Peanut Butter Blossom Bars are a delightful twist on the classic peanut butter blossom cookies, transforming the beloved treat into a bar form that is both convenient to make and irresistibly delicious. These bars combine the rich, creamy texture of peanut butter with the sweet, smooth taste of chocolate, culminating in a dessert that’s as satisfying as it is easy to share.
The base of these bars starts with a thick, chewy layer of peanut butter dough, made from a blend of creamy or crunchy peanut butter, softened butter, granulated and brown sugar for depth of flavor, eggs to bind the mixture, and vanilla extract for a hint of warmth. Flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt are mixed in to give the dough structure and to balance the sweetness.
Once the peanut butter dough is evenly spread in a baking pan, it’s baked until just set and lightly golden on the edges, yet still soft and tender in the center. The magic of the bars comes alive with the addition of chocolate. As soon as the pan is removed from the oven, chocolate pieces—either chocolate chips, chocolate kisses, or a spread of melted chocolate—are pressed gently into the soft, warm surface of the baked peanut butter base. The heat from the bars slightly melts the chocolate, allowing it to nestle into the dough and creating a gooey, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
As the bars cool, the chocolate sets, forming a delightful contrast to the soft, dense peanut butter layer beneath. The result is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures: the salty, nutty base complemented by the creamy, sweet chocolate on top. These bars are then cut into squares or rectangles, making them an ideal size for serving at gatherings, as a treat for family dessert, or as a special snack to brighten a day.
Peanut Butter Blossom Bars are not just a treat to eat; they’re also a joy to make, often involving family members in the kitchen and creating memories along the way. They represent a modern, shareable take on the traditional cookie, offering the same beloved flavors in a format that’s both easier to prepare and to serve. Whether for a holiday, a party, or simply as a way to show love and care, these bars are a testament to the timeless appeal of peanut butter and chocolate together.
Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
2/3 cup of milk chocolate chips
1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup of brown sugar
1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter
1/2 cup of granulated sugar
1 egg
3/4 teaspoon of baking soda
1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
1/8 teaspoon of salt
24 Hershey’s Kisses
Instructions:
Start by preheating the oven to 350℉ and greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish.
In a large mixing bowl, blend together softened butter, both sugars, peanut butter, and the egg.
Gently mix in the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and milk chocolate chips.
Evenly press the dough into the prepared pan and bake for approximately 22 minutes.
Upon removing from the oven, immediately press Hershey’s Kisses onto the top.
Allow to cool, then cut into squares, ensuring each has a Kiss in the center.
Storage Tips:
Advise storing the bars in an airtight container at room temperature, noting they can last up to 5 days.
