Peanut butter blondies offer a delightful twist on the traditional brownie—trading cocoa for creamy peanut butter while maintaining that same indulgent, fudgy texture. These bars are dense, chewy, and packed with nutty sweetness, making them a standout treat for any dessert table.
Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dessert, baking for a crowd, or simply satisfying a sweet craving, these peanut butter blondies come together effortlessly and are guaranteed to impress.
Why This Recipe Works
- Effortless Preparation: No mixer required—this is a one-bowl recipe that streamlines both the process and cleanup.
- Ideal Texture: Soft and gooey in the center with perfectly crisp edges, thanks to just the right ratio of ingredients.
- Well-Balanced Flavor: Creamy peanut butter and brown sugar create a harmonious blend of sweet and salty.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with your choice of chocolate chips, candies, or nuts.
- Reliable Crowd Favorite: Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or everyday snacking.
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients
- 3/4 cup (170g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 2 cups (400g) packed brown sugar (light for mild sweetness or dark for deeper flavor)
- 3/4 cup (190g) creamy peanut butter (processed brands like Jif or Skippy recommended)
- 2 large eggs + 1 additional yolk
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
Optional Mix-Ins
- 1 1/4 cups (260g) Reese’s Pieces
- Chocolate chips (semisweet or milk)
- Chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
- Extra toppings (sprinkle additional chocolate chips or candies over the top before baking)
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk and spatula
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper (with overhang for easy removal)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Toothpick (for doneness testing)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper, allowing a bit of overhang on the sides.
2. Prepare the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until fully combined. Add the peanut butter and whisk until smooth. Incorporate the eggs, yolk, and vanilla extract.
3. Add the Dry Ingredients
Using a spatula, gently fold in the flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir only until no streaks of flour remain. Overmixing may lead to a dense texture.
4. Mix in the Additions
Fold in your desired mix-ins, such as Reese’s Pieces or chocolate chips, until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
5. Bake
Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. For presentation, sprinkle a few extra mix-ins on top. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.
6. Cool and Slice
Allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, lift them out using the parchment overhang and cut into squares.
Expert Tips for Success
- Measure Flour Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid compacting the flour, which can result in dry blondies.
- Don’t Overbake: The center should be slightly underdone when removed from the oven, as the blondies will continue to set while cooling.
- Cool Before Cutting: Slicing too early can result in crumbly or uneven bars. Letting them cool ensures clean, precise cuts.
Flavor Variations
Chocolate Swirl
Add a swirl of melted chocolate to the batter before baking for a marbled effect and deeper flavor.
Nutty Crunch
Incorporate toasted walnuts, pecans, or almonds for added texture and a complementary nuttiness.
Candy Mix
Mix in M&Ms, peanut butter chips, or white chocolate chips for a colorful and flavorful twist.
Frosted Finish
Once cooled, top with a peanut butter or chocolate frosting. A drizzle of caramel or melted chocolate adds an elegant touch.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
- Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce for added indulgence
- Pair with milk or coffee for a satisfying afternoon snack or dessert
Storage & Freezing
Room Temperature
Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days in a cool, dry place.
Refrigeration
Keep refrigerated for up to 1 week. Bring to room temperature before serving for best texture.
Freezing
Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use natural peanut butter?
It’s not recommended for this recipe. Natural peanut butter can separate and affect both texture and consistency. Use a smooth, processed variety for best results.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not as written, but you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking blend that includes xanthan gum or a similar binder.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes. For larger gatherings, double the ingredients and bake in a 12×18-inch pan. Adjust baking time accordingly—check for doneness around 35–40 minutes.
Conclusion
These peanut butter blondies are an excellent addition to any dessert repertoire. Easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and always delicious, they strike the perfect balance of chewy, sweet, and nutty. Whether enjoyed plain, topped, or paired with your favorite beverage, they’re sure to satisfy every sweet tooth.