Chewy Peanut Butter Blondies with Chocolate Chips
These thick, soft, and chewy peanut butter blondies deliver deep peanut butter flavor in every bite. Made in one bowl from simple pantry ingredients, they’re finished with chopped roasted peanuts and a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt for a perfectly balanced sweet-and-salty treat. They’re easy to make, slice neatly after cooling, and store well for sharing or snacking.
If you love peanut butter, these blondies are a must-try. The batter contains a full cup of creamy peanut butter, so you get rich, nutty flavor without needing chocolate chips or other mix-ins. The texture is substantial—thick bars with lightly browned edges and tender, chewy centers. Chopped roasted peanuts on top add a welcome crunch, and a dusting of flaky sea salt enhances the peanut butter’s natural flavor while cutting the sweetness.
Because the recipe comes together in a single bowl and uses melted butter, preparation is quick and cleanup is minimal. No mixer is required—just simple measuring, whisking, and a short bake time. These bars work well for an everyday dessert, a treat for kids, a potluck contribution, or whenever you want something comforting and peanut-forward.
Why You’ll Love These Peanut Butter Blondies
- Plenty of peanut butter flavor. Creamy peanut butter is the star ingredient, delivering a robust nutty taste in every bite.
- Thick, soft, and chewy texture. These blondies are dense and satisfying with lightly crisped edges and soft centers.
- One bowl, no mixer. Melted butter and simple whisking make this an easy recipe with minimal cleanup.
Tips for Soft, Chewy Peanut Butter Blondies
These blondies are straightforward, but a few small techniques help ensure a tender, chewy center every time.
- Use conventional creamy peanut butter. Brands like Jif or Skippy provide consistent texture and moisture. Natural peanut butter that separates can alter batter consistency and final texture.
- Avoid over-baking. For thick bars, the edges should be set and lightly browned while the center may appear slightly underdone. A toothpick or skewer inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs. The blondies will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Cool fully before slicing. Let the pan cool completely on a wire rack before lifting out using the parchment overhang. Cooling allows the centers to set and helps you achieve neat squares.
- Finish with toppings. Chopped roasted peanuts add contrast to the smooth bars, and flaky sea salt brightens the peanut butter flavor while balancing sweetness. This finishing touch transforms good blondies into great ones.
How to Store
Room temperature: Store the blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 to 4 days. Keep them away from direct sunlight and heat to preserve texture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual blondies tightly in plastic wrap or parchment, place in an airtight, freezer-safe container or bag, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving for best texture.
Any Excuse for Peanut Butter Blondies
These blondies are a reliable favorite whenever you want a comforting, peanut-forward dessert. They’re simple enough for a weekday baking session and attractive enough to bring to a party or potluck. Because they keep well and travel easily, they’re a convenient choice for gatherings, school events, or casual sharing with friends and family. No special occasion required—just a craving for peanut butter.
More Peanut Butter Treats
3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
Peanut Butter Cup Blondies
Peanut Butter Texas Sheet Cake
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cake
Peanut Butter Blondies
Ingredients
- ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter
- 1 cup (255 g) creamy peanut butter
- 1 ¼ cups (250 g) firmly packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 ¼ cups (150 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons chopped roasted peanuts
- flaky sea salt, for finishing
Recommended Products
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8-inch square baking pan
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Wire cooling rack
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Small spatula or offset spatula
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
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Melt the butter in a large microwave-safe bowl or in a small saucepan on the stove. Allow it to cool for a few minutes.
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Whisk the peanut butter into the melted butter until smooth, then add the brown sugar and whisk until combined and slightly glossy.
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Add the eggs and vanilla, whisking until the mixture is smooth and a bit lighter in color.
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Add the flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon just until the dry ingredients are incorporated. Do not overmix.
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Transfer the batter to the prepared pan and spread it evenly using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon.
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Sprinkle the chopped roasted peanuts over the top in an even layer.
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Bake for 28 to 34 minutes, or until the edges are set and lightly browned. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs; the center should still look slightly underdone. Avoid over-baking to keep the centers soft and chewy.
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Remove the pan from the oven and place it on a wire rack. Immediately sprinkle lightly with flaky sea salt while the blondies are warm.
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Let the blondies cool completely in the pan before using the parchment overhang to lift them out. Cut into 16 squares and serve.
Notes
- Peanut butter: Choose a conventional creamy peanut butter for reliable texture and flavor. Natural peanut butters that separate may change how the batter comes together.
- Mix-ins: These bars are delicious as written, but you can fold in a small handful of chopped chocolate or chocolate chips if you want a chocolate-peanut butter pairing.
- Storage reminder: Keep blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 to 4 days, or freeze individually wrapped for up to 3 months.
