Irresistibly Chewy Peanut Butter Blondie Bars: The Ultimate Double Chip Delight

There are some flavor pairings in the culinary world that are simply iconic, timeless, and universally adored. Among them, the combination of rich, creamy peanut butter and sweet, melting chocolate reigns supreme. It’s a duo that evokes nostalgia, satisfies the deepest cravings, and rarely disappoints. For many of us, the love affair with peanut butter begins early. I vividly recall coming home from school, shedding my backpack, and making a beeline for the pantry. My mission? A spoon, a jar of peanut butter, and a cozy spot in front of the TV to watch cartoons. Pure, unadulterated bliss.

Even now, as an adult, that primal connection to peanut butter persists. It’s my go-to for a quick, satisfying snack—spread generously on crackers to tide me over until dinner, or simply enjoyed by the spoonful when a craving strikes. But when you introduce chocolate into the equation? That’s where the real magic happens. It transforms a simple pleasure into an extraordinary indulgence. I’ve ventured into countless chocolate and peanut butter concoctions, from dipping humble peanut butter crackers into a luscious chocolate coating (oh, sweet heaven!) to savoring the decadent layers of a chocolate and peanut butter mousse cheesecake (pure bliss in every single bite). Seriously, I have yet to discover a “wrong” way to enjoy this magnificent combination.

The Sweet Origin of Our Favorite Peanut Butter Blondies

The creation of these delightful Peanut Butter Blondie Bars was almost a happy accident, born out of a desire for something special and practical. It was nearly a year ago when my youngest child had a birthday approaching, and she wanted a memorable treat to share with her school class. My usual go-to, cupcakes, felt a bit overdone. I’d baked countless batches for various school events, and I was craving a fresh, exciting alternative. More importantly, I needed a dessert that could withstand the journey home, should the children decide to save their sweet treasure for later. A sturdy, portable treat was essential.

Enter the blondie. A delicious, chewy bar cookie that’s simpler to make than traditional cakes and robust enough for transport. Combining the classic blondie base with my unwavering love for peanut butter and chocolate seemed like the perfect solution. And oh, what a hit they were! The entire class absolutely adored them, making my daughter’s birthday celebration even sweeter and proving that sometimes, the best recipes arise from a simple need and a burst of inspiration. These blondies deliver on flavor, texture, and convenience – a true triple threat for any occasion.

What Makes These Peanut Butter Blondie Bars So Special?

Unlike their darker, cocoa-rich cousin the brownie, blondies are known for their golden hue and distinct vanilla and brown sugar flavor profile. They offer a wonderfully chewy texture and a buttery richness that is utterly irresistible. But what truly elevates these Peanut Butter Blondie Bars to legendary status is the generous inclusion of two kinds of chips: creamy peanut butter chips and classic mini chocolate chips. This “double chip” action ensures that every single bite is bursting with that beloved sweet and salty peanut butter and chocolate synergy.

The melted butter base creates an incredibly moist and dense bar, while the combination of brown sugar and granulated sugar contributes to both the chewiness and the perfect level of sweetness. The hint of vanilla extract enhances all the other flavors, making these blondies a truly harmonious treat. They are easy to whip up, require no fancy equipment, and come out of the oven smelling absolutely divine, filling your kitchen with a tempting aroma. Whether you’re a lifelong peanut butter enthusiast or just looking for a new favorite dessert, these blondie bars are guaranteed to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Tips for Baking the Perfect Blondies Every Time

Achieving that ideal chewy, moist blondie texture is surprisingly simple, but a few key tips can make all the difference, transforming a good blondie into an absolutely unforgettable one:

