Irresistible Homemade Salted Nut Roll Bars: Your Go-To Sweet & Salty Copycat Recipe
Salted Nut Roll Bars are a phenomenal homemade rendition of the beloved Salted Nut Roll candy bar. This copycat recipe features a wonderfully buttery crust, a soft, pillowy marshmallow center, and is crowned with an utterly irresistible top layer packed with peanut butter, caramel, and salty roasted peanuts. It’s a sweet and salty combination that will undoubtedly make you swoon and reach for another bite!
What defines your ultimate candy bar craving? For many, including myself, it has always been the iconic Salted Nut Roll. Its unique blend of sweet, salty, and chewy textures creates an unforgettable experience. That’s precisely why this recipe for homemade Salted Nut Roll Bars holds such a special place in my heart – it perfectly captures the magic of the original!
For the longest time, I simply assumed you could find a Salted Nut Roll candy bar anywhere. However, I’ve come to realize that this isn’t always the case, especially depending on your location. Sometimes, even here, they can be elusive. I often play a little game with myself at the supermarket: as I approach the checkout aisle, I make a silent pact. “If they have a Salted Nut Roll, I can treat myself to one. If not, I’m out of luck!” This little ritual makes discovering one all the more exciting, especially when it’s a King Size!
The Iconic Salted Nut Roll Candy Bar: A Sweet History
The Salted Nut Roll has a rich history, dating back to 1933. This timeless confection is proudly crafted by Pearson’s Candy in the Twin Cities of Minnesota. Launched during the challenging era of the Great Depression, the Pearson’s Salted Nut Roll was designed to be an affordable indulgence, originally priced at just five cents. It offered a moment of sweet escape even when purse strings were held tightly, a testament to its enduring appeal and value.
Isn’t a Salted Nut Roll the Same as a Payday Candy Bar? Not Quite!
It’s a very common misconception that these two candy bars are identical. My daughter’s boyfriend, for instance, would have confidently told you that a Payday was his favorite – that is, until I introduced him to the delightful Salted Nut Roll! While both share that irresistible sweet and salty combination, featuring savory peanuts, creamy peanut butter, and luscious golden caramel, there’s one crucial element that sets the Salted Nut Roll apart: its signature nougat center.
You might be wondering, “Is that what that white, fluffy stuff in the middle of a Salted Nut Roll is?” Indeed! It’s nougat. This airy, chewy nougat center is a true game-changer. It not only contributes a touch more sweetness but also significantly enhances the texture, making the Salted Nut Roll distinctly softer and more delightfully chewy than its Payday counterpart. This unique addition elevates the entire candy bar experience.
The Best Homemade Salted Nut Roll Bars Recipe
I’ve been passionately making this simple yet incredibly satisfying recipe for homemade salted nut roll bars for many, many years – even before I had kids, which certainly dates me, but it’s a testament to its timeless appeal! I originally received this fantastic recipe from a colleague back in 1993. She brought these bars to an office potluck, and from the very first bite, I was completely hooked!
Over the decades, I’ve experimented with various other recipes, but I always find myself returning to this one. It consistently yields perfect results, delivering that ideal balance of sweet and salty every single time. These delectable treats are always among the first to vanish from my cookie platters during the Christmas season, a clear indicator of just how beloved they are by everyone who tries them.
How Do Homemade Salted Nut Roll Bars Compare to the Original Candy Bar?
The flavor profile of these homemade salted nut roll bars is remarkably similar to the store-bought version. While Pearson’s Candy might contend that no one has ever achieved an exact replication, despite countless attempts, these homemade bars offer an incredibly satisfying and delicious experience that stands on its own. They capture the essence of what makes the original so special.
The primary textural difference lies in the center. As I mentioned earlier, the actual Pearson’s candy bar features a creamy nougat center, providing a distinct chewiness. Our homemade version, however, uses a fluffy marshmallow center. This creates a slightly different but equally delightful softness and chew, making it wonderfully approachable for home bakers. Both versions masterfully combine a sweet, chewy base of caramel and peanut butter, perfectly complemented by the crunchy, salty roasted peanuts that deliver that essential savory counterpoint. It’s a combination that truly hits all the right notes!
