Welcome to a delightful fusion of healthy whole wheat flour and classic peanut butter. The blend gives you a perfect mix of sweet and savory, promising a culinary journey filled with indulgence. These whole wheat peanut butter blondies are perfect for dessert lovers looking for a healthier twist. The richness of peanut butter combined with the nutty flavor of whole wheat will surely satisfy your sweet tooth.
Most ingredients in this recipe are commonly found in pantries. However, you might need to pay a little extra attention while shopping for whole wheat flour and coconut oil. Whole wheat flour provides a healthier, nuttier alternative to regular flour. Coconut oil, on the other hand, adds a delightful touch of tropical flavor to these blondies. These ingredients are usually found in the organic or health food section of most supermarkets.
Ingredients for Whole Wheat Peanut Butter Blondies
Peanut butter: The star of the show, it provides the rich, creamy texture and unmistakable taste.
Coconut oil: This is used as a healthier fat alternative that adds a subtle tropical flavor.
Light brown sugar: Gives the blondies their sweetness and a moist texture.
Milk: Helps to bind the ingredients together.
Vanilla extract: Adds a layer of aromatic depth.
Whole wheat flour: This gives the blondies a nutty, hearty taste and makes them more filling.
Salt: Enhances all the other flavors in the blondies.
Baking powder: Helps with rising and gives a light, fluffy texture.
Peanuts: Adds a wonderful crunch and extra peanut flavor.
Dark chocolate chips: They provide a bitter-sweet counterbalance to the peanut butter.
One reader, Benita Falcone says:
I recently tried the whole wheat peanut butter blondies recipe and it was a delightful surprise! The combination of peanut butter and dark chocolate chips was heavenly. The texture was perfect, and the whole wheat flour added a nice nutty flavor. I'll definitely be making these again!
Techniques Required for Making Whole Wheat Peanut Butter Blondies
How to prepare the baking pan: Line an 8-inch baking pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper, ensuring there is enough overhang on the sides to easily remove the blondies.
How to mix the batter: In a large bowl, mix together the peanut butter, oil, and brown sugar until smooth. Whisk in the milk and vanilla. Add the flour, salt, and baking powder, and mix until combined. The batter will be very thick.
How to press the batter into the pan: Transfer the batter to the prepared baking pan and press it into place using the back of a spatula.
How to cool the blondies: After baking, cool the blondies completely before slicing into squares or hearts. It's best to cool for at least 3 hours or overnight before cutting.
How to make the optional chocolate drizzle: Melt chocolate chips and peanut butter together, then drizzle over the cut blondies.
How To Make Whole Wheat Peanut Butter Blondies
These lightened up and soft peanut butter blondies are made with whole wheat flour and less sugar. It’s also chewy and loaded with peanut butter and nuts!
Serves:
Ingredients
- ¾cupcreamy peanut butter
- ⅓cupcoconut oil,melted
- ½cuploosely light brown sugar,or dark brown sugar, packed
- ¼cupmilk
- 2tsppure vanilla extract
- 1cupwhole wheat flour,spoon and leveled
- ¼tspsalt
- ½tspbaking powder
- ⅓cuppeanuts
- ⅓cupdark chocolate chips,or semi sweet chocolate chips
For Optional Chocolate Drizzle:
- ¼cupdark chocolate chips,or semi sweet chocolate chips
- 1tspcreamy peanut butter
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
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Line an 8-inch baking pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper, making sure there is enough overhang on the sides to easily remove the blondies.
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Set aside
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In a large bowl, mix together the peanut butter, oil, and brown sugar until smooth.
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Whisk in the milk and vanilla. Add the flour, salt, and baking powder.
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Mix until combined. The batter will be very thick.
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Transfer the batter to the baking pan and press it into place using the back of a spatula.
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Sprinkle the top with peanuts and dark chocolate chips, pressing them gently into the batter.
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Bake for 22 to 25 minutes, until the edges are just barely browning. The top will look very soft.
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Remove from the oven and cool completely before slicing into squares or hearts.
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Be sure to cool for at least 3 hours or overnight (preferred) before cutting.
Optional Chocolate Drizzle:
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Melt chocolate chips and peanut butter together.
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Drizzle over the cut blondies.
Recipe Notes
- Make-Ahead and Freezing Instructions: These bars can be made 3 days in advance and kept in an airtight container at room temperature until ready to serve. The bars freeze well, up to 3 months. Simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving. Leftover bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator or at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Vegan: These whole wheat, egg-free blondies are vegan if non-dairy milk of choice and dairy-free chocolate chips will be used
- Peanut Butter: Use any favorite peanut butter, natural or non-natural. Make sure it is not oily in the slightest or the blondies will be greasy. Use almond butter instead of peanut butter and chopped almonds instead of peanuts, if desired.