Don’t Overmix: Once you add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can lead to tough blondies instead of tender, melt-in-your-mouth ones. Stop mixing as soon as no dry streaks remain.
Melted Butter is Key: Using melted butter, as specified in the recipe, is crucial for that dense, chewy texture we all love in a blondie. Make sure the melted butter has cooled slightly before combining with the sugars so you don’t accidentally “cook” the eggs later.
Room Temperature Eggs: Eggs at room temperature emulsify better with the other ingredients, creating a smoother, more cohesive batter and promoting a more uniform bake. If you forget to take them out, place them in a bowl of warm water for 5-10 minutes.
Don’t Overbake: This is perhaps the most crucial tip for any bar cookie. Blondies will continue to set as they cool. Look for edges that are lightly golden brown and a center that seems just barely set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter, but definitely not completely dry either. Overbaking will result in dry, crumbly bars.
Cool Completely: Resist the urge to cut into them too soon! Letting the blondies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack allows them to firm up, making them much easier to cut cleanly into perfect squares and improving their overall chewy texture. Patience is a virtue when it comes to blondies!
Quality Ingredients: While this recipe uses common pantry staples, using good quality creamy peanut butter (not natural, separated styles unless specified) and fresh baking powder will significantly impact the overall flavor and optimal rise of your blondies.

Whether you’re baking for a school party, a casual get-together with friends, a special family event, or simply to treat yourself to something sweet, these Peanut Butter Blondie Bars are a reliable crowd-pleaser. They’re sweet, salty, utterly satisfying, and pack a delightful textural punch with every bite. The combination of chewy blondie, creamy peanut butter, and melting chocolate is truly unbeatable. Now, let’s get to the detailed recipe so you can start baking your own batch of happiness!

Peanut Butter Blondie Bars Recipe

Ingredients

3/4 cup butter, melted
1 1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 eggs
2 cups all purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup peanut butter chips
1 cup mini chocolate chips, divided

Instructions

In a small bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk together until well combined, then set aside. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, both brown and granulated sugars, and creamy peanut butter. Beat with an electric mixer (or by hand with a sturdy whisk) until the mixture is smooth and well combined, about 2-3 minutes.
Add in the vanilla extract and the eggs. Beat again until everything is fully incorporated and the batter is light and fluffy. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl.
Slowly add the prepared flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few streaks of flour are fine. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Gently fold in the peanut butter chips and 3/4 cup of the mini chocolate chips using a spatula. Reserve the remaining 1/4 cup of mini chocolate chips to sprinkle on top before baking. This adds a beautiful visual appeal.
Gently spread the dough evenly into a greased 9 x 13 inch baking pan. Sprinkle the reserved mini chocolate chips over the top of the dough.
Bake for 18-22 minutes in a preheated 350 degree F (175 C) oven. The blondies are done when the edges are set and lightly golden, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs, not wet batter. Avoid overbaking for the best chewy texture.
Allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting into squares. This step is crucial for achieving clean cuts and the perfect texture.

Notes

For an extra burst of flavor, try sprinkling a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of the blondies before baking – it beautifully enhances the sweet and savory notes. Store leftover blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to maintain their freshness, or freeze for longer storage (up to 3 months).

recipe source ChocolateChocolateandmore.com

Did you make this recipe?

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Beyond Blondies: Why Bar Recipes Are a Baker’s Best Friend

If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for desserts that are not only delicious but also practical and easy to manage. That’s where bar recipes truly shine! They offer unparalleled convenience, making them a baker’s best friend in the kitchen. Unlike individual cookies or cupcakes that require constant monitoring and often multiple batches, bars are baked in a single pan, resulting in less fuss and less cleanup. They’re incredibly simple to portion, perfect for feeding a crowd, packing in lunchboxes, or taking to potlucks and parties. Their sturdy nature makes them travel-friendly, eliminating the worry of smushed frosting or delicate decorations. Plus, bars are wonderfully versatile; almost any flavor combination can be transformed into a delicious bar, offering endless possibilities for creativity in the kitchen.

