Introduction and Overview
What are Peanut Butter Blossom Bars?
Peanut Butter Blossom Bars are a delicious twist on the classic peanut butter blossom cookies. These bars feature a soft and chewy peanut butter base, topped with iconic Hershey’s Kisses. They’re baked as bars instead of individual cookies, making them a quick and easy treat for any occasion. These bars are the perfect combination of rich peanut butter flavor and chocolate sweetness, providing the same classic taste but in a simpler bar form.
A Convenient Take on a Classic Favorite
These bars offer all the nostalgic flavors of peanut butter blossom cookies but require less time and effort. Perfect for bake sales, potlucks, or a sweet treat at home, they’re sure to satisfy any peanut butter and chocolate lover.
Ingredients and Nutritional Benefits
Main Ingredients
Peanut Butter
Peanut butter is the star of these bars, providing a rich, nutty flavor and creamy texture. It’s also packed with protein, healthy fats, and fiber.
Flour
All-purpose flour serves as the base for the bars, giving them structure. You can substitute with whole wheat or gluten-free flour if needed.
Brown Sugar
Brown sugar adds sweetness and moisture, making the bars soft and chewy. Its molasses content deepens the flavor, complementing the peanut butter.
Hershey’s Kisses
Hershey’s Kisses are the signature chocolate topping that give these bars their classic flavor. The combination of peanut butter and chocolate is irresistible.
Eggs
Eggs help bind the ingredients together and contribute to the bars’ soft, tender texture.
Nutritional Benefits
Peanut Butter: Protein and Healthy Fats
Peanut butter is a great source of plant-based protein and heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. It also provides fiber, which supports digestion and helps keep you full longer.
Chocolate: Antioxidants
Dark or milk chocolate contains antioxidants, particularly flavonoids, which support heart health. While chocolate should be enjoyed in moderation, it adds both flavor and some nutritional benefits to the bars.
Preparation and Variations
Basic Recipe
Ingredients List
To make Peanut Butter Blossom Bars, you’ll need:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅔ cup milk chocolate chips
- 24 Hershey’s Kisses
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and set it aside.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Cream the Butters and Sugars: In a larger bowl, beat the softened butter and peanut butter until smooth and creamy. Add the granulated sugar and brown sugar, and continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add the Egg and Vanilla: Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the milk chocolate chips, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Bake the Bars: Press the dough evenly into your prepared baking pan. Bake for 20-22 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Add Hershey’s Kisses: Immediately after removing the bars from the oven, press a Hershey’s Kiss into the top of each bar while they’re still warm.
- Cool & Slice: Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing them into squares.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 22 minutes
Total Time: 37 minutes
Servings: 24
Calories per Serving: 180 kcal
Recipe Variations
Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars
For an extra chocolatey version, stir in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips into the dough before baking. This adds even more chocolate flavor throughout the bars.
Peanut Butter Cup Bars
Instead of Hershey’s Kisses, top the bars with mini peanut butter cups for a double dose of peanut butter goodness.
Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Blossom Bars
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these bars gluten-free. Be sure to use a blend that includes xanthan gum or another binding agent to maintain the bars’ structure.
Nut-Free Blossom Bars
If you need to avoid peanuts, use a different nut or seed butter like almond butter or sunflower seed butter. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Serving Suggestions
For a Dessert Spread
Serve these bars alongside other classic desserts like brownies or cookies for a dessert spread at a party or gathering. They’re easy to grab and eat, making them perfect for casual events.
As a Sweet Snack
These bars are great as an afternoon snack or a sweet treat to pack in lunch boxes. They store well and are a convenient on-the-go option.
For Bake Sales or Potlucks
Peanut Butter Blossom Bars are a great choice for bake sales or potlucks. The classic flavors of peanut butter and chocolate are always a hit, and the bar form makes them easier to serve than cookies.
Pairing Ideas
With a Glass of Milk
Like the classic cookies, these bars pair perfectly with a cold glass of milk. The creaminess of the milk complements the rich peanut butter and chocolate flavors.
With Coffee or Hot Chocolate
For a cozy treat, serve the bars with a hot cup of coffee or hot chocolate. The warmth of the drink balances the sweetness of the bars and enhances the flavors.
With Vanilla Ice Cream
For an indulgent dessert, serve the bars warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The combination of warm, chewy bars and cold, creamy ice cream is irresistible.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the bars a day in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and chewy for several days.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the bars for up to 3 months by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but be sure to stir it well before using, as the oil tends to separate. The bars may be slightly less sweet with natural peanut butter.
Can I substitute the Hershey’s Kisses?
If you don’t have Hershey’s Kisses, you can use chocolate chunks, chocolate chips, or even mini peanut butter cups. Any small chocolate piece that melts slightly will work well.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the recipe and bake the bars in a larger sheet pan or make two 9×13-inch pans. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.
Conclusion
Peanut Butter Blossom Bars are a quick and easy way to enjoy the classic flavors of peanut butter blossoms without the fuss of rolling individual cookies. With their soft, chewy texture and rich combination of peanut butter and chocolate, these bars are perfect for any occasion. Whether served at a party, shared as a sweet snack, or enjoyed with a scoop of ice cream, they’re sure to be a hit!