This easy dessert recipe combines rich chocolate with creamy peanut butter in a decadent blondie brownie bar. Perfect for potlucks or a quick treat at home, these bars are fudgy, nutty, and topped with melty chocolate for an irresistible finish.
6tablespoonssalted buttermelted, plus more for greasing
113.9-ounce box brownie mix
4large eggs
10tablespoonssalted butterat room temperature
¾cupcreamy peanut butter
1cuppacked light brown sugar
1tablespoonpure vanilla extract
2cupsall-purpose flour
1teaspoonbaking powder
2 to 3ouncesmilk or dark chocolate chunks
Flaky sea saltfor serving
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Instructions
Prepare your oven and baking dish: Set your oven to preheat at 350°F. Lightly grease a 9 × 13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
Mix the brownie batter: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the brownie mix, melted butter, two eggs, and a tablespoon of water. Whisk the ingredients until smooth and pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Prepare the blondie mixture: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the room-temperature butter and ½ cup of peanut butter. Heat the mixture in the microwave on high, stirring every 30 seconds, until it melts completely. Add the brown sugar, the remaining two eggs, and vanilla extract, stirring until combined. Gradually mix in the flour and baking powder, ensuring the batter is smooth and consistent.
Layer the brownie and blondie batters: Spoon half of the blondie batter over the brownie batter already in the pan, spreading it lightly. Heat the remaining ¼ cup of peanut butter in the microwave until it is melted and drizzle it over the blondie layer. Use a knife to swirl the melted peanut butter into the blondie layer. Spread the rest of the blondie batter over the top, without worrying if it doesn’t fully cover the surface.
Bake the layers: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 22 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly soft. Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the chocolate chunks evenly over the bars. Return the dish to the oven for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the chocolate to soften and melt slightly.
Cool and serve: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the bars while they’re still warm. Let the bars cool completely in the baking dish for at least an hour to ensure they set properly. Once cooled, cut them into squares and serve. These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days.
Notes
For the best flavor, use a high-quality brownie mix such as Foodstirs Organic Chocolate Lovers Brownie Mix, available in most grocery stores or online.
These bars are perfect for potlucks and gatherings, or as a quick homemade treat for your family.