Honey & Peanut Butter Blondies

When you bite into a Honey & Peanut Butter Blondie, you’re not just indulging in a dessert; you’re experiencing a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will linger on your palate. These blondies are chewy, nutty, and ever so slightly sweet, infused with the rich tastes of honey and creamy peanut butter that come together to create a treat that feels comforting while also being a bit exciting. The juxtaposition of the smooth blondie base topped with crunchy honey-roasted peanuts offers an excellent contrast that enhances each mouthful. This recipe draws upon traditional baking practices, yet its unique blend of ingredients gives it a modern twist, making it perfect for various occasions.

What You’ll Need for Honey & Peanut Butter Blondies

Complete Ingredients List

• Cooking spray
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 large egg
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup honey-roasted peanuts, roughly chopped

Ingredient Substitutions & Alternatives

If you need alternatives due to allergies or dietary needs, here are some suggestions:

• Gluten-Free: Substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute instead of unsalted butter. Ensure that the peanut butter is dairy-free as well.
• Sugar-Free: Consider using a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener in place of brown sugar. Replace honey with sugar-free syrup or a puree of suitable fruit.
• Vegan: Substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use a vegan butter alternative.

For flavor variations, you can incorporate chocolate chips, cinnamon, or even chopped dried fruits for added texture and taste.

How to Make Honey & Peanut Butter Blondies

Making Honey & Peanut Butter Blondies is incredibly straightforward, thanks to their simple ingredients and minimal steps. Follow these detailed instructions to achieve the very best results.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the blondies cook evenly and create that deliciously chewy texture. While your oven is heating, prepare your baking pan.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Line a 9″-by-9″ baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a 2-inch overhang on two opposite sides for easy removal. This will allow you to lift out the blondies without damaging them after baking. Lightly spray the parchment with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt. This step is crucial as it evenly distributes the leavening agent and salt throughout the flour, preventing clumping and ensuring uniform rise in your blondies.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter and light brown sugar until smooth. Next, add in the honey and peanut butter. Whisk until everything is combined and there are no lumps. The mixture should be thick and glossy.

Step 5: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla

Add the large egg, large egg yolk, and pure vanilla extract to your wet mixture. Whisk thoroughly until completely incorporated. This step adds moisture and richness to the blondies.

Step 6: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently mix until just combined. Take care not to overmix as this can lead to a denser blondie.

Step 7: Prepare the Pan for Baking

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing it out into an even layer with a spatula. Take the roughly chopped honey-roasted peanuts and sprinkle them generously on the top, pressing them in slightly so they adhere.

Step 8: Bake the Blondies

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the edges begin to pull away from the sides and a toothpick or tester inserted into the center comes out clean. Be careful not to overbake as you want to maintain that chewy texture.

Step 9: Cool and Slice

Allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, use the parchment overhang to lift them out carefully. Transfer to a cutting board and slice into squares or rectangles as preferred.

Serving Suggestions for Honey & Peanut Butter Blondies

How to Serve Honey & Peanut Butter Blondies

These blondies can be served in various ways. They are delightful warm, but also delicious at room temperature or chilled from the refrigerator. For presentation, consider serving them on a decorative plate, stacking them neatly or fanning them out for an appealing display.

Perfect Pairings & Toppings

You can elevate your Honey & Peanut Butter Blondies by pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzling them with a warm chocolate sauce. A sprinkling of sea salt or a dusting of powdered sugar can add an extra dimension to their taste and appearance. Consider serving with a side of fresh fruit, such as strawberries or bananas, which complement the sweetness beautifully.

Storing & Preserving Honey & Peanut Butter Blondies

Best Storage Methods

To maintain their freshness, store your blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you prefer to extend their shelf life, refrigerate them for up to a week. Ensure they are fully cooled before placing them in the fridge to avoid excess moisture.

Reheating or Freezing Tips

If you want to enjoy your blondies warm after a few days, simply pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Slice the blondies and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, placing them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as desired.

Tips for Perfect Honey & Peanut Butter Blondies Every Time

Avoid These Common Mistakes

1. Overmixing the Batter: This can lead to dense, tough blondies. Mix until just combined.
2. Incorrect Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven, and consider using an oven thermometer for accuracy.
3. Not Using Parchment: Skipping the parchment paper can make it tough to remove your blondies without breaking them.

Helpful Tricks for Success

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This ensures a better incorporation of the wet and dry ingredients.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife rather than scooping directly from the bag, which can compact the flour and lead to dry blondies.
• Experiment with Mix-Ins: Don’t hesitate to add chocolate chips, dried fruit, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for a fun twist.

Fun Variations of Honey & Peanut Butter Blondies

Flavor Variations or Recipe Twists

Thinking of creative twists? Here are some ideas:

• Chocolate Peanut Butter Blondies: Swirl in some melted chocolate or add chocolate chips to bring in that decadent flavor.
• Tropical Twist: Incorporate shredded coconut and chopped macadamia nuts for a tropical flair.
• Spiced Blondies: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.

Dietary-Friendly Adjustments

If you’re looking to modify the blondies:

• Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flaxseed or a commercial egg replacer.
• Keto-Friendly: Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour and sugar substitutes for a lower-carb version.

FAQs

What If My Honey & Peanut Butter Blondies Don’t Turn Out Right?

If your blondies turn out dry, you may have overbaked them. Monitor the baking time closely. If they spread too much, your butter might have been too warm; consider chilling your batter before baking next time.

Can I Prepare This in Advance?

Absolutely! You can make the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also bake and store blondies to serve later, just make sure they’re stored correctly to retain freshness.

What Ingredients Can I Swap?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free blends, swap in alternatives for dairy, or replace eggs depending on your dietary needs or preferences. If you’re out of honey, maple syrup can be a delightful alternative, though it will alter the flavor slightly.

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