Easy Peanut Butter Blossom Bars Recipe to Try

If you’re looking for a treat that’s both nostalgic and irresistibly delicious, these Peanut Butter Blossom Bars are exactly what you need. This recipe combines the classic peanut butter flavor with a soft, chewy texture topped with the iconic chocolate kiss in a convenient bar form. Perfect for cookie swaps, holiday gatherings, or a satisfying snack anytime, these bars are simple to make and incredibly crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re a peanut butter lover or just craving a sweet bite, this recipe delivers every single time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple ingredients: Uses pantry staples that you probably already have at home.
• Easy to bake: Minimal prep with straightforward steps perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Perfect texture: Soft, chewy bars with a slightly crispy edge and melty chocolate on top.
• Customizable flavor: Adapt the recipe easily with different toppings or mix-ins to suit your taste.
• Great for any occasion: From holiday gifts to everyday snacks, these bars fit right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Peanut Butter Blossom Bars recipe calls for basic, easy-to-find ingredients that work together to create a rich flavor and perfect texture. Each component contributes to making the bars tender, moist, and packed with peanut buttery goodness topped with that classic chocolate touch.

• Peanut butter: Creamy peanut butter adds that signature nutty flavor and moisture.
• Butter: Provides richness and helps develop the perfect chewy texture.
• Sugar: Both granulated and brown sugar balance sweetness and contribute to chewiness.
• Egg: Binds everything together while adding structure.
• Flour: The base that provides body and softness to the bars.
• Baking soda: Helps the bars rise slightly and enhances the texture.
• Vanilla extract: Adds warm, aromatic depth to the peanut butter.
• Chocolate kisses: Iconic chocolate candies that top each bar with a melty finish.

Variations for Peanut Butter Blossom Bars

Feel free to get creative! This recipe is so versatile that you can easily switch up a few ingredients or toppings for a unique twist. Whether you want to make it vegan, gluten-free, or just try a new flavor profile, these variations make it simple to customize.

• Nut-free version: Substitute sunflower seed butter for peanut butter to accommodate allergies.
• Chocolate swirl: Add a swirl of melted dark or white chocolate in the batter before baking.
• Extra crunch: Mix in chopped peanuts or your favorite nuts for added texture.
• Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour.
• Salted caramel twist: Drizzle salted caramel sauce over the bars before adding chocolate kisses.

How to Make Peanut Butter Blossom Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. This ensures even baking and easy removal of your bars later.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and peanut butter until smooth and fluffy. Add the granulated sugar and brown sugar, then beat until light and creamy. Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well to combine all the flavors.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the peanut butter mixture, stirring just until incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep the bars tender.

Step 4: Spread Batter and Bake

Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Step 5: Add Chocolate Kisses

Remove the bars from the oven and immediately press a chocolate kiss into the center of each square. The warmth of the bars will slightly melt the chocolate, creating that signature Peanut Butter Blossom look.

Step 6: Cool and Cut

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Peanut Butter Blossom Bars

• Use room temperature ingredients: Softened butter and egg mix better for a smooth batter.
• Do not overmix: Stir just until combined to avoid tough bars.
• Press chocolate kisses gently: To prevent the bars from cracking, press the chocolates just enough to stick.
• Try crunchy peanut butter: If you want an extra texture boost, substitute creamy with crunchy peanut butter.
• Let bars cool fully: This helps the bars set and makes cutting easier without crumbling.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Blossom Bars

Garnishes

To elevate the presentation, sprinkle a little sea salt, chopped nuts, or drizzle white chocolate over the top after placing the chocolate kisses. These small touches add extra flavor and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Serve these bars alongside a tall glass of cold milk, a cup of coffee, or even with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert combo that balances sweetness and richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving Peanut Butter Blossom Bars in decorative cupcake liners or stack them on a pretty cake stand for parties. Wrapping individual bars in parchment paper tied with twine makes a charming gift idea for friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Peanut Butter Blossom Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and softness.

Freezing

Wrap bars individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a resealable freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

Warm leftover bars slightly in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds to bring back that freshly baked softness and flair, especially when paired with a warm drink.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter in this recipe?

Yes, natural peanut butter can be used, but it may result in a slightly oilier batter and a different texture, so you might need to adjust baking time slightly.

Are Peanut Butter Blossom Bars gluten-free?

The traditional recipe uses regular flour, so they are not gluten-free by default. However, swapping with gluten-free flour works well if you have dietary restrictions.

What’s the best chocolate for topping?

Classic milk chocolate kisses are traditional and melt nicely. You can also experiment with dark or flavored chocolate kisses according to your preference.

Can I make these bars vegan?

Yes! Substitute the butter with a vegan alternative, use flax or chia eggs instead of chicken eggs, and ensure the chocolates used are dairy-free.

How thick should I spread the batter in the pan?

Spread it evenly about a half-inch thick to ensure the bars bake evenly and hold their classic chewy consistency.

Final Thoughts

These Peanut Butter Blossom Bars bring the comfort of a timeless treat into an easy-to-make, shareable dessert. With their perfect balance of peanut butter richness and chocolatey sweetness, they’re sure to become one of your new favorite recipes. Cozy up with a batch and watch them disappear fast — you won’t regret giving this recipe a try!

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