Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Blondies have captured my heart with their irresistible combination of chewy blondie base and colorful candy pieces. These delectable treats bring together the classic peanut butter flavor we all love from Reese’s Pieces Cookies to create a dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a party or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these blondies deliver the perfect balance of sweetness and peanut butter goodness in every bite.
Nutritional Benefits
While these blondies are definitely a treat, they do provide some nutritional benefits thanks to the peanut butter, which contains protein and healthy fats. The eggs also add protein and essential vitamins to the mix.
| Nutrition (per serving) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 285 |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Sugar | 25g |
| Fiber | 1g |
Ingredients & Substitutions
| Ingredient | Role | Possible Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| 1 cup unsalted butter, melted | Adds moisture and richness | Coconut oil or vegetable oil (for dairy-free option) |
| 1 cup creamy peanut butter | Provides flavor and texture | Almond butter or sunflower seed butter (for allergies) |
| 1½ cups brown sugar | Sweetens and adds moisture | Coconut sugar or maple sugar |
| 2 large eggs | Provides structure | Flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) |
| 1 tablespoon vanilla extract | Enhances flavor | Maple extract or almond extract |
| 2½ cups all-purpose flour | Forms the structure | 1:1 gluten-free flour blend |
| 1 teaspoon baking powder | Provides lift | ½ tsp baking soda + ½ tsp cream of tartar |
| 1 teaspoon salt | Enhances flavor | Sea salt or kosher salt |
| 1½ cups Reese’s Pieces | Adds color and flavor | Mini chocolate chips or peanut butter chips |
| ½ cup Reese’s mini cups, chopped (optional) | Extra peanut butter goodness | Chopped chocolate peanut butter cups |
Equipment Needed
– 9×13 inch baking pan
– Parchment paper
– Large mixing bowl
– Medium mixing bowl
– Whisk
– Silicone spatula
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Cooling rack
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and peanut butter until smooth. Add the brown sugar and whisk until well combined. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Create the batter: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. The batter will be thick.
5. Add the candy: Fold in 1 cup of the Reese’s Pieces Cookies pieces, reserving the remaining ½ cup for topping.
6. Transfer to pan: Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan. Sprinkle the remaining Reese’s Pieces and chopped mini cups (if using) over the top.
7. Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
8. Cool completely: Allow the Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Blondies to cool in the pan for at least 1 hour before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Cut into squares and enjoy!
Troubleshooting & Pro Tips
– For extra chewy blondies: Slightly underbake them. The center should still be a little soft when you remove them from the oven.
– Prevent overbaking: Keep an eye on the blondies during the last 5 minutes of baking time. They should look slightly underdone in the center when you take them out.
– Even distribution: For perfect distribution of Reese’s Pieces, press some additional pieces into the top of the batter just before baking.
– Clean cuts: For neat squares, refrigerate the cooled blondies for 30 minutes before cutting with a sharp knife. Clean the knife between cuts.
– Altitude adjustments: If baking at high altitude, add an extra 2 tablespoons of flour to the batter.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
– Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
– Refrigerator: Keep for up to 1 week in an airtight container.
– Freezer: Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.
– Make ahead: The batter can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
– Reheating: To enjoy warm, microwave an individual piece for 10-15 seconds.
Conclusion
These Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Blondies are the ultimate treat for anyone who loves the classic combination of peanut butter and chocolate. With their buttery, chewy texture and colorful candy pieces, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering. The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity—anyone can make these delicious blondies at home. Plus, if you’re a fan of Reese’s Pieces Cookies, you’ll appreciate how this recipe transforms that familiar flavor into a new, equally delightful format.
FAQ
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes! Crunchy peanut butter will add extra texture to your blondies. Just be aware that the final texture will be slightly different.
How do I know when the blondies are done baking?
The edges should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs. The center might look slightly underdone, but it will set as it cools.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely! Replace the all-purpose flour with your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
How long do these blondies stay fresh?
They’ll stay fresh at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I add other mix-ins?
Definitely! Try adding chopped peanuts, chocolate chips, or Home Made Reese Cups for extra flavor and texture.
Why did my blondies turn out cakey instead of chewy?
This might be due to overmixing the batter or overbaking. Remember to mix just until the ingredients are combined and to slightly underbake for a chewier texture.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, just use a larger baking pan or divide the batter between two 9×13 inch pans.
Is there a way to reduce the sugar in this recipe?
You can reduce the brown sugar to 1¼ cups without significantly affecting the texture.
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