Peanut Butter Blossom Bars

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Peanut Butter Blossom Bars – Rich, Creamy & Perfectly Layered

Inspired by the beloved holiday cookie, these bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust, silky chocolate ganache, and a fluffy peanut butter topping—finished with a chocolate kiss and drizzle.

Introduction: A Classic Cookie Reimagined as a Bar

Peanut butter blossoms are a holiday staple—but what if you could enjoy that same nostalgic flavor in a decadent, layered bar? These Peanut Butter Blossom Bars take everything you love about the original cookie and turn it into a rich, no-fuss dessert that’s perfect for gifting, sharing, or savoring solo.

With a buttery graham cracker base, a smooth chocolate layer, and a whipped peanut butter topping, each bite is a celebration of texture and flavor. And the finishing touch—a chocolate kiss—makes them as charming as they are delicious.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at what makes these bars so irresistible:

For the Crust:

  • Crushed graham crackers (1½ cups / ~10 full sheets)
    Adds a sweet, toasty base with a hint of crunch.
  • Granulated sugar (¼ cup)
    Enhances the graham flavor and helps bind the crust.
  • Unsalted butter (6 tbsp, melted)
    Rich and buttery—holds the crust together.

For the Chocolate Layer:

  • Heavy cream (1 cup)
    Creates a silky ganache texture.
  • Semi-sweet chocolate (8 oz, finely chopped)
    Deep, rich flavor—balances the sweetness of the peanut butter.
  • Light corn syrup (1 tbsp, optional)
    Adds shine and smoothness to the ganache.

For the Peanut Butter Topping:

  • Smooth peanut butter (¾ cup)
    Creamy and nutty—pairs perfectly with chocolate.
  • Powdered sugar (⅓ cup)
    Sweetens and lightens the texture.
  • Unsalted butter (2 tbsp, softened)
    Adds richness and helps whip the topping.
  • Vanilla extract (1 tsp)
    Adds warmth and depth.
  • Heavy cream (1–2 tbsp)
    Adjusts consistency for a velvety finish.

For the Finish:

  • Melted chocolate (¼ cup)
    Drizzled for visual appeal and extra flavor.
  • Chocolate kisses (12–16, unwrapped)
    Classic blossom touch—centered on each bar.

Equipment Needed

  • 8×8-inch baking pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Mixing bowls
  • Saucepan
  • Electric mixer or whisk
  • Spoon or spatula
  • Knife and cutting board

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep & Make the Crust

Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.

In a bowl, mix:

  • 1½ cups crushed graham crackers
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • 6 tbsp melted butter

Stir until evenly moistened.

Press firmly into the pan using the back of a spoon or flat-bottomed glass.

Chill for 15 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Chocolate Layer

In a saucepan:

  • Heat 1 cup heavy cream over medium-low until it just begins to simmer.

Remove from heat.

Add:

  • 8 oz chopped chocolate
  • 1 tbsp corn syrup (optional)

Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.

Pour over chilled crust and spread evenly.

Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.

Step 3: Prepare the Peanut Butter Topping

In a bowl:

  • Beat ¾ cup peanut butter, ⅓ cup powdered sugar, 2 tbsp softened butter, and 1 tsp vanilla until fluffy.

Add 1 tbsp heavy cream and mix.

If too thick, add another ½ tbsp until spreadable.

Gently spread over the set chocolate layer.

Step 4: Chill & Decorate

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.

Remove from pan using parchment overhang.

Trim edges for clean lines.

Cut into 12–16 squares.

Drizzle each bar with ¼ cup melted chocolate.

Top with 1 chocolate kiss centered on each square.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

  • Holiday cookie trays
  • Bake sales or potlucks
  • Dessert platters
  • Sweet gifts

Pair with:

  • A glass of milk or hot cocoa
  • Coffee or espresso
  • A scoop of vanilla ice cream

Presentation Tip: Serve in mini cupcake liners or stack in a festive tin with parchment dividers.

Variations to Try

Want to make them your own? Try these delicious twists:

PB&J Bars

Add a thin layer of strawberry jam under the peanut butter topping.

Salted Caramel

Drizzle with salted caramel instead of chocolate.

Nutty Crunch

Add chopped peanuts or pretzels to the crust.

Vegan Version

Use plant-based butter, dairy-free chocolate, and coconut cream.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Make-Ahead: Prepare up to 2 days in advance.
  • Refrigerate: Store in airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze bars (without kisses) for up to 1 month. Add kisses after thawing.

Tip: Let bars sit at room temp for 10 minutes before serving for best texture.

Nutrition Notes (Per Bar, ~1 of 16)

  • Calories: ~280
  • Protein: ~4g
  • Carbohydrates: ~22g
  • Fat: ~18g
  • Sugar: ~16g
  • Sodium: ~120mg
  • Fiber: ~1g

These bars are:

  • Rich and creamy
  • Sweet and nutty
  • Perfectly portioned
  • Great for sharing

Final Thoughts

These Peanut Butter Blossom Bars are more than just a dessert—they’re a celebration of classic flavors, layered textures, and easy elegance. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just treating yourself, they’re guaranteed to impress and satisfy.

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