Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies

Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies are the perfect treat for any occasion, bringing the nostalgic flavors of campfire s’mores to a delightful blondie bar. These chewy and gooey bars combine rich peanut butter with sweet vegan marshmallows and chocolate chips, making them a crowd-pleaser at parties, picnics, or cozy nights in. Easy to make and utterly delicious, they promise to satisfy your sweet cravings!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for last-minute dessert cravings.
• Decadent Flavor: The combination of peanut butter, chocolate, and marshmallow creates an indulgent taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for gatherings, lunchboxes, or as a comforting snack during movie nights.
• Kid-Friendly: A fun recipe to bake with children, creating lasting memories in the kitchen.
• Store Well: These blondies can be stored for days without losing their delightful texture.

Tools and Preparation

To make Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies efficiently, having the right tools is essential. Below are the must-have items you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8 by 8-inch metal pan
• Parchment paper or foil
• Mixing bowls
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Whisk
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• 8 by 8-inch metal pan: This size ensures even baking and helps the blondies achieve that perfect chewy texture.
• Mixing bowls: Using different sizes allows for organized mixing of ingredients without spills.
• Spatula: An essential tool for spreading batter evenly and scraping every bit from the bowl.

Ingredients

Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies require simple yet flavorful ingredients that come together beautifully.

For the Blondies Base

• 6 tablespoons (85 grams) unsalted butter
• 3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons (175 grams) brown sugar (preferably dark brown)
• 1/2 cup (135 grams) creamy natural peanut butter (very well stirred)
• 1 cup (127 grams) all-purpose flour
• ½ cup (57 grams) graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/8 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt

For the Marshmallow Layer

• 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk (at room temperature)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup (104 grams) vegan marshmallows crème

For Topping

• 1 cup (170 grams) semisweet chocolate chips

How to Make Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line an 8 by 8-inch light-colored metal pan with parchment or foil, leaving an overhang on all sides. Spray with nonstick baking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Melt the Butter Mixture

In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, add in the brown sugar and creamy peanut butter. Stir until smooth and allow it to cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, graham cracker crumbs, baking powder, baking soda, and fine sea salt. Mix well and set aside.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Whisk the egg and egg yolk into the cooled peanut butter mixture one at a time. Make sure to whisk well after each addition. Add vanilla extract and stir until combined. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined; expect a thick dough.

Step 5: Layering the Blondies

Press two-thirds of the dough into your prepared pan evenly across its base. Dollop vegan marshmallows crème around this layer before smoothing it out as evenly as possible over the dough. Sprinkle chocolate chips on top of this layer.

Step 6: Final Dough Layer

Using your hands, take portions of remaining dough and flatten them slightly. Place these pieces over the marshmallow layer so that about two-thirds of it is covered.

Step 7: Bake Your Blondies

Bake for about 26-28 minutes until the center is slightly jiggly but edges are golden brown. Avoid overbaking to keep them moist. Allow cooling completely before cutting into squares.

Step 8: Store Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days to keep them fresh.

Enjoy your delicious Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies!

How to Serve Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies

Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies are delightful on their own but can be enhanced with a few serving suggestions. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy these chewy treats.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla or chocolate ice cream pairs beautifully with the warm, gooey blondies for a classic dessert experience.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• A generous drizzle of chocolate sauce adds an extra touch of indulgence and makes each bite even more decadent.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Light and fluffy whipped cream complements the rich flavors of the blondies, adding a refreshing contrast.

Served with Fresh Berries

• Fresh strawberries or raspberries provide a fruity balance, brightening up the sweet richness of the blondies.

With a Side of Nut Butter

• A dollop of additional peanut or almond butter serves as a perfect dip for those who crave extra nuttiness.

How to Perfect Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies

Achieving the perfect texture and flavor in your Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies is simple with a few key tips. Follow these suggestions for the best results.

• Use Room Temperature Eggs: Bringing your eggs to room temperature helps them incorporate better into the batter, resulting in a smoother mixture.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined when adding dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to denser blondies, which we want to avoid.

• Check for Doneness: The blondies should have a slightly jiggly center when you take them out of the oven. They will continue to cook as they cool.

• Cool Completely Before Cutting: Allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan. This helps them set properly and makes cutting easier.

Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies

Pairing side dishes with Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options that complement their flavors perfectly.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that enhances the sweetness and provides a creamy texture contrast.

2. Chocolate Milkshake: Creamy shakes add an indulgent element that matches well with the rich blondies.

3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad brings brightness and balances out the sweetness of the blondies.

4. Nutty Trail Mix: A crunchy trail mix made with nuts and dried fruits offers a savory contrast to the sweet bars.

5. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel sauce over slices adds another layer of sweetness and richness.

6. Coffee or Espresso: The bitterness of coffee contrasts nicely with dessert flavors, making it an ideal beverage choice.

7. Coconut Whipped Cream: For a dairy-free alternative, this light topping pairs wonderfully with the nutty taste of peanut butter blondies.

8. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These add an elegant touch while echoing the chocolate notes found within the blondies themselves.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help you create the perfect Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs or butter can lead to uneven mixing. Always bring your eggs to room temperature and melt the butter before use.
• Overmixing the batter: This can make the blondies tough. Mix just until combined—don’t worry about lumps!
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science, and inaccurate measurements can ruin your recipe. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements.
• Ignoring oven temperatures: Every oven is different, which means yours might bake hotter or cooler than the set temperature. Invest in an oven thermometer for accuracy.
• Skipping the cooling time: Cutting into warm blondies can result in a gooey mess. Allow them to cool completely before slicing for clean edges.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies

• Wrap individual blondie squares tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, then warm for about 5-10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds, checking often to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies that many bakers have:

What makes Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies chewy?

The combination of peanut butter and brown sugar contributes to their chewy texture. Using brown sugar retains moisture better than white sugar.

Can I substitute the peanut butter?

Yes! You can use any nut or seed butter if you want a different flavor profile. Just ensure it’s creamy for best results.

How do I know when my Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies are done baking?

Look for slightly jiggly centers and golden edges. The blondies will continue to cook as they cool.

Can I add other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, dried fruit, or different types of chocolate chips for variation.

Are these blondies suitable for vegan diets?

Yes! By using vegan marshmallow creme and ensuring all other ingredients are plant-based, these bars fit well into a vegan diet.

Final Thoughts

Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile! You can customize them by adding your favorite mix-ins or trying different nut butters. Give this recipe a try and enjoy these delightful treats that bring a taste of campfire coziness straight to your home!