Peanut Butter & Jelly is a classic combination that brings back nostalgic memories of childhood. But have you ever thought about turning this beloved duo into a rich, soft, chewy, and gooey dessert? Peanut Butter & Jelly Swirl Blondies are the perfect treat to satisfy your sweet cravings with the perfect balance of peanut butter and fruity jam swirled into a chewy blondie base. This dessert is not only easy to make but also super addictive!
If you’re looking for a fun, simple, and indulgent dessert to bake, this recipe is the answer. It combines all the flavors you love in a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, but in the form of a blondie—a dense, fudgy bar with a crisp exterior and a soft, chewy inside. The addition of jelly or jam creates a delightful swirl, making every bite a little bit of heaven.
What Are Peanut Butter & Jelly Swirl Blondies?
Peanut Butter & Jelly Swirl Blondies are a variation of traditional blondies, which are similar to brownies but made without cocoa powder. These bars are made with a base of peanut butter, sugar, butter, and flour, giving them a rich, buttery flavor and chewy texture. The twist comes from the addition of peanut butter and jelly, which is swirled into the batter before baking, creating pockets of sweetness and gooey goodness in every bite.
Blondies are beloved for their versatility and simplicity, and when paired with peanut butter and jelly, they become even more irresistible. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of coffee, a glass of milk, or as an after-dinner treat, these Peanut Butter & Jelly Swirl Blondies are sure to please everyone.
Origin of the Recipe
The idea for these Peanut Butter & Jelly Swirl Blondies comes from the classic American flavor combination of peanut butter and jelly, which is popular in sandwiches, snacks, and desserts across the country. Blondies themselves have been around for years, with their origins traced back to the early 1900s as a lighter, non-chocolate version of brownies. Combining this classic treat with the timeless duo of peanut butter and jelly brings a fresh twist to a beloved dessert, making it an instant hit in any household.
Ingredients (Makes 16 Blondies)
Before you begin baking these delicious Peanut Butter & Jelly Swirl Blondies, make sure you have the following ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter (plus extra for swirling)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/3–1/2 cup jelly or jam (strawberry, raspberry, or grape work great)
These are simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Feel free to experiment with different flavors of jelly or jam to make the recipe your own.
Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method
1. Prep the Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it. This ensures your blondies come out easily and have that perfect golden edge.
2. Make the Blondie Batter
In a mixing bowl, whisk the melted butter and light brown sugar together until smooth and creamy. Once mixed, whisk in the peanut butter until the batter becomes rich and creamy.
Next, crack in the egg and add the vanilla extract, mixing everything until well combined. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to denser blondies.
3. Swirl with Peanut Butter & Jelly
Once the batter is ready, spread it evenly into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top. Now, for the fun part—swirling in the peanut butter and jelly. Warm both the peanut butter and jelly slightly in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds to make them easier to swirl. Drop small spoonfuls of both the peanut butter and jelly on top of the batter, and then gently swirl them in with a knife or skewer to create those beautiful marbled ribbons.
4. Bake the Blondies
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 22–27 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set but still a little soft to the touch. The center will firm up as the blondies cool. For clean slices, let the blondies cool completely before cutting them into 16 squares.
Tips for Perfect Blondies
If you’re aiming for fudgier blondies, remove them from the oven when the center is still slightly soft. If you prefer thicker bars, try using a 9×9-inch pan and increase the ingredients by 1.5×.
For a bit of extra crunch and flavor, you can add chopped peanuts, white chocolate chips, or even pieces of PB cups into the batter before baking.
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, here are some fun variations you can try with this recipe:
1. Almond Butter & Raspberry Jam Blondies
Swap the peanut butter for almond butter and use raspberry jam for a slightly different nutty flavor combination. The tartness of raspberry jam pairs beautifully with the creamy almond butter.
2. Cashew Butter & Blueberry Jam Blondies
For a unique twist, try using cashew butter and blueberry jam. The creamy texture of cashew butter combined with the sweetness of blueberry jam makes for an indulgent treat.
3. PB&J Sandwich Style
If you’re craving a more classic PB&J experience, add a graham cracker crumb base before adding the batter. This gives the blondies a slight crunch reminiscent of a traditional sandwich.
FAQs About Peanut Butter & Jelly Swirl Blondies
Can I use a different type of nut butter?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with almond butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower butter. Each type of nut butter will bring a unique flavor to your blondies.
What type of jelly or jam should I use?
You can use any jelly or jam that you love! Classic choices include strawberry, raspberry, and grape, but you could also try flavors like apricot or blackberry for a new twist.
How do I store these blondies?
Store your Peanut Butter & Jelly Swirl Blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also refrigerate them for longer freshness.
Can I freeze these blondies?
Yes! You can freeze the blondies by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and storing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep for up to 2 months in the freezer.
Conclusion: Peanut Butter & Jelly Swirl Blondies
These Peanut Butter & Jelly Swirl Blondies are the perfect combination of nostalgic flavors and modern dessert goodness. They’re rich, chewy, and packed with the delicious swirl of peanut butter and jelly. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a picnic, or just a sweet treat for yourself, these blondies will never disappoint. They’re easy to make, and the end result is a dessert that’s sure to leave everyone coming back for more. So, grab your ingredients and start baking these addictive bars that will have you hooked from the first bite!
