There’s something irresistible about the combination of peanut butter, brown sugar, and a touch of vanilla. These Ultimate Peanut Butter Blondie Bars are rich, chewy, and oh-so-satisfying. Perfect for dessert lovers and snack enthusiasts alike, this recipe is easy to whip up with just a few pantry staples, making it a go-to treat for any occasion!
Imagine biting into a warm, melt-in-your-mouth blondie bar with peanut butter swirled into every single bite. Whether you’re hosting a party, baking for a potluck, or just craving something indulgent, these dreamy dessert bars will hit the sweet spot. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special!
The Story Behind Peanut Butter Blondie Bars
Blondies are often considered the “sassy cousin” of brownies. Where brownies boast chocolate, blondies carry the warm, caramel-like sweetness of brown sugar. Add peanut butter to the mix, and you’ve got a dessert that combines nostalgia with indulgence. Blondies have been around since the 19th century, but peanut butter blondies? That’s a modern twist worth celebrating.
For me, these bars bring back memories of after-school baking with my mom. We’d raid the pantry for peanut butter and chocolate chips, always ending up with sticky fingers and a messy kitchen. The scent of these bars baking in the oven is like a hug from the past. It’s comfort food at its finest.
This recipe has evolved over time. Initially, it was just a basic blondie, but after experimenting with different nut butters and add-ins, the peanut butter version became the family favorite. Plus, these bars are perfect year-round. They’re just as delightful served with a scoop of ice cream in the summer as they are enjoyed warm with a mug of hot cocoa in the winter.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk about the stars of this recipe and how to make them shine in your blondie bars.
- Peanut Butter: Smooth and creamy works best here. If you’re a fan of crunchy, you can use that too, but it will add texture. Natural peanut butter works, but make sure it’s well-stirred to avoid oily or dry spots.
- Brown Sugar: This is the key to that deep, caramel-like sweetness. Light or dark brown sugar both work, but dark will give a more robust flavor.
- Butter: Unsalted is ideal so you can control the saltiness. Melted butter is what makes these bars so rich and chewy.
- Eggs: They help bind everything together and add structure. Use room-temperature eggs for better mixing.
- Vanilla Extract: A good-quality vanilla extract makes all the difference in baked goods.
- All-Purpose Flour: The base of the blondies. For gluten-free options, you can substitute with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour.
- Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness.
- Chocolate Chips: Optional, but let’s be honest—chocolate and peanut butter are a match made in heaven.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can toss in some chopped peanuts or even swirl in a bit of Nutella for extra pizzazz. The beauty of this recipe is how adaptable it is.
Equipment Needed
You don’t need fancy gadgets to pull off these peanut butter blondie bars. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Mixing Bowls: One large for the batter and one smaller for any add-ins.
- Whisk and Spatula: A whisk for mixing the wet ingredients and a spatula for folding everything together.
- 8×8-inch Baking Pan: This size yields thick, chewy bars. Line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is key in baking, after all!
If you don’t have an 8×8-inch pan, a 9×9-inch will work; just keep an eye on the bake time since the bars will be slightly thinner.
How to Make Peanut Butter Blondie Bars
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup (120g) melted butter, 1 cup (200g) brown sugar, and 1/3 cup (85g) peanut butter until smooth and creamy.
- Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 2 large eggs, one at a time, whisking until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, folding gently with a spatula until just combined.
- Stir in 1/2 cup (90g) chocolate chips, if using, reserving a few to sprinkle on top.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the reserved chocolate chips on top for a pretty finish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Let the blondies cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Slice into squares and enjoy!
Pro tip: Slightly underbaking the blondies keeps them extra fudgy. Trust me, they’re worth the wait as they cool!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Blondies
- Don’t overmix: Overmixing can lead to tough blondies. Stir just until the flour disappears.
- Keep an eye on the edges: The edges should be golden brown, but the center will look slightly underdone when you remove them from the oven.
- Room-temperature ingredients: This helps everything blend more smoothly.
- Line your pan: Parchment paper makes it so much easier to lift out the blondies for clean slices.
Variations and Customizations
The sky’s the limit when it comes to making these bars your own! Here are a few ideas:
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1-to-1 baking flour.
- Nut-Free: Use sunflower butter or cookie butter for a peanut-free version.
- Swirl It Up: Add dollops of Nutella or jam to the batter before baking and swirl with a knife for a fun twist.
- Seasonal Add-Ins: Try white chocolate chips and dried cranberries during the holidays.
- Extra Crunch: Sprinkle chopped salted peanuts on top for added texture and flavor.
One time, I even added mini pretzels for a sweet-and-salty vibe—highly recommend it!
Serving and Storage Tips
These blondie bars are best served at room temperature, though slightly warm is heavenly. Pair them with a cold glass of milk, a hot cup of coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate dessert experience.
To store, place the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutritional Information and Benefits
While these peanut butter blondie bars are definitely a treat, they do offer a little protein boost thanks to the peanut butter. A typical serving (1 bar) is approximately:
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbs: 32g
- Sugar: 20g
Keep in mind that these values can vary based on your exact ingredients and any add-ins or substitutions. If you’re watching your sugar or calorie intake, you can reduce the chocolate chips or swap the sugar for a lower-glycemic alternative.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Ultimate Peanut Butter Blondie Bars are everything you want in a dessert—easy to make, loaded with flavor, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.
Have you tried these blondies yet? I’d love to hear how they turned out or what fun variations you came up with! Leave a comment below, snap a photo, and share it on social media. Let’s spread the peanut butter love!
FAQs About Peanut Butter Blondie Bars
Can I use chunky peanut butter?
Absolutely! Chunky peanut butter will add a bit of texture to the bars, which can be delicious.
Do I need to refrigerate these blondies?
No, they can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Refrigeration is optional but extends their freshness.
Can I make these blondies vegan?
Yes! Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water) in place of regular eggs and a vegan butter substitute.
What’s the best way to cut blondies cleanly?
Let them cool completely, then use a sharp knife dipped in warm water to slice through without crumbling.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, simply use a 9×13-inch pan and adjust the baking time to 30-35 minutes.