Name: Irresistibly Chewy Reese's Pieces Peanut Butter Blondies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup butter (Use unsalted butter for a less salty bite.); 2 cups brown sugar (Light brown sugar or coconut sugar can be used.); 1/2 cup peanut butter (Almond or cashew butter can be substituted.); 2 large eggs (No substitutions recommended.); 1 TBS vanilla extract (Opt for pure vanilla for the best taste.); 2 1/8 cups all-purpose flour (A gluten-free baking blend can be used as an alternative.); 1 tsp baking powder (Ensure it's fresh for optimal results.); 1/2 tsp salt (Optional based on taste preference.); 1 cup Reese's Pieces (Chocolate chips can be used as a delightful twist.)

There’s something truly uplifting about the delightful scent of freshly baked blondies wafting through my kitchen. These Reese's Pieces Peanut Butter Blondies are my go-to when I need a sweet pick-me-up that’s both quick to prepare and irresistibly delicious. Picture this: rich, chewy bars infused with the creamy goodness of peanut butter, all topped off with the bright, colorful crunch of Reese's Pieces. They’re like a hug in dessert form!

Whenever I’ve had a long day or I’m in need of a fun treat to share with friends, these blondies never fail to impress. They bridge the gap between a classic peanut butter treat and a contemporary crowd-pleaser, making them perfect for any occasion—from casual family gatherings to more festive events. Plus, they come together in just about 30 minutes! So roll up your sleeves and let’s turn simple pantry staples into a delightful indulgence that’s sure to bring a smile to your face.

Why are Reese's Pieces Peanut Butter Blondies so special?

Irresistible flavor: Each bite delivers a burst of peanut butter goodness complemented by the sweet crunch of Reese's Pieces.
Quick and easy: You can whip up this delicious dessert in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for unexpected guests or a last-minute treat.
Chewy perfection: Enjoy the soft, chewy texture that makes these blondies truly addictive—a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults alike!
Versatile options: Feel free to customize by swapping out Reese's Pieces for chocolate chips or nuts, creating your own personal twist.
Serving bliss: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent experience; it’s the perfect way to impress at any gathering!

Reese's Pieces Peanut Butter Blondies Ingredients

For the Blondie Base

Butter – ½ cup (1 stick); adds moisture and richness. Alternative: Use unsalted butter for a less salty bite.
Brown Sugar – 2 cups; provides sweetness with a hint of caramel flavor. Alternative: Light brown sugar or coconut sugar work well too.
Peanut Butter – ½ cup; essential for flavor and creates that chewy texture. Alternative: Almond or cashew butter if you're seeking a different nutty profile.
Eggs – 2 large; binds ingredients and adds moisture—no substitutions recommended.
Vanilla Extract – 1 TBS; enhances the overall flavor; opt for pure vanilla for the best taste.
All-Purpose Flour – 2 ⅛ cups; gives structure to the blondies. Alternative: Gluten-free baking blend for a gluten-free version.
Baking Powder – 1 tsp; helps the blondies rise. Ensure it’s fresh for optimal results.
Salt – ½ tsp; balances the sweetness, but optional based on your taste preference.

For the Fun Factor

Reese's Pieces – 1 cup; delivers bursts of peanut butter flavor and texture. Alternative: Chocolate chips can add a delightful twist for a chocolate version.

How to Make Reese's Pieces Peanut Butter Blondies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x13 baking pan by greasing it with cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Cream together the softened butter and brown sugar in a large bowl. Beat them together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
Mix in the peanut butter until it's well combined. The creamy texture of the peanut butter should blend seamlessly with your buttery mixture, creating a delightful aroma.
Add the eggs and vanilla extract, stirring until everything is fully incorporated. This step is crucial for binding your blondies together, giving them that perfect chewy texture!
Combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually mix this dry mixture into the wet batter until just combined; be careful not to over-mix!
Fold in the Reese's Pieces gently until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. This will ensure that every bite is packed with their delightful crunch and peanut butter flavor.
Spread the batter into the prepared baking pan. Use a rubber spatula to smooth it out evenly, making sure it reaches the edges of the pan.
Bake for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, with just a few moist crumbs attached. Your kitchen will start to smell heavenly!
Cool the blondies for about 10 minutes in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack. Cut them into bars once they’ve cooled slightly, and then serve!

Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra indulgent touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Reese's Pieces Peanut Butter Blondies

Butter Magic: Use softened butter rather than melted to ensure a creamy texture that blends smoothly without oily spots.
Mix with Care: Over-mixing after adding flour can lead to tough blondies; mix until just combined for that perfect chewy bite.
Pan Size Matters: If you're using an 8x8 pan, remember to halve the recipe to avoid overly thick blondies that may not bake evenly.
Fresh Ingredients: Check that your baking powder is fresh; stale baking powder can result in blondies that don’t rise properly, affecting your results.
Storage Savvy: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness for up to 5 days—perfect for snacking!
Custom Flavor: Feel free to swap in your favorite mix-ins, but keep the Reese's Pieces for those delightful bursts of peanut butter flavor.

