Peanut Butter & Jelly Blondies

Peanut Butter & Jelly Blondies are a delightful fusion of two classic American favorites: the creamy richness of peanut butter and the sweet tang of jelly. These chewy, buttery bars offer a soft, cake-like texture with layers of peanut butter and a vibrant fruit filling, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re a fan of the traditional PB&J sandwich or looking for a creative dessert option, these blondies deliver a nostalgic twist with a modern flair. This article dives deep into the recipe, offering a step-by-step guide, ingredient insights, and serving suggestions to help you master this indulgent creation. We’ll also explore variations, nutritional details, and how these blondies compare to other beloved desserts like chocolate biscotti or fudgy brownies.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 12

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy, depending on preference)
  • 1/2 cup jelly or jam (strawberry, grape, or blueberry work well)
  • Optional: 1/4 cup chopped peanuts or chocolate chips for extra texture.

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This ensures easy removal and prevents sticking.

Step 2: In a large bowl, cream the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for a tender texture. Tip: Use a stand mixer for efficiency.

Step 3: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Avoid overmixing to prevent a dense result.

Step 4: Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until just combined. Common mistake: Overmixing at this stage can lead to tough blondies.

Step 5: Spread half the batter into the prepared pan. Dollop the peanut butter on top and swirl it gently with a knife for a marbled effect.

Step 6: Spread the jelly over the peanut butter layer, then cover with the remaining batter. Fun fact: The jelly adds moisture and a burst of flavor, balancing the richness of the peanut butter.

Step 7: Bake for 25 minutes or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Tip: Avoid overbaking to maintain a fudgy center.

Step 8: Let cool completely before cutting into squares. Pro tip: Chill in the fridge for 1 hour to make slicing easier.

Cooking Tips

Best Results: Use room-temperature butter for smoother creaming. For a richer flavor, substitute 1/3 cup of the brown sugar with a caramel drizzle. Time-saving hack: Prepare the batter the night before and refrigerate, then bake fresh in the morning.

Flavor Variations: Swap the jelly for a fruit compote or add a swirl of chocolate sauce. For a nutty twist, mix in 1/4 cup chopped nuts or a drizzle of honey.

Ingredient Alternatives: Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour for a gluten-free option. Use natural peanut butter for a healthier base, or try a vegan butter substitute for a dairy-free version.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these blondies