Pay Day Candy Bar Recipe

Relive the nostalgic crunch of a PayDay candy bar with this homemade recipe! In 1996, Hershey's acquired the iconic PayDay, and now you can recreate this delicious peanut and caramel treat at home. This recipe meticulously guides you through creating the creamy white fudge center, the rich caramel coating, and the perfect peanut layering—resulting in eight irresistible candy bars. Get ready for a fun and rewarding baking experience that tastes just like the real thing (but maybe schedule that dental appointment just in case!).

Prep Time 30 mins
Cook Time 90 mins
Calories 541.9 kcal
Protein 30g
Rating 3.7 (3 Reviews)
Pay Day Candy Bar 15

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Pay Day Candy Bar

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How to Make Pay Day Candy Bar

  1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine peanut butter, powdered sugar, evaporated milk, and butter. Stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and melted.
  2. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring continuously. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature. Cook until the mixture reaches 235°F (113°C) – the soft-ball stage.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. Pour the fudge mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let it cool completely to room temperature.
  5. Once cooled, in a separate saucepan, combine the caramel candies and heavy cream over low heat. Stir until the caramel is completely melted and smooth.
  6. Spread a thin layer of the melted caramel over the cooled fudge mixture. Do not let the caramel cool completely.
  7. Immediately press the roasted peanuts firmly onto the caramel layer.
  8. Once the caramel has set slightly, cut the peanut-covered fudge into eight equal bars.
  9. Allow the bars to cool and set completely before serving and enjoying your homemade PayDay bars!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

25 g

Sugar

170g

Fat

24g

Carbs

19g