Essential Ingredients for Your Salted Nut Roll Bar Recipe
Crafting these delectable salted nut roll bars requires a few key ingredients for each of the three distinct layers. Quality ingredients ensure the best possible flavor and texture for your homemade treat.
CRUST Ingredients: The Foundation of Flavor
- Flour: All-purpose flour is recommended for its versatility and ability to create a tender, yet sturdy base for our bars.
- Brown Sugar: Whether you choose light or dark brown sugar, it adds a deep, molasses-rich sweetness and contributes to the crust’s chewiness.
- Baking Powder: This leavening agent helps to give the crust a slight lift and a tender crumb.
- Vanilla: Always opt for 100% pure vanilla extract. Its aromatic warmth is crucial for enhancing the overall flavor profile of the crust.
- Salt: A touch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors in the crust.
- Baking Soda: Another leavening agent, working with the brown sugar to create a perfectly textured base.
- Butter: I strongly recommend using real butter or a high-quality butter substitute. Unless you have a dairy allergy, avoiding butter substitution is key to achieving that signature rich, buttery bottom layer.
- Eggs: For this specific crust, you’ll only need the egg yolks. They contribute richness, tenderness, and help bind the ingredients together without making the crust too firm.
TOPPING Ingredients: The Sweet & Salty Crown
- Miniature Marshmallows: These form the gooey, soft center layer. While some recipes might suggest marshmallow creme, I prefer miniature marshmallows for their texture and ease of melting.
- Corn Syrup: Light corn syrup is generally recommended for its clear color and mild sweetness, allowing other flavors to shine. Dark corn syrup can be used in a pinch, but it will impart a slightly stronger, darker caramel flavor. Karo is my preferred brand.
- Butter: Yes, more butter! This additional butter in the topping ensures a luscious, smooth, and rich caramel-peanut butter mixture that’s essential for the classic nut roll taste.
- Vanilla: Again, pure vanilla extract is indispensable for its ability to round out and deepen the sweet flavors in the topping.
- Peanut Butter Chips: These are non-negotiable for achieving the authentic peanut buttery flavor of a salted nut roll. There’s truly no direct substitute that can replicate their distinct taste and texture when melted.
- Rice Krispies: These puffed rice cereal pieces add a delightful light crunch and texture to the top layer, contrasting beautifully with the chewy elements.
- Peanuts: For an authentic “salted nut roll” experience, you absolutely need salted and roasted peanuts. They provide the signature crunch and crucial salty counterpoint to the sweetness.
How to Make Delicious Homemade Salted Nut Roll Bars: A Step-by-Step Guide
Making these irresistible nutty, marshmallow bars is a delightful process, composed of three distinct and easy-to-assemble layers. Each layer builds upon the last to create a harmonious symphony of flavors and textures.
The journey begins with the bottom layer, a rich and buttery crust. This foundation is created by combining butter, brown sugar, vanilla, egg yolks, flour, baking soda, baking powder, and a touch of salt. These ingredients are meticulously mixed together, forming a dough that is then pressed into your baking dish to create a perfect, golden-brown base.
Once the crust has been baked to perfection, it’s generously topped with miniature marshmallows. These are then gently melted in the oven, transforming into a gooey, sweet, and soft marshmallow center that provides a wonderful contrast to the crust.
The final, crowning glory is the peanut buttery, caramelly, and peanut-packed topping. This luscious layer is made from a rich blend of butter, peanut butter chips, vanilla, and corn syrup, all melted together until smooth and perfectly integrated. To this dreamy mixture, crispy Rice Krispies and plenty of salted peanuts are stirred in, adding essential crunch and that signature salty balance. This delightful mixture is then spread evenly over the melted marshmallow layer, completing your homemade salted nut roll masterpiece.