Nutrition
- Calories: 496.08kcal
- Fat: 35.57g
- Saturated Fat: 16.30g
- Trans Fat: 0.03g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 11.73g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.24g
- Carbohydrates: 37.57g
- Fiber: 5.50g
- Sugar: 17.66g
- Protein: 11.84g
- Cholesterol: 1.33mg
- Sodium: 125.20mg
- Calcium: 80.04mg
- Potassium: 405.30mg
- Iron: 3.35mg
- Vitamin A: 4.31µg
Crucial Technique for Perfect Whole Wheat Peanut Butter Blondies
When making these whole wheat peanut butter blondies, it's important to remember that the batter will be very thick. Don't be tempted to add more liquid to thin it out. The dense batter is what gives these blondies their rich, fudgy texture. Also, when pressing the batter into the baking pan, use the back of a spatula to ensure an even layer. This will help the blondies bake evenly and achieve a consistent texture throughout. Lastly, patience is key when it comes to cooling. Letting them cool completely, preferably overnight, will make them easier to cut and will enhance their flavor.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Peanut Butter Blondies
Prep ahead: Mix the dry ingredients the night before and store them in an airtight container. This will save time and make the baking process more efficient.
Use a food processor: Instead of hand-chopping the peanuts, use a food processor to quickly chop them to the desired size.
Double the batch: Make a double batch and freeze the extra blondies for a quick and convenient snack or dessert option later on.
Organize your ingredients: Before you start, gather and measure all your ingredients. This will streamline the baking process and prevent any last-minute scrambling.
Substitute Ingredients For Whole Wheat Peanut Butter Blondies Recipe
whole wheat flour - Substitute with all-purpose flour: All-purpose flour can be used as a substitute for whole wheat flour in this recipe. It will result in a lighter texture and milder flavor compared to whole wheat flour.
coconut oil - Substitute with unsalted butter: Unsalted butter can be used as a substitute for coconut oil to provide a rich and creamy texture to the blondies.
creamy peanut butter - Substitute with almond butter: Almond butter can be used as a substitute for creamy peanut butter to provide a similar nutty flavor with a slightly different taste profile.
light brown sugar - Substitute with granulated sugar: Granulated sugar can be used as a substitute for light brown sugar, but it will result in a slightly different flavor and texture in the blondies.
milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used as a substitute for milk to provide a dairy-free alternative with a hint of nutty flavor.
peanuts - Substitute with chopped almonds: Chopped almonds can be used as a substitute for peanuts to provide a similar crunchy texture and nutty flavor in the blondies.
dark chocolate chips - Substitute with semi-sweet chocolate chips: Semi-sweet chocolate chips can be used as a substitute for dark chocolate chips to provide a slightly sweeter flavor in the blondies.
dark chocolate chips - Substitute with cocoa powder: Cocoa powder can be used as a substitute for dark chocolate chips to provide a rich chocolate flavor throughout the blondies.
dark chocolate chips - Substitute with carob chips: Carob chips can be used as a substitute for dark chocolate chips to provide a naturally sweet and caffeine-free alternative with a similar texture.
Presentation Ideas for Peanut Butter Blondies
Elevate the plating: When presenting the whole wheat peanut butter blondies, consider using a minimalist approach to plating. Place the blondie on a clean, white plate, allowing its natural colors and textures to take center stage.
Garnish with finesse: Add a touch of sophistication by garnishing the plate with a dusting of powdered sugar. This delicate touch will enhance the visual appeal and add a hint of elegance to the presentation.
Incorporate a contrasting element: Introduce a contrasting element to the plate by serving the blondie alongside a quenelle of vanilla bean ice cream. The creamy, cool ice cream will complement the warm, nutty flavors of the blondie.
Artful chocolate drizzle: When adding the optional chocolate drizzle, use a piping bag to create an artful, abstract design on the plate. This technique will add a touch of artistry and finesse to the presentation.
Emphasize precision: Pay attention to the precision of each element on the plate. Ensure that the blondie is cut into uniform squares or hearts, and that the garnishes are meticulously placed to create a visually appealing composition.
Consider the use of edible flowers: For a final touch, consider adorning the plate with a few delicate edible flowers. This subtle addition will introduce a pop of color and a hint of floral fragrance to the presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Whole Wheat Peanut Butter Blondies
- Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients and mixing the blondie batter.
- Spatula: A spatula is used to spread the batter evenly in the baking pan and to press the toppings into the batter.
- 8-inch baking pan: An 8-inch baking pan is used to bake the blondies.
- Aluminum foil or parchment paper: This is used to line the baking pan, making it easier to remove the blondies after baking.
- Oven: The oven is used to bake the blondies at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Whisk: A whisk is used to mix the ingredients together, ensuring a smooth and well-combined batter.
- Measuring cups and spoons: These are used to measure the ingredients accurately.
- Food processor: A food processor can be used to chop the peanuts if whole peanuts are used in the recipe.
- Knife: A knife can be used to chop the peanuts if whole peanuts are used in the recipe.
- Microwave or double boiler: This is used to melt the chocolate chips and peanut butter for the optional chocolate drizzle.
Storing and Freezing Peanut Butter Blondies
Allow the whole wheat peanut butter blondies to cool completely before storing. This is crucial to prevent condensation from forming and making the blondies soggy.
Once cooled, slice the blondies into squares or your desired shape.
Place the blondies in an airtight container, separating each layer with a piece of parchment paper or wax paper to prevent them from sticking together.
