Peanut Butter Blondies

These Peanut Butter Blondies are an irresistible treat that boasts a soft, chewy texture and a delightful peanut butter flavor. Loaded with colorful Reese’s Pieces and rich chocolate chips, they are perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual get-togethers. Easy to make in just one bowl without needing a mixer, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just one bowl required, cleanup is a breeze.
• Deliciously Indulgent: The combination of peanut butter, chocolate chips, and Reese’s Pieces creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
• Versatile Dessert: Great for parties, potlucks, or as an everyday snack!
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out the candies for your favorites or add nuts for some crunch.
• Perfectly Chewy: The texture strikes a balance between gooey and firm, making them hard to resist!

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making these blondies, gather the necessary tools to make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Parchment paper or cooking spray
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking pan: A good-quality pan ensures even baking and prevents sticking.
• Whisk: Perfect for mixing ingredients smoothly without lumps.
• Rubber spatula: Ideal for folding in ingredients gently while keeping the batter light.

Ingredients

For the Blondies

• 2/3 cup unsalted butter (170 grams)
• 3/4 cup peanut butter (about 270 grams)
• 2 cups light brown sugar (420 grams)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla
• 3 large eggs
• 2 cups all-purpose flour (250 grams)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup Reese’s Pieces (about 140 grams)
• 3/4 cup chocolate chips (about 120 grams)

How to Make Peanut Butter Blondies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350F (180C) degrees. This ensures that your blondies will bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Line a 9×13 inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal later. Alternatively, lightly grease the pan if you don’t have parchment.

Step 3: Melt Butter and Peanut Butter

In a large, microwave-safe bowl, melt together the unsalted butter and peanut butter. Stir until smooth once it’s almost completely melted.

Step 4: Mix in Sugar and Eggs

Whisk in the light brown sugar, followed by the eggs and vanilla extract. Mix until there are no visible pieces of egg.

Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients

Gently fold in the all-purpose flour and salt. Stop mixing when you no longer see streaks or lumps of flour.

Step 6: Incorporate Candies

Fold in the Reese’s Pieces and chocolate chips, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 7: Bake

Spoon or pour the batter into your prepared pan. Spread it out smoothly on top. Bake in your preheated oven for about 30 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few damp crumbs. If you prefer less gooey bars, bake for an additional five minutes.

Step 8: Cool and Slice

Allow the bars to cool in the pan. When ready to slice, use the parchment overhang to lift them out. Place on a cutting board and cut with a thin knife. If you’ve greased the pan, simply cut directly in it.

Enjoy your deliciously chewy Peanut Butter Blondies!

How to Serve Peanut Butter Blondies

Peanut butter blondies are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet night at home, these blondies can be paired with different accompaniments for an enhanced experience.

Pair with Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic combination that balances the rich peanut butter flavor.
• Chocolate Ice Cream: Adds a decadent touch that complements the chocolate chips in the blondies.

Drizzle with Sauce

• Caramel Sauce: A warm drizzle enhances sweetness and adds a lovely texture.
• Chocolate Syrup: Perfect for chocolate lovers looking for an extra indulgence.

Enjoy with Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Bananas: Fresh bananas add a creamy texture and mild sweetness.
• Berries: Strawberries or raspberries provide a tart contrast to the rich blondies.

Serve with Coffee or Tea

• Brewed Coffee: The bitterness of coffee pairs well with the sweetness of blondies.
• Herbal Tea: A calming option that complements the nutty flavors without overpowering them.

How to Perfect Peanut Butter Blondies

Getting your peanut butter blondies just right can elevate your dessert game. Here are some helpful tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time.

• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use kitchen scales or measuring cups for precise ingredient amounts, ensuring consistent results.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until combined to keep your blondies soft and chewy instead of dense.
• Check Baking Time: Start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time; every oven is different.
• Let Them Cool Completely: Allowing blondies to cool helps them set properly, making slicing easier without crumbling.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Blondies

Pair your peanut butter blondies with these delicious side dishes to create a balanced dessert experience. Each option enhances the overall enjoyment of this sweet treat.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits offers refreshing flavors and adds vibrant color to your dessert table.
2. Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream provides a creamy contrast that complements the rich blondies beautifully.
3. Nutty Granola: Crushed granola adds crunch and additional flavor—try it sprinkled on top of each slice!
4. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: Sweet and salty, these pretzels add a fun twist that pairs well with peanut butter.
5. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with fresh fruit and granola for a creamy side dish that balances sweetness.
6. Cheese Platter: Add some variety by serving with mild cheeses; their creaminess contrasts nicely with the blondie’s texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making peanut butter blondies can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls to avoid for the best results.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using too much or too little of an ingredient can affect the texture and taste. Always use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to tough blondies. Mix just until combined, ensuring flour streaks disappear.
• Skipping the parchment paper: Not lining the baking pan can result in sticky blondies that are hard to remove. Use parchment paper for easy lifting and cleanup.
• Not cooling before slicing: Cutting into warm blondies can cause them to fall apart. Allow them to cool completely for the best texture and presentation.
• Ignoring baking time: Every oven is different; check your blondies a few minutes before the recommended time. Adjust as needed based on your preference for gooeyness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Peanut Butter Blondies

• Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Peanut Butter Blondies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat for 15-20 seconds at a time until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat!
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these Peanut Butter Blondies chewy?

The combination of peanut butter and brown sugar creates a chewy texture. Make sure not to overmix for the best results.

Can I use natural peanut butter in this recipe?

Yes! Natural peanut butter works well, but ensure it’s well-stirred and has a similar consistency to regular peanut butter.

How do I store leftover Peanut Butter Blondies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Can I customize the mix-ins?

Definitely! Feel free to add nuts, dried fruits, or other chocolate varieties based on your preferences.

Final Thoughts

These Peanut Butter Blondies are a delightful treat that combines rich flavors with a chewy texture. Perfect as a dessert or snack, they can easily be customized with various add-ins like nuts or different chocolates. Try making this recipe today and enjoy the deliciousness!