First, you’ll prepare the crust. In a large mixing bowl, combine all the crust ingredients until well blended. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a foil-lined 9×13 inch baking dish. Bake according to recipe directions until golden and set.
Next, for the marshmallow center, sprinkle the miniature marshmallows evenly over the warm, baked crust. Return the dish to the oven for just a few minutes, allowing the marshmallows to melt and puff up. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
While the marshmallows cool, prepare the topping. In a saucepan, over very low heat, gently melt together the butter, vanilla, peanut butter chips, and corn syrup, stirring frequently until the mixture is completely smooth and cohesive. Remove from heat and carefully fold in the Rice Krispies and salted peanuts, ensuring they are well coated. Promptly and evenly spread this rich peanut butter mixture over the melted, gooey marshmallows.
Finally, allow the bars to cool completely to room temperature. This step is crucial for the layers to set properly, making them easy to cut into perfect squares. Once cooled, slice, serve, and enjoy your amazing homemade salted nut roll bars!
Love Them? Pin Them to Save for Later!
Don’t let this incredible recipe slip away when you’re craving a sweet and salty treat! Make sure to save these Salted Nut Roll Bars to your favorite Pinterest board before you leave. That way, they’ll be easy to find whenever the craving strikes!
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Salted Nut Roll Bars
- Storage: If by some miracle you happen to have any salted nut roll bars left, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. While they don’t strictly require refrigeration, you can certainly store them in the fridge if you prefer a firmer texture, which can also extend their freshness slightly.
- Freezing: These bars also freeze exceptionally well, making them perfect for meal prep or enjoying later. Simply wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They will maintain their quality in the freezer for 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Enhance the Saltiness: For an extra kick of salt, consider sprinkling a tiny bit of flaky sea salt over the top layer just after spreading it, before it sets. This will elevate the “salted” aspect of the nut roll beautifully.
- Even Layers: When pressing the crust and spreading the topping, try to make the layers as even as possible. This ensures uniform cooking and a consistent texture in every bite.
Copycat Recipes are the BEST!
If you love recreating your favorite treats at home, you’re in for a delight! Here are a couple of my other fantastic copycat candy bar recipes:
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Print Recipe
Salted Nut Roll Bars
Equipment
- 9×13 Pyrex Baking Dish with a Lid
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups flour
- 2/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 stick of salted butter (1/2 cup)
- 2 egg yolks
Topping
- 3 cups miniature marshmallows
- 2/3 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup butter (half of a stick)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
- 1 – 10 oz bag of peanut butter chips
- 2 cups of Rice Krispies
- 2 cups salted and roasted peanuts
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line a 9×13 inch baking dish with foil, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy lifting. Spray the foil with non-stick cooking spray. Set aside.
- Prepare the crust: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and vanilla until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg yolks one at a time until well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined and a soft dough forms.
- Press the prepared crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the foil-lined pan. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove the crust from the oven. Evenly sprinkle 3 cups of miniature marshmallows over the warm crust. Return to the oven for an additional 3 minutes, just until the marshmallows are puffed and slightly melted. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly while you prepare the topping.
- Prepare the topping: In a medium saucepan, combine the corn syrup, butter, vanilla, and peanut butter chips. Place over low heat and stir continuously until the peanut butter chips are completely melted and the mixture is smooth and well blended. Remove from heat.
- Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal and the salted and roasted peanuts into the warm peanut butter mixture until they are evenly coated.
- Immediately spread this peanut butter-peanut-Rice Krispies mixture evenly over the top of the melted marshmallows in the baking dish. Gently press down to ensure it adheres to the marshmallow layer.
- Allow the bars to cool completely to room temperature. This step is crucial for the bars to set properly. Once cooled, use the foil overhangs to lift the entire slab out of the pan. Place on a cutting board and cut into desired squares or bars using a sharp knife. Enjoy!
Nutrition
