Homemade Payday Candy Bars

Ingredients:

For the Peanut Caramel Filling:

• 2 cups dry roasted peanuts
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Coating:

• 2 cups white chocolate chips or candy melts
• 1 tablespoon vegetable shortening (optional, for smoother consistency)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Peanut Caramel Filling:

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, corn syrup, and butter. Stir until the mixture is smooth and the sugar has dissolved.
2. Add sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir continuously to prevent burning.
3. Continue cooking until the mixture reaches a temperature of 240°F (115°C) on a candy thermometer. This will take about 8-10 minutes.
4. Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly stir in the dry roasted peanuts until they are well coated.
5. Pour the peanut caramel mixture onto a parchment paper-lined baking sheet, spreading it evenly. Allow it to cool completely.
6. Once cooled, break the peanut caramel into small, bar-shaped pieces.

2. Coat the Bars:

1. Melt the white chocolate chips or candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl according to the package instructions. If desired, add vegetable shortening to achieve a smoother consistency.
2. Dip each peanut caramel bar into the melted white chocolate, coating it completely.
3. Place the coated bars on a parchment paper-lined tray or wire rack to allow excess chocolate to drip off.
4. Let the bars set until the chocolate coating hardens.
5. Optionally, you can drizzle additional melted chocolate on top for decoration.

3. Allow to Set:

1. Once the chocolate coating is completely set, your homemade Payday candy bars are ready to be enjoyed!
2. Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature.