Peanut Butter Fritos Candy Recipe

Introduction

I recently made these Peanut Butter Fritos Candies for a family gathering, and they were an absolute hit! The sweet and salty combination of peanut butter, Fritos, and chocolate was a perfect balance, and everyone kept coming back for more. What I love about this recipe is how quick and easy it is to make, yet it tastes like something you’d find at a gourmet candy shop. The crunchy Fritos add a surprising texture to the creamy peanut butter mixture, and the drizzle of chocolate on top makes them extra indulgent. My family couldn’t stop raving about these treats, and they were gone in no time! This Peanut Butter Fritos Candy will definitely be a new go-to treat for any occasion, whether it’s for a party or just a sweet snack at home.

Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Fritos Candy Recipe

This Peanut Butter Fritos Candy recipe is a delightful twist on traditional candy, combining the familiar flavors of peanut butter and chocolate with a salty crunch from Fritos. The mixture of sugar, corn syrup, and peanut butter creates a sweet, creamy base that perfectly coats the crispy Fritos, while the chocolate drizzle on top adds an extra layer of sweetness. It’s a fun, no-bake treat that’s ready in just 35 minutes, making it a perfect last-minute candy for parties, holidays, or anytime you need a quick and delicious dessert. The recipe is also easily customizable with the addition of sprinkles or other toppings, giving it a festive touch that can suit any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 14 oz Fritos (approximately 1.5 bags of 9.25 oz bags)
• 1 cup chocolate chips or melting chocolate
• Sprinkles (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tray:

• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat and set it aside. This will prevent the candies from sticking and make for easy cleanup.

2. Cook the Base Mixture:

• In a large pot, combine the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and creamy peanut butter.
• Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the ingredients are fully incorporated, and the mixture begins to bubble. Once it starts bubbling, continue stirring for another minute to ensure everything is fully melted and smooth.

3. Mix with Fritos:

• Remove the pot from heat and gently fold in the Fritos, making sure they are well coated with the peanut butter mixture. Be careful not to crush the chips while stirring.

4. Shape the Candies:

• Using a cookie scoop or large spoon, scoop portions of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
• You can adjust the size of the candies as desired, aiming for about 1.5–2 tablespoons per candy. Allow the candies to sit on the baking sheet while they cool.

5. Set the Candies:

• Allow the candies to cool and set at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes. They will firm up as they cool, and you’ll be able to handle them easily.

6. Melt the Chocolate:

• In a small microwaveable bowl, melt the chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until smooth and fully melted.

7. Decorate the Candies:

• Use a fork or spoon to drizzle the melted chocolate over the candies. If desired, top with sprinkles for a festive touch. This adds an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal.

8. Cool and Serve:

• Let the candies cool completely until the chocolate is set.
• Serve immediately or store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, 1 candy)

• Serving Size: 1 candy
• Calories: 160
• Sugar: 17g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 1mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 24 candies

How to Serve

• For Parties: Serve these candies in a decorative bowl at parties or gatherings for a fun and easy treat.
• Gift Them: Package the candies in cute treat bags or jars as a homemade gift for holidays or special occasions.
• Snack Time: These candies are perfect for a quick snack, offering a satisfying mix of salty, sweet, and crunchy.
• Serve with Ice Cream: These candies can be used as a topping for ice cream or frozen yogurt for a fun dessert twist.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Fritos: Ensure the Fritos are fresh so they have the best crunch. Stale chips may affect the texture of the candies.
2. Customizing the Chocolate: Feel free to use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate if you prefer a different flavor profile.
3. Avoid Overheating the Chocolate: When melting the chocolate, be sure to stir every 30 seconds to avoid burning it. Once melted, it should be smooth and easy to drizzle.
4. Add Toppings: Sprinkles, chopped peanuts, or even mini marshmallows can be added as toppings for extra texture and flavor.
5. Store Properly: Store the candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want to store them longer, keep them in the refrigerator.

FAQ

1. Can I use a different type of chip instead of Fritos? Yes, you can use any salty snack like pretzels, potato chips, or even tortilla chips for a different texture and flavor.
2. Can I make this recipe with crunchy peanut butter? Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter for added texture if you prefer. It will change the mouthfeel but still work great in this recipe.
3. Can I add more chocolate? Absolutely! If you love chocolate, you can increase the amount of chocolate chips or drizzle more over the candies.
4. Can I make these candies ahead of time? Yes, these candies can be made ahead of time. They store well in an airtight container for up to a week at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
5. What kind of chocolate should I use? You can use any type of melting chocolate or chocolate chips—milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or white chocolate, depending on your preference.
6. Can I freeze these candies? Yes, these candies freeze well. Store them in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
7. Do I have to use a cookie scoop? No, you can use a spoon to portion out the candy mixture. A cookie scoop helps make uniform portions but is not necessary.
8. How do I prevent the chocolate from seizing? Be sure to melt the chocolate in small increments and stir after each interval. Adding a little vegetable oil or shortening can help keep it smooth.
9. Can I make these candies without corn syrup? The corn syrup is essential for binding the mixture and providing the right texture, so I wouldn’t recommend omitting it.
10. What if I don’t want to use sprinkles? Sprinkles are optional! You can leave them out or substitute them with other toppings like crushed nuts, candy pieces, or sea salt for a more sophisticated look.

Conclusion

These Peanut Butter Fritos Candies are a deliciously addictive treat that combines sweet and salty flavors in the best way possible. They’re easy to make, quick to assemble, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a party, giving them as a gift, or enjoying them as a snack, these candies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a batch of these irresistible candies that everyone will love. Try them out, and enjoy the perfect balance of crunchy, salty, and sweet in every bite!

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