Make Ahead Options

These Reese's Pieces Peanut Butter Blondies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the blondie batter up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in the refrigerator in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. To do this, follow the recipe instructions up to the point of spreading the batter into the baking pan. When you're ready to bake, simply spread the batter into the prepared pan and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before popping it in the oven for about 30 minutes. This way, you'll enjoy soft, chewy blondies that taste just as delicious, without sacrificing quality on busy weeknights!

What to Serve with Reese's Pieces Peanut Butter Blondies?

Pair these delightful blondies with complementary flavors and textures to create an unforgettable treat experience that tantalizes the taste buds.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream perfectly balances the rich flavors of the blondies, enhancing their chewiness with a cool, velvety contrast.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over your blondies adds a decadent touch, amplifying the already delightful dessert factor.
Fresh Berries: A side of tart raspberries or strawberries introduces a refreshing burst of flavor that cuts through the sweetness, enhancing the overall eating experience.
Peanut Butter Drizzle: Elevate the peanut butter flavor by adding a drizzle of melted peanut butter on top; it's a dream come true for nut butter lovers!
Milkshake: Pair these blondies with a thick peanut butter or chocolate milkshake for a nostalgic throwback to childhood treats.
Coffee: A warm cup of coffee complements the sweetness beautifully, providing a comforting balance to each soft, chewy bite of the blondies.
Nutty Trail Mix: Serving a side of nutty trail mix brings a variety of textures and flavors, contrasting against the smoothness of the blondies for added crunch.
Warm Chocolate Chip Cookies: Enjoy an unexpected twist by pairing it with classic warm chocolate chip cookies; two treats are better than one!

How to Store and Freeze Reese's Pieces Peanut Butter Blondies

Room Temperature: Store blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days; this keeps them fresh and chewy.

Fridge: For extended freshness, refrigerate blondies in a sealed container. They can last up to 1 week, but allow them to come to room temperature for optimal flavor.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual blondies in plastic wrap followed by foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy frozen blondies, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm briefly in the microwave for a delightful treat reminiscent of fresh-baked Reese's Pieces Peanut Butter Blondies.

Reese's Pieces Peanut Butter Blondies Variations

Explore the delightful world of customization with these blondies, ready to cater to your taste buds!

Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and use a dairy-free chocolate alternative to keep them creamy yet dairy-free.
Nut-Free: Replace peanut butter with sunbutter for a nut-free version that still delivers incredible flavor and texture.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend instead of all-purpose flour for a delicious blondie that everyone can enjoy.
Chocolate Lovers: Add a cup of chocolate chips for an extra layer of indulgence, creating a rich chocolate-peanut butter harmony in every bite.
Oatmeal Twist: Incorporate 1 cup of rolled oats into the batter for added texture; this gives a delightful chew and additional heartiness.
Salted Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle warm melted caramel and a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an irresistible sweet and salty combo.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter for a warm kick that balances well with the sweetness of the blondies.
Fruit Fusion: Fold in dried cherries or cranberries for a fruity burst amongst the creamy peanut butter and crunchy candy pieces.

These variations open up new doors to enjoy these beloved blondies, letting your creativity shine in the kitchen!

Reese's Pieces Peanut Butter Blondies Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right peanut butter for these blondies?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose a creamy peanut butter that mixes well—look for one without added sugar or oils. Natural peanut butter will give a more authentic taste, while processed options can add a smoother texture. I often use a well-known brand for consistency.

How long do the blondies last in storage?
Very! If you store the blondies in an airtight container at room temperature, they will maintain their chewiness for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, you can refrigerate them, extending their shelf life to about a week. Just be sure to let them warm up to room temperature for the best flavor!

Can I freeze Reese's Pieces Peanut Butter Blondies?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each blondie in plastic wrap, then cover them with foil to prevent freezer burn. Place the wrapped blondies in a freezer-safe zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, and then pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up.

What can I do if my blondies turn out too dry or crumbly?
This can happen if the batter is over-mixed or baked for too long. If your blondies are dry, next time, ensure you mix the flour in gently—just until combined. Also, keep a close eye on the baking time; remove them from the oven as soon as a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.

Are there any allergy considerations I should keep in mind?
Very much so! Since this recipe contains peanut butter, those with peanut allergies should definitely avoid it. You could experiment with sunflower seed butter as an alternative for a nut-free option. Also, double-check that any chocolate additions or substitutes (like chocolate chips) are allergy-friendly, as some brands may have cross-contamination with nuts.

Can I use chocolate chips instead of Reese's Pieces?
Absolutely! If you prefer a chocolatey twist, substitute the Reese's Pieces with a cup of chocolate chips. This not only maintains the delightful chewy texture but adds a rich chocolate flavor that pairs beautifully with the peanut butter. Just remember to enjoy the delightful crunch that Reese's Pieces bring!