Peanut Butter Blondies – Irresistibly Chewy and Easy to Make

There’s something magical about a dessert that tastes like it was made in a cozy kitchen, yet comes together faster than your favorite TV show. Enter Peanut Butter Blondies: sweet, chewy, and loaded with peanut butter goodness that will make you question why brownies ever got all the fame. They’re golden, soft in the middle, with a slightly crisp top edge that practically begs for a glass of milk. If you’ve ever wanted a treat that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to whip up, these blondies are your answer.

Chewy Peanut Butter Blondies fresh from oven

Table of Contents

What Makes Peanut Butter Blondies So Irresistible?

Peanut Butter Blondies are the ultimate treat for anyone who loves chewy, nutty desserts. They’re soft in the middle, slightly crisp at the edges, and packed with rich peanut butter flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate chips or chunks. Unlike traditional brownies, these blondies are golden and buttery, giving every bite a light yet indulgent feel. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make, even if you’re new to baking.

Quick History and Popularity of Blondies

Blondies first appeared in the early 20th century as a chocolate-free alternative to brownies. Over time, bakers began adding ingredients like peanut butter, chocolate chips, and nuts, creating a sweet, nutty twist that quickly became a favorite in the USA. Today, peanut butter blondies are a staple at family gatherings, bake sales, and cozy weekend treats, proving that a simple dessert can bring a lot of joy.

Ingredients for Perfect Peanut Butter Blondies

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these chewy, nutty blondies, you don’t need a long shopping list—just simple pantry staples. Start with butter, sugar, eggs, and flour as your base. Peanut butter gives these bars their signature flavor, while vanilla extract adds warmth and depth. For a little extra fun, chocolate chips or chunks make every bite feel decadent without being complicated.

Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor

While the classic peanut butter blondie is perfect on its own, you can mix things up with optional add-ins. Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans add crunch, white chocolate chips offer a creamy sweetness, and a drizzle of caramel makes them extra special. These variations allow you to customize the recipe to your taste while keeping it easy and approachable.

Ingredient Table

IngredientAmountNotes
Unsalted Butter1/2 cup (1 stick)Melted, plus extra for greasing pan
Peanut Butter3/4 cupSmooth or creamy works best
Granulated Sugar1 cupCan use brown sugar for extra chewiness
Eggs2 largeRoom temperature
Vanilla Extract2 tspAdds warmth and flavor
All-Purpose Flour1 cupSifted for best texture
Baking Powder1 tspHelps blondies rise slightly
Salt1/4 tspBalances sweetness
Chocolate Chips1/2 cupOptional, semi-sweet or milk chocolate
Optional Add-ins1/2 cupNuts, white chocolate, or caramel drizzle

Step-by-Step Instructions for Peanut Butter Blondies

Preparing the Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing an 8×8-inch baking pan with butter or parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and peanut butter until smooth. Add the sugar and mix until creamy. Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, making sure everything is fully combined but not overmixed. Finally, stir in chocolate chips or your choice of optional add-ins. The batter should be thick, shiny, and ready to pour into the prepared pan.

Baking Tips for Chewy, Gooey Blondies

Step 1: Pour the batter evenly into the greased pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

Step 2: Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes. Check at 25 minutes by inserting a toothpick in the center—it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. Overbaking will make the blondies dry, so keep a close eye on them.

Step 3: Allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan for at least 15–20 minutes before cutting. This ensures the bars hold together while staying chewy in the center. Cut into squares and serve with a cold glass of milk or your favorite beverage.

Tips, Tricks, and Variations

Peanut Butter Swirl or Chunky Blondies

To elevate your peanut butter blondies, consider adding a swirl or chunks of peanut butter on top before baking. Simply dollop small spoonfuls of peanut butter over the batter and use a knife to create gentle swirls. This gives a marbled effect and adds extra pockets of creamy peanut butter in every bite. You can also mix in peanut butter chunks for a more textured experience that peanut lovers will adore.

How to Store and Freeze Blondies

Served Peanut Butter Blondies with a glass of milk

Proper storage ensures your blondies stay soft and chewy for days. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3–4 days. For longer storage, wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag; they’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving, and consider warming them slightly in the microwave for that freshly baked taste.

Creative Serving Suggestions

Peanut butter blondies are versatile and fun to serve. Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert, drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce, or cut into smaller squares for a party platter. You can even sandwich them with peanut butter frosting for a decadent treat. These little tweaks make the dessert feel special while keeping it approachable and simple to prepare.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Natural Peanut Butter Instead of Creamy?

Yes! Natural peanut butter works perfectly, but it may make the batter slightly thicker. Mix well to ensure smooth consistency, and your blondies will still turn out soft and flavorful.

How Can I Make Blondies Less Sweet?

You can reduce the sugar by 2–3 tablespoons without affecting texture much. Using a mix of white and brown sugar also balances sweetness while keeping the chewy texture intact.

Can Blondies Be Made Gluten-Free?

Absolutely! Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in a 1:1 ratio. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binder to maintain structure and chewiness.

Can I Add Chocolate Chips or Nuts?

Yes! Chocolate chips, chunks, or chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans enhance texture and flavor. Mix them into the batter before baking for even distribution.

How Do I Reheat Leftover Blondies?

Warm individual squares in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or let them sit at room temperature. This restores the soft, gooey texture.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Blondies are a simple yet irresistible treat that anyone can make at home. With just a handful of pantry ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create chewy, golden bars packed with rich peanut butter flavor. Whether you enjoy them straight from the pan, topped with ice cream, or shared at a family gathering, these blondies never fail to impress. Their soft texture, nutty taste, and comforting sweetness make them a go-to dessert for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and watch how quickly it becomes a favorite in your kitchen.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Served Peanut Butter Blondies with a glass of milk

Peanut Butter Blondies


  • Author: Angie
  • Total Time: 40–45 minus

Description

Soft, chewy, and loaded with peanut butter flavor, these Peanut Butter Blondies are easy to make with simple pantry ingredients. Perfect for dessert, snacks, or sharing with friends and family.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 3/4 cup peanut butter, smooth or creamy
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
  • Optional add-ins: 1/2 cup nuts, white chocolate, or caramel drizzle

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease 8×8-inch pan.
  2. Mix melted butter and peanut butter, then add sugar, eggs, and vanilla.
  3. Fold in flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in chocolate chips or add-ins.
  4. Pour into pan, smooth top, and bake 25–30 minutes.
  5. Cool completely, cut into squares, and serve.

Notes

  • Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days, or freeze up to 2 months. Warm slightly before serving for extra gooeyness.
  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 25–30 mins

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12 squares