Indulge in the nostalgic sweetness of homemade O Henry Candy Bars, a decadent treat that combines layers of creamy nougat, rich peanut-caramel, and a smooth chocolate coating. Perfectly balanced with salty roasted peanuts and a touch of marshmallow fluff, these bars are both chewy and crunchy, delivering a delightful texture in every bite. Made from scratch with simple pantry staples like granulated sugar, peanut butter, and semisweet chocolate chips, this recipe brings the beloved classic candy bar to your kitchen. Ideal for sharing or savoring as a special dessert, these homemade candy bars are a crowd-pleaser thatβs worth every step. Whether you're looking for a fun weekend baking project or a nostalgic gift idea, these O Henry-inspired candy bars are the ultimate sweet indulgence!
Line a 9x13 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease the paper.
In a medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar, light corn syrup, water, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves.
Increase the heat to medium-high and stop stirring. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook until it reaches 240Β°F (soft ball stage) on a candy thermometer.
Remove the pan from heat and quickly stir in the peanut butter and marshmallow fluff until smooth and fully incorporated. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly to form the nougat layer. Let it cool completely.
In another medium saucepan, combine light brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches a boil.
Continue cooking without stirring until it reaches 245β250Β°F (firm ball stage) on a candy thermometer. Remove from heat and stir in the roasted peanuts.
Pour the hot peanut-caramel mixture evenly over the nougat layer and allow it to cool completely until firm.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semisweet chocolate chips and vegetable oil. Microwave on 50% power in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is melted and smooth.
Remove the candy slab from the dish using the parchment overhang and place it on a cutting board. Cut into desired bar shapes (approximately 24 bars).
Dip each candy bar into the melted chocolate, ensuring it's fully coated. Place the coated bars on a wire rack or parchment paper to set.
Allow the chocolate coating to harden completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator before serving.
Calories |
8567 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 443.3 g | 568% | |
| Saturated Fat | 187.9 g | 940% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 41.9 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 364 mg | 121% | |
| Sodium | 2141 mg | 93% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 1123.4 g | 409% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 60.0 g | 214% | |
| Total Sugars | 996.7 g | ||
| Protein | 123.3 g | 247% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 668 mg | 51% | |
| Iron | 22.1 mg | 123% | |
| Potassium | 4193 mg | 89% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.