Decadent Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies Recipe

Indulge in the perfect harmony of flavors with these irresistible Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies. Crafted during that sweet spot between summer and fall, when the craving for campfire treats lingers, these bars are a delightful twist on the classic s’mores we all adore. Picture a chewy peanut butter blondie base embracing the gooey marshmallow center and decadent chocolate chips – it’s a symphony of textures and tastes that will transport you back to carefree summer nights by the fire.

I vividly remember the first time I shared these Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies at a friend’s dinner party – they were an instant hit, disappearing faster than I could have imagined. The magic of these bars lies in their ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia while offering a unique and comforting experience. The layers of flavors, from the nutty peanut butter to the melty chocolate and gooey marshmallow, create a dessert that feels both familiar and refreshingly new. It’s no wonder these blondies have become a staple at gatherings, sparking joy and delight with every bite.

Elevate your dessert game with these Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies, whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a formal dinner party. The straightforward recipe ensures that even novice bakers can whip up a batch of these crowd-pleasers. So, go ahead, bake a pan of these blissful bars, and get ready to field requests for the recipe – because once you’ve tasted the magic of Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies, you’ll understand why they’re a dessert sensation that’s here to stay.

Quick Benefits

  • Elevates classic s’mores flavors with rich, chewy peanut butter blondie layers
  • Suitable for various occasions, from casual gatherings to formal dinner parties
  • Versatile recipe with creative variations using almond butter, cookie butter, or sliced bananas
  • Easy to store and reheat, maintaining their gooey texture for up to 3 days or freezing beautifully for up to 3 months

Why You’ll Love This Decadent Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies Recipe Recipe

  • Irresistible Combination: A blend of classic s’mores elements – graham cracker base, gooey marshmallow, and melty chocolate – with rich peanut butter blondie layers creates a unique and flavorful treat.
  • Year-Round Favorite: Perfect for that transitional season between summer and fall, these blondies are a hit at gatherings any time of the year, combining nostalgia with a cozy twist.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Testimonials prove the universal appeal of these bars; even non-dessert lovers can’t resist the magic of the Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies.
  • Easy Yet Impressive: Straightforward to make, these blondies are accessible to bakers of all levels, yet their presentation and taste make them look and feel indulgent.
  • Versatile and Customizable: The recipe offers various creative variations from nut butter substitutions to added layers, allowing you to tailor the blondies to your preferences or the occasion.
  • Enhancement Ideas: Elevate the dessert experience by serving warm with ice cream, alongside fresh berries, or as part of a dessert charcuterie board, making them ideal for various settings and gatherings.
  • Storage and Freezing: Maintain freshness by storing in an airtight container or freezing for up to three months, ensuring you can enjoy these Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies whenever a craving hits.

Ingredients for Decadent Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies Recipe

For the Blondie Base

  • 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
  • 6 tablespoons (85 grams) unsalted butter
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk, at room temperature
  • ½ cup (57g) graham cracker crumbs
  • 1 cup (127g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Filling

  • 1 cup (104 grams) marshmallow creme
  • 1 cup (170 grams) semisweet chocolate chips

How to Make Decadent Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the pan and preheat oven

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch light-colored metal pan with parchment paper or foil, leaving overhang on all sides. Spray with nonstick baking spray.

Step 2: Make the wet mixture

Melt butter in a large microwave-safe bowl. Stir in brown sugar and peanut butter until smooth. Allow to cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix the dry ingredients

Combine flour, graham cracker crumbs, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium mixing bowl. Whisk together and set aside.

Step 4: Complete the blondie batter

Whisk in the egg and egg yolk one at a time into the cooled peanut butter mixture, ensuring each addition is well incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract. Add the flour mixture and stir until just combined to form a thick dough.

Step 5: Layer the base

Evenly spread two-thirds of the dough into the prepared pan, ensuring it reaches the edges.

Step 6: Add the filling

Spoon marshmallow creme onto the base layer and spread evenly. Sprinkle chocolate chips over the marshmallow layer.

Step 7: Add the top layer

Flatten portions of the remaining dough with your palms and place them on top of the marshmallow and chocolate chip layers to cover about two-thirds of the surface.

Step 8: Bake

Bake for 26-28 minutes until the center is slightly jiggly, edges are lightly golden brown, and any exposed marshmallow is puffed and golden. Avoid overbaking to prevent dry blondies.

Step 9: Cool and serve

Let the blondies cool in the pan completely. Use the parchment overhang to lift them out, cut into squares, and serve.

Storage Tips

To store the Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies, it is best to keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. These blondies maintain their best texture for about 3 days when stored this way. Over time, they may become slightly more firm, but a quick 10-second warm-up in the microwave can easily restore their gooey and indulgent consistency.

For longer storage, these blondies freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. To freeze them, wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and then store them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the desired amount at room temperature for about an hour. Alternatively, unwrap a frozen blondie square and microwave it for 20-30 seconds for a quick and convenient way to enjoy a freshly baked treat. This storage method ensures you can have these delectable Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies on hand whenever a craving strikes.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a nut-free option, you can replace the creamy natural peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or soy nut butter. These alternatives will provide a similar creamy texture and nutty flavor without the presence of peanuts. Ensure that the sunflower seed butter or soy nut butter is well stirred before adding it to the blondie batter for a smooth consistency.

