Fluffernutter Bars
Soft and chewy, Fluffernutter Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the beloved flavors of peanut butter and marshmallow. Perfect for parties, picnics, or simply as an indulgent treat at home, these bars are sure to impress friends and family alike. With a gooey marshmallow layer nestled between two layers of sweet peanut butter goodness, they capture the essence of the classic fluffernutter sandwich in a fun and shareable form.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up these delicious bars without a hitch.
- Deliciously Sweet and Salty: The combination of peanut butter and marshmallow creates a perfect balance that appeals to all taste buds.
- Versatile Treats: Great for any occasion—birthdays, holidays, or just because! These bars are a crowd-pleaser.
- Make Ahead Option: You can prepare them in advance and store them for later, making them ideal for busy schedules.
- Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into creating your Fluffernutter Bars, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×13 inch baking pan: The perfect size for evenly baking your bars while ensuring they rise beautifully.
- Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when mixing the dough for a smooth consistency.
- Parchment paper: Helps prevent sticking, allowing easy removal of the bars from the pan.
Ingredients
