Irresistible Salted Peanut Bars Recipe for Sweet-Salty Lovers

There’s something special about a recipe that’s been passed down through generations, and these salted peanut bars are one of those treasures.

With their buttery crust, chewy butterscotch layer, and crunchy salted peanuts, these bars are the perfect blend of sweet and salty comfort.

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Salted Peanut Bars Recipe for Sweet-Salty Lovers

Some recipes are more than just delicious—they’re part of your family’s story. 

This salted peanut bar recipe came from my husband’s maternal grandmother, a warmhearted woman who loved gardening almost as much as she loved baking. 

Every spring, she’d remind me, “Be sure to plant Red Hot Sally Salvia—it never disappoints.” She was right, of course. But what really blooms in my kitchen year after year are these amazing bars she made every Christmas.

What started as a holiday favorite has become one of our favorite dessert recipes all year long. 

With their buttery crust, chewy butterscotch topping, and crunchy salted peanuts, these dessert bars strike the perfect balance between sweet and salty. 

If you love salty treats that deliver different textures in every bite, this one’s for you.

A Sweet and Salty Tradition

When I first married into the family, these bars were the first thing I reached for on the Christmas cookie tray. Among all the candies and cookies, these stood out with their crumbly crust and rich, golden topping.

One bite and I understood why Grandma made them every year!

Now, they’ve become my go-to whenever I need a treat that feels comforting but takes minimal effort. This easy recipe comes together in just two layers—simple, straightforward, and always delicious.

Making the Crust

Start by preheating your oven and lining a baking pan with cooking spray for easy removal later.

The crust is a simple mix of crust ingredients you likely already have on hand: brown sugar, flour, and one cup butter (softened).

In a medium bowl, combine 3 cups flour, 1 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1 cup butter, and 1/4 tsp. salt. Use a wooden spoon or pastry cutter to blend everything together until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan, making sure to reach the edges of the pan so the crust bakes evenly.

Bake at 375 degrees for 10 minutes or until lightly golden and set. The result is a buttery base with a lightly crunchy texture—the perfect foundation for that irresistible topping.

Making the Peanut Topping

While the crust bakes, prepare the topping.

In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt 12 oz. butterscotch chips with 3 tbsp. butter, 3 tbsp. water, and 1/2 cup light corn syrup.

Stir constantly until the mixture becomes smooth and shiny, with a lovely golden caramel hue.

Remove from the heat and stir in 3 cup peanuts. Make sure they’re salty peanuts for that perfect contrast.

Mix until the peanut mixture is evenly coated and ready to spread.

Carefully pour the topping over the warm crust and spread it gently with the back of a spoon or spatula. Try to reach all the edges of the pan for even coverage.

Return to the 375-degree oven and bake bars for 8 minutes or just until the topping bubbles slightly around the edges.

Optional Add-Ins:

While the classic salted peanut bars are delicious on their own, you can get creative with a few extra ingredients. 

Chocolate chips blend beautifully into the peanut mixture for extra sweetness, candy corn adds a fun fall twist, and Rice Krispies can give an extra crunchy texture.

Simply stir your add-ins into the peanut topping before spreading it over the crust.

Cooling and Cutting

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting. When the bars have cooled slightly, loosen the bar edges from the sides of the pan. 

Once fully cooled, use a sharp knife to cut into even squares or rectangles. The combination of the chewy topping and tender crust makes each slice a little piece of nostalgia and comfort.

Every bite offers different textures—the crumbly base, the chewy butterscotch, and the satisfying crunch of salted peanuts. It’s a harmony of flavors that’s just right every time.

How to Store Salted Peanut Bars

To keep these bars fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container once they’ve cooled completely. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

• Room temperature: Cover with plastic wrap or wax paper, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days.
• Refrigerated: Store up to a week for a firmer texture.
• Frozen: These bars freeze beautifully! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

If you’re planning to share them (or gift them), these travel well and hold their shape perfectly—ideal for cookie exchanges, potlucks, or a cozy movie night snack.

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