If you prefer a different flavor profile, consider using almond butter as a substitute for the peanut butter. Almond butter offers a more subtle nutty taste that complements the graham cracker crumbs, marshmallow creme, and chocolate chips beautifully. You can experiment with different types of nut butter to customize the blondies to your liking, such as cashew butter or hazelnut butter, for unique variations on this classic recipe.

Serving Suggestions

For a stunning dessert presentation, try layering individual squares of the Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies in a glass trifle dish with dollops of whipped cream and drizzles of warm chocolate sauce. This arrangement not only showcases the layers of flavors but also adds a touch of elegance to the rustic charm of the blondies. It’s a dessert centerpiece that will surely impress your guests at any gathering.

Another creative way to serve these decadent Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies is to crumble them over a bowl of creamy vanilla yogurt or ice cream, creating a delightful parfait. The warm, chewy blondies paired with the cool, creamy base offer a delightful contrast in temperature and texture. Top it off with a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers for an extra touch of crunch and flavor. This dessert parfait is a versatile option that can be enjoyed as a snack or a satisfying end to a meal.

FAQs for Decadent Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies Recipe

Can I substitute almond butter for the peanut butter in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute almond butter for a more subtle nutty flavor. It will alter the taste slightly but should still work well with the other ingredients.

How should I store these Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies?

These blondies maintain their best texture for about 3 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave individual squares for a fresh-baked experience.

What is the best way to serve these Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies for a gathering?

To impress your guests, warm individual squares for 10-15 seconds in the microwave and top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For summer gatherings, serve alongside fresh berries. They also make a great addition to a dessert charcuterie board or can be stacked on a wooden board with a pitcher of cold milk for a casual dinner party finish.

Can I use a combination of milk and dark chocolate chips instead of just semisweet?

Absolutely! You can customize the chocolate flavor by using a combination of milk and dark chocolate chips, adjusting the sweetness and richness to your preference. Feel free to experiment with different chocolate chip combinations to suit your taste.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies are not just a dessert; they’re a sweet revelation that captures the essence of cozy gatherings and childhood memories around the campfire. The blend of peanut butter richness, gooey marshmallow, and melty chocolate in each decadent square is sure to delight your taste buds and warm your soul. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a special celebration, these blondies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will leave your guests clamoring for more.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to embark on a baking adventure that will result in a dessert masterpiece. With a few simple steps and a bit of love, you can create these Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies that are as delightful to make as they are to eat. Embrace the versatility of this recipe, experiment with different variations, and share the joy of this delectable treat with your friends and family. Let these blondies be the star of your dessert table, leaving a lasting impression that will have everyone asking for the recipe. Enjoy the process, savor each bite, and create unforgettable memories with every batch of these irresistible Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies.

Decadent Peanut Butter S'mores Blondies Recipe

Decadent Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies Recipe

Indulge in the ultimate blend of summer campfire nostalgia and rich peanut butter goodness with these irresistible Peanut Butter S’mores Blondies.
Prep Time25 Minutes
Cook Time26 Minutes
Total Time51 Minutes
CuisineAmerican
Skill LevelEasy
Servings16 Servings (16 small or 9 large blondies)

Ingredients

For the Blondie Base

  • 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
  • 6 tablespoons (85 grams) unsalted butter
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk, at room temperature
  • ½ cup (57g) graham cracker crumbs
  • 1 cup (127g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Filling

  • 1 cup (104 grams) marshmallow creme
  • 1 cup (170 grams) semisweet chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pan and preheat oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch light-colored metal pan with parchment paper or foil, leaving overhang on all sides. Spray with nonstick baking spray.
  2. Make the wet mixture: Melt butter in a large microwave-safe bowl. Stir in brown sugar and peanut butter until smooth. Allow to cool slightly.
  3. Mix the dry ingredients: Combine flour, graham cracker crumbs, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium mixing bowl. Whisk together and set aside.
  4. Complete the blondie batter: Whisk in the egg and egg yolk one at a time into the cooled peanut butter mixture, ensuring each addition is well incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract. Add the flour mixture and stir until just combined to form a thick dough.
  5. Layer the base: Evenly spread two-thirds of the dough into the prepared pan, ensuring it reaches the edges.
  6. Add the filling: Spoon marshmallow creme onto the base layer and spread evenly. Sprinkle chocolate chips over the marshmallow layer.
  7. Add the top layer: Flatten portions of the remaining dough with your palms and place them on top of the marshmallow and chocolate chip layers to cover about two-thirds of the surface.
  8. Bake: Bake for 26-28 minutes until the center is slightly jiggly, edges are lightly golden brown, and any exposed marshmallow is puffed and golden. Avoid overbaking to prevent dry blondies.
  9. Cool and serve: Let the blondies cool in the pan completely. Use the parchment overhang to lift them out, cut into squares, and serve.