Store the container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Keep the blondies away from direct sunlight and heat sources to maintain their texture and flavor.
If you want to keep the blondies fresh for a longer period, you can freeze them:
- Wrap each blondie individually in plastic wrap, ensuring a tight seal to prevent freezer burn.
- Place the wrapped blondies in a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference.
- Freeze the peanut butter blondies for up to 3 months.
To thaw frozen blondies, remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about an hour. If you prefer a slightly warmer blondie, you can microwave each one for 10-15 seconds after thawing.
If you have added the optional chocolate drizzle, it's best to store the blondies in the refrigerator to prevent the chocolate from melting. However, let the blondies come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
How To Reheat Leftover Blondies
To reheat leftover whole wheat peanut butter blondies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the blondies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and heat them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are warmed through and slightly crispy on the edges. This method will help restore the texture and bring out the nutty flavor of the peanut butter and whole wheat flour.
Another option is to use a microwave. Place the blondies on a microwave-safe plate and heat them in 15-second intervals until they reach your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can cause the chocolate chips to burn and the blondies to become tough.
For a quick and easy reheating method, use a toaster oven. Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and place the blondies on the toaster oven rack. Heat for 3-4 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crispy on the edges. This method is perfect for reheating small batches of blondies and ensures even heating.
If you want to add a little extra flavor and moisture to your leftover blondies, try wrapping them in aluminum foil before reheating in the oven. This will help keep the blondies soft and prevent them from drying out. You can also sprinkle a few drops of water on the foil before wrapping to create a steamy environment that will help revive the texture of the blondies.
For a decadent treat, reheat your leftover blondies in a skillet with a dollop of butter or coconut oil. Place the blondies in the skillet over medium-low heat and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until warmed through and slightly crispy. The added fat will give the blondies a rich, buttery flavor and a deliciously crisp exterior.
Interesting Fact About Whole Wheat Peanut Butter Blondies
The peanut butter blondies recipe is a delicious way to enjoy a sweet treat while incorporating whole wheat flour, which adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber to the dessert. Peanut butter is a good source of protein and healthy fats, making these blondies a more nutritious option compared to traditional desserts. Additionally, the addition of dark chocolate chips provides a rich and indulgent flavor, while the optional chocolate drizzle adds an extra touch of sweetness. Overall, this recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, perfect for those who enjoy a balance of wholesome ingredients and decadent treats.
Is Making Whole Wheat Peanut Butter Blondies at Home Cost-Effective?
This whole wheat peanut butter blondies recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as peanut butter, coconut oil, and whole wheat flour, are relatively affordable and commonly found in most kitchens. The addition of peanuts and dark chocolate chips may slightly increase the cost, but they can be optional. Overall, this recipe is a budget-friendly option for a delicious homemade treat. I would rate this recipe an 8/10 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$12, making it an economical choice for a delightful dessert.
Are Whole Wheat Peanut Butter Blondies Healthy?
This whole wheat peanut butter blondies recipe has some healthy elements, but it also contains ingredients that may not be considered entirely nutritious. Let's break it down:
Healthy aspects:
- The use of whole wheat flour provides more fiber and nutrients compared to refined white flour
- Peanut butter is a good source of protein and healthy fats
- Dark chocolate chips contain antioxidants and less sugar than milk chocolate
Less healthy aspects:
- The recipe includes a significant amount of added sugar from the brown sugar and chocolate chips
- Coconut oil is high in saturated fat, which should be consumed in moderation
- The overall calorie density of the blondies may be relatively high due to the combination of peanut butter, oil, and sugar
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of brown sugar or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
- Use a smaller quantity of dark chocolate chips or opt for cacao nibs, which have less sugar
- Replace some of the coconut oil with unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas to reduce the saturated fat content
- Incorporate additional nutrient-dense ingredients, such as ground flaxseed or chia seeds, to boost the fiber and omega-3 content
- Serve the blondies in smaller portions and pair them with fresh fruit to balance out the treat
By making these adjustments, you can create a more well-rounded and nutritious version of the whole wheat peanut butter blondies while still enjoying a delightful treat.
Editor's Opinion on This Whole Wheat Peanut Butter Blondie Recipe
The whole wheat peanut butter blondies recipe is a delightful twist on a classic treat. The use of whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and a wholesome touch, while the combination of creamy peanut butter and dark chocolate creates a rich and indulgent experience. The addition of peanuts provides a delightful crunch, and the optional chocolate drizzle adds a touch of decadence. This recipe is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a delightful choice for a sweet treat.
Enhance Your Whole Wheat Peanut Butter Blondies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Whole Wheat Peanut Butter Blondies Recipe:
This recipe uses whole wheat flour and peanut butter to provide a healthier twist on traditional blondies, making it a guilt-free indulgence. The addition of coconut oil and peanuts adds a delightful nuttiness and texture, while the dark chocolate chips bring a rich, decadent flavor. The optional chocolate drizzle enhances the overall taste experience. With a perfect balance of sweetness and wholesome ingredients, this recipe is a delicious and nutritious choice for anyone looking to enjoy a satisfying treat.
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