Why You’ll Love Homemade Payday Candy Bars
✅ No baking required
✅ Takes less than 30 minutes
✅ Perfect balance of sweet and salty
✅ Tastes just like the real thing (or better!)
Plus, these bars are naturally gluten-free and easy to customize with different nut or candy combinations.
What Are Payday Candy Bars?
Originally launched by Hollywood Candy Company in 1932, Payday Bars are known for their salty roasted peanuts covering a chewy caramel and nougat-like center. They’re unique among candy bars—no chocolate, just pure peanut and caramel bliss.
Our homemade Payday candy bars recreate that iconic flavor and texture using simple ingredients like peanut butter, marshmallows, and sweetened condensed milk.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a few pantry staples to recreate this addictive candy bar:
For the Filling:
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3 tablespoons unsalted butter
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1 (11 oz) bag peanut butter chips
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1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
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1 (10 oz) bag mini marshmallows
For the Base and Topping:
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3 cups salted roasted peanuts (divided)
💡 Tip: Use cocktail peanuts or Spanish peanuts for that authentic salty crunch!
How to Make Homemade Payday Candy Bars (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or non-stick foil. Lightly spray with cooking spray.
Spread half of the peanuts evenly across the bottom of the pan to form the base layer.
Step 2: Make the Nougat Filling
In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and peanut butter chips, stirring constantly until smooth. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and continue mixing until fully incorporated.
Add the mini marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth. This mixture will be thick and gooey—just like nougat!
Step 3: Assemble the Bars
Pour the nougat mixture over the peanut layer and gently spread it out with a spatula.
Sprinkle the remaining peanuts evenly over the top and press them down lightly so they stick to the filling.
Step 4: Chill & Cut
Refrigerate the bars for at least 1–2 hours, or until firm. Once set, remove from the pan and cut into bars or squares.
🍬 Pro Tip: Use a sharp knife lightly greased with cooking spray for clean, easy slicing.
How to Store Homemade Payday Bars
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Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
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Freezer: Freeze in layers with parchment between them for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
These bars are perfect for make-ahead treats or sweet gifts!
Nutritional Info (Per Bar – Approx. 20 servings)
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Calories: ~250
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Fat: 14g
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Carbohydrates: 28g
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Sugar: 22g
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Protein: 5g
They’re rich, indulgent, and meant for sharing—unless you want to keep them all to yourself (we won’t judge!).
Variations and Fun Twists
Want to make your Payday bars extra special? Try these fun add-ins and variations:
Chocolate-Dipped Payday Bars
Dip half or all of each bar in melted dark chocolate for a Reese’s-meets-Payday fusion.
Nutty Crunch Mix
Add chopped almonds or cashews to the peanut mix for extra crunch and flavor.
Spicy Sweet
Sprinkle a dash of cayenne or chili powder into the nougat layer for a spicy kick!
Tips for Success
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Always use low heat to prevent scorching the filling.
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Use fresh peanuts for the best crunch and flavor.
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Let the bars fully cool and set before cutting for cleaner edges.
Common Questions
Are these just like store-bought Payday bars?
Yes! They taste incredibly close to the original but with a fresher, creamier nougat layer.
Can I use chunky peanut butter?
For best results, use peanut butter chips. But if you're experimenting with peanut butter, smooth is better for even texture.
Can I make them vegan?
You can try vegan marshmallows and condensed coconut milk, but the texture may vary slightly.
Perfect For:
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Holiday dessert trays
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Game night treats
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Lunchbox surprises
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Gifting in mason jars or treat bags
Final Thoughts
Homemade Payday Candy Bars are the ultimate mix of salty, sweet, chewy, and crunchy. They're easy to make, dangerously delicious, and perfect for sharing—though you may want to keep them all for yourself.
Next time you’re craving a classic candy bar or planning a special treat, skip the store-bought version and whip up this easy, no-bake recipe. Your taste buds (and your guests) will thank you!
📌 Pin, Save, and Share!
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📸 Tag your creations #HomemadePayday on social media!
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