Cheez-It Peanut Butter and Chocolate Treats
This Cheez-It peanut butter and chocolate treat is the ultimate combination of savory, sweet, and crunchy. Easy to make and incredibly addictive, this snack is perfect for movie nights, parties, or as a fun homemade gift. With just a few simple ingredients, you'll create a decadent, unique treat that's sure to impress!
Equipment
- - Microwave-safe bowls
- - Baking sheet
- - Parchment paper (optional for easy cleanup)
- - Spatula or spoon for tossing Cheez-Its
- - Spoon or piping bag for drizzling chocolate
Ingredients
- 1 cup Cheez-Its Choose classic or whole grain for a healthier alternative
- ½ cup peanut butter natural, no added sugar for a healthier version
- ½ cup chocolate chips dark, milk, or white chocolate chips depending on your preference
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup for a milder sweetness
- A pinch of salt optional, but adds great contrast to the sweetness
- 1 tbsp butter or substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free version
- 1 tsp vanilla extract for added flavor depth
- Optional add-ins:
- - ¼ cup chopped peanuts or almonds for extra crunch 🥜
- - ¼ cup dried cranberries or raisins for a fruity twist 🍇
- - 1 tbsp cocoa powder for a deeper chocolate flavor 🍫
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Lay the Cheez-Its out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they're spread evenly for consistent coating.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt peanut butter and butter together. Microwave for 20-30 seconds at a time, stirring in between until smooth and melted.
- Once melted, stir in honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt if using. Stir until everything is well combined and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Pour the peanut butter mixture over the Cheez-Its. Using a spatula or spoon, gently toss to coat all the Cheez-Its evenly. Make sure each piece gets some of that creamy goodness!
- In another microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 20-second intervals, stirring in between. Once melted and smooth, drizzle the chocolate over the Cheez-Its using a spoon or a piping bag for a more controlled drizzle.
- Optionally, add some chopped peanuts, almonds, or dried cranberries for extra texture and flavor. This step makes the snack even more fun and adds a burst of freshness and crunch!
- Place the baking sheet in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the chocolate harden and set. This will give you that satisfying crunch when you bite into it.
- Once set, break the coated Cheez-Its into pieces and serve. If you want to get creative, you can garnish with a light dusting of cocoa powder or a sprinkle of sea salt for extra flavor.
- Enjoy your Cheez-It peanut butter and chocolate snack! Perfect for movie nights, parties, or whenever you're craving something sweet and savory.
Notes
- **Customize the Chocolate**: Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate! Dark chocolate brings a rich and intense flavor, while milk chocolate adds sweetness and creaminess. You can even mix both for a more balanced taste.
- **Storage Tips**: Store the Cheez-It peanut butter and chocolate snack in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep it longer, store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just let it come to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
- **Make It Healthier**: To make this recipe even healthier, use dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa and substitute the peanut butter with almond butter for a different twist.
- **Perfect for Gifting**: This snack makes a great homemade gift! Pack it in a decorative jar or box, and it’s sure to delight anyone who loves sweet and savory treats.
- **Storage Tips**: Store the Cheez-It peanut butter and chocolate snack in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep it longer, store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just let it come to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
- **Make It Healthier**: To make this recipe even healthier, use dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa and substitute the peanut butter with almond butter for a different twist.
- **Perfect for Gifting**: This snack makes a great homemade gift! Pack it in a decorative jar or box, and it’s sure to delight anyone who loves sweet and savory treats.