I love how this recipe turns the simplest pantry staples into a warm, comforting dessert that feels far more indulgent than it should. Poor Man’s Treats are crunchy, gooey, sweet, and salty all at once, and I always appreciate how quickly they come together. When I want a no-fuss treat without spending much time or money, this recipe is one I gladly rely on.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I enjoy this recipe because it is incredibly easy and budget-friendly. I like that I don’t need any special equipment or advanced baking skills to make it work. The contrast between the crisp crackers, creamy peanut butter, and toasted marshmallows is always satisfying, and I find it perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
16 crackers (Saltines or Ritz)
½ cup peanut butter
16 standard-size marshmallows
Directions
I start by preheating the broiler and lining a baking sheet. I arrange the crackers in a single layer on the baking sheet. I spread about one teaspoon of peanut butter onto each cracker, covering most of the surface. I gently press one marshmallow into the peanut butter on each cracker. I place the baking sheet under the broiler and watch very closely as the marshmallows toast. Once they turn lightly golden and puffed, I remove them immediately and let them cool slightly before serving.
Servings And Timing
I usually get about 16 treats from this recipe. Prep time takes around 5 minutes, and cooking time is about 1 to 2 minutes under the broiler. The total time from start to finish is roughly 7 minutes.
Variations
I sometimes use almond butter or another nut butter in place of peanut butter for a different flavor. I also enjoy adding a small square of chocolate on top of the peanut butter before placing the marshmallow to create a s’mores-style treat. When I want extra richness, I choose buttery crackers instead of plain ones.
Storage/Reheating
I think these treats are best eaten right away while the marshmallows are still warm and soft inside. If I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day. I reheat them briefly in the oven or toaster oven, keeping a close eye so they do not over-toast.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
I can use crunchy peanut butter, but I prefer smooth because it spreads more evenly on the crackers.
Do I need to grease the baking sheet?
I usually line the baking sheet, which makes cleanup easier and prevents sticking.
Can I make these in advance?
I don’t recommend making them far in advance because the texture is best when fresh.
Are these treats very sweet?
I find the sweetness balanced nicely by the saltiness of the crackers and peanut butter.
Can I double the recipe?
I often double the recipe when serving more people, making sure to use multiple baking sheets if needed.
Conclusion
I love how Poor Man’s Treats prove that simple ingredients can create something truly satisfying. They are quick, comforting, and easy to customize, making them perfect for last-minute cravings. Whenever I want a warm, crunchy, and gooey dessert without much effort, this recipe is always a winner for me.
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Poor Man’s Treats
A quick, budget-friendly dessert made with crackers, peanut butter, and marshmallows that turns simple pantry staples into a crunchy, gooey, sweet-and-salty treat.
- Total Time: 7 minutes
- Yield: 16 treats
Ingredients
- 16 crackers (Saltines or Ritz)
- ½ cup peanut butter
- 16 standard-size marshmallows
Instructions
- Preheat the broiler and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Arrange the crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Spread about 1 teaspoon of peanut butter evenly over each cracker.
- Gently press one marshmallow into the peanut butter on each cracker.
- Place the baking sheet under the broiler and watch carefully.
- Broil for 1–2 minutes, until marshmallows are puffed and lightly golden.
- Remove immediately from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Watch closely while broiling, as marshmallows brown very quickly.
- These treats are best enjoyed fresh and warm.
- Use buttery crackers for a richer flavor.
- Line the baking sheet for easy cleanup.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Broiling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 treat
- Calories: 95
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
