If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the irresistible tastes of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate, this Chocolate Peanut Butter Stacks Recipe is exactly what you need. These little sandwich-style stacks bring together crunchy Ritz crackers, velvety peanut butter, and fluffy marshmallow creme, all enrobed in smooth, luscious chocolate. Perfectly bite-sized and festive with optional holiday sprinkles, they make an easy yet impressive sweet snack that’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert lineup.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Using just a handful of staple ingredients that each play a key role, you’ll achieve a perfect blend of flavors and textures—from crunch to creaminess and rich chocolatey goodness.
- 48 Ritz crackers: These buttery, flaky crackers bring a satisfyingly crisp base and top for your stacks.
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter: Smooth and nutty, it adds luscious flavor and a tender texture inside.
- ½ cup marshmallow creme: Light and fluffy, this sweet binder creates a dreamy filling that balances the peanut butter.
- 1 pound (16 ounces) chocolate, coarsely chopped and melted: Choose your favorite chocolate to enrobe the stacks with a silky, glossy finish.
- Holiday sprinkles (optional): For a festive pop of color and texture, perfect if you’re making these for a celebration or gift.
How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Stacks Recipe
Step 1: Prep your workspace
Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment or wax paper—this simple step ensures your stacks won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Whip up the filling
In a medium bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and marshmallow creme, stirring until the mixture is smooth and well blended. This luscious filling is the heart of your stacks.
Step 3: Assemble the stacks
Spread a small dollop of the peanut butter-marshmallow mix onto 24 Ritz crackers. Then carefully top each one with another cracker to form neat little sandwiches. A gentle press ensures everything sticks together without squishing the filling out.
Step 4: Dip in chocolate
Using a fork or dipping tool, fully coat each sandwich in the melted chocolate. This creates a smooth, decadent shell that’s both eye-catching and delicious.
Step 5: Set your treats
Place each chocolate-coated stack onto your prepared baking sheet. If you want to add a festive touch, sprinkle holiday sprinkles on top now while the chocolate is still soft.
Step 6: Let them harden
Allow the chocolate to set at room temperature or pop the baking sheet into the fridge if you want them ready sooner. Once firm, your Chocolate Peanut Butter Stacks are ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Stacks Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt over the chocolate before it sets creates a perfect salty-sweet balance. Alternatively, festive holiday sprinkles can bring color and fun, especially for seasonal gatherings.
Side Dishes
Pair these stacks with a cup of hot coffee or a glass of cold milk for an indulgent snack break. They also complement ice cream nicely if you want to serve a simple, no-fuss dessert platter.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack these treats beautifully on a tiered dessert stand for parties, or wrap them in colored parchment and tie with a ribbon as sweet handmade gifts. You can even arrange them with fresh berries or edible flowers for a stunning display.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Chocolate Peanut Butter Stacks in an airtight container at room temperature if you plan to eat them within a couple of days. Keeping them out of direct heat prevents the chocolate from melting prematurely.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the stacks in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. This prevents them from sticking together, and they’ll keep well for up to a month.
Reheating
These stacks are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so no reheating is necessary. Just let frozen stacks thaw for 10 to 15 minutes at room temperature before serving—they’ll be perfectly delicious without any heat needed.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter can add an extra textural element to your stacks, giving each bite a delightful surprise of peanuts. Just keep in mind it might make spreading a bit trickier.
What type of chocolate works best for dipping?
Semi-sweet or dark chocolate melts beautifully and balances the sweetness of the filling, but milk chocolate is an equally delicious choice if you prefer a sweeter finish. Just choose a good-quality chocolate for the best results.
Is marshmallow creme necessary for the filling?
The marshmallow creme adds fluffiness and sweetness that lightens the peanut butter mixture. Without it, the filling may be too dense or sticky, so it’s recommended to keep it as part of the recipe.
Can I make these stacks gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the Ritz crackers for your favorite gluten-free snack crackers. Just make sure the crackers are sturdy enough to hold up when dipped in chocolate and stacked.
How long do these stacks last?
At room temperature, they’re best eaten within 2 to 3 days to ensure freshness and texture. Stored properly in the fridge, they can last up to a week, but be aware the crackers might soften over time.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly satisfying about the combination of peanut butter, marshmallow creme, and chocolate—especially when it’s all nestled between two crisp crackers. I promise once you try this Chocolate Peanut Butter Stacks Recipe, it will become your go-to for quick and crowd-pleasing sweets. So gather your ingredients, dip into some delicious fun, and share a batch with friends or family—they’ll be asking for the recipe in no time!