Craving more amazing bar recipes to add to your repertoire? You’ve come to the right place! Here are some other fantastic bar recipes that are sure to delight, each offering a unique twist on the classic dessert bar:

More Irresistible Bar Recipes to Explore:

Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Cereal Bars

Why confine cereal to breakfast when it can be the star of a delightful dessert? These no-bake Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Cereal Bars are a dream come true for anyone who loves quick and easy treats. Combining crunchy cereal with rich, creamy peanut butter and a luscious chocolate coating, they offer a satisfying blend of textures and flavors. They’re perfect for a quick snack, a lunchbox surprise, or when you need a sweet fix without turning on the oven, ideal for busy days or warm weather.

Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars

Prepare yourself for a dessert mashup that’s utterly irresistible! These Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars bring together two beloved treats: creamy, tangy cheesecake and sweet, chocolate chip cookie dough. The result is a layered bar that is rich, decadent, and bursting with flavor. With a buttery crust, a luscious cheesecake filling, and generous chunks of edible cookie dough swirled throughout, it’s a dessert that’s sure to impress at any gathering or special occasion.

Lemon Pie Bars

For those who prefer a zesty, refreshing dessert, these Lemon Pie Bars are an absolute delight. They capture all the vibrant, tangy flavor of a classic lemon pie but in the convenient, portable form of a bar. With a buttery shortbread crust and a smooth, brightly flavored lemon filling, often topped with a delicate dusting of powdered sugar, these bars are perfect for spring and summer gatherings or anytime you need a burst of citrusy sweetness to brighten your day.

Chocolate Chip Brownies

Sometimes, simplicity is key, and these Chocolate Chip Brownies deliver on that promise with every fudgy bite. A perfect blend of rich cocoa and melty chocolate chips, these brownies are a staple for a reason. They’re easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and always a crowd-pleaser for any chocolate lover. Whether you like them dense and fudgy or a little more cakey, this versatile recipe will guide you to brownie perfection, making them an ideal treat for any time.

Gooey Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars

Transform the beloved Southern classic, pecan pie, into a convenient and even more decadent bar form with these Gooey Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars. Featuring a buttery shortbread crust topped with a rich, caramel-like filling packed with crunchy pecans and sweet chocolate, these bars are wonderfully gooey and utterly irresistible. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings, special occasions, or when you want a sophisticated dessert with a comforting touch that’s easier to serve than a traditional pie.

Nutty Toffee Bars

For those who appreciate a delightful crunch in their dessert, these Nutty Toffee Bars are an absolute must-try. A buttery shortbread base is topped with a rich, chewy layer packed with a variety of nuts and irresistible toffee bits, creating a symphony of textures and flavors. These bars are simple to make but taste incredibly gourmet, making them perfect for gifting, a sophisticated coffee break treat, or simply indulging your sweet tooth.

Cream Cheese Squares

Simple yet profoundly satisfying, these Cream Cheese Squares feature a delightful contrast between a tender, slightly crumbly crust and a smooth, creamy, and subtly tangy cream cheese filling. They are a classic dessert that never goes out of style, offering a light sweetness that’s perfect for brunch, an afternoon treat with coffee, or a refreshing end to any meal. Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser, these squares are a testament to classic flavors.

50 Bar Recipes

Still hungry for more amazing bar dessert ideas? Dive into a treasure trove of inspiration with this comprehensive collection of 50 Bar Recipes! From fudgy brownies and chewy blondies to fruity squares and decadent layered bars, this extensive list proves that bars really do take less time to make and offer endless variations for every taste and occasion. Whether you need a quick dessert for a weeknight, something impressive for a party, or ideas for edible gifts, you’re sure to find your next favorite bar recipe here.

Conclusion: Bake, Share, and Enjoy!

These Peanut Butter Blondie Bars are more than just a dessert; they’re a celebration of one of the best flavor combinations known to humanity. With their irresistible chewiness, rich peanut butter flavor, and bursts of both peanut butter and chocolate chips, they are guaranteed to become a family favorite and a go-to for any sweet craving. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake a batch of pure happiness. Don’t forget to share your delicious creations with us – and, of course, enjoy every single delightful bite!