to molten magic happens fast!
FAQs
Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Chunky peanut butter will add even more texture and nutty bits to your Peanut Butter Fritos Candy. Just be sure to stir thoroughly so everything blends together.
Are there gluten-free options for this recipe?
Most classic Fritos corn chips are gluten-free, but always double-check the label to be certain if you’re cooking for gluten-sensitive friends. All other ingredients should be safe as well!
What’s the best way to crush the Fritos?
Gently press the unopened bag with your hands, or give a few quick chops with a knife after pouring the chips into a bowl. Aim for bite-sized pieces, not crumbs, for that signature texture.
Can I use dark corn syrup or honey instead of light corn syrup?
Dark corn syrup can be used but will add deeper molasses flavors and a darker color. Honey will work in a pinch, though it will change both flavor and texture, making the candy slightly softer and sweeter.
How do I keep the candy from sticking to the knife when slicing?
Run your knife under hot water and wipe dry between slices. This simple trick helps you get clean, bakery-worthy cuts every time with minimal sticking.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’ll give Peanut Butter Fritos Candy a try and share the sweet magic with your friends and family. There’s nothing like the surprise on someone’s face when they realize what’s hiding inside these irresistible little squares. Enjoy every sweet, salty, crunchy bite!
Print
Peanut Butter Fritos Candy Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 24 pieces
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the perfect blend of sweet and salty with this Peanut Butter Fritos Candy recipe. A simple stovetop treat that combines the crunch of Fritos with a rich peanut butter caramel, topped with a drizzle of chocolate for extra decadence.
Ingredients
Fritos:
- 1 bag (10 oz) Fritos corn chips (lightly crushed)
Caramel:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Topping:
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips (melted for drizzling)
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Dish: Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or grease lightly. Spread crushed Fritos evenly in the dish.
- Make Caramel: In a saucepan, combine sugar and corn syrup over medium heat. Boil gently, stirring until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and mix in peanut butter and vanilla until smooth.
- Assemble Candy: Quickly pour the caramel over the Fritos, spreading evenly. Add melted chocolate if desired.
- Cool and Serve: Let the candy set at room temperature for about 1 hour. Cut into squares and enjoy!
Notes
- For added crunch, mix chopped peanuts into the caramel before pouring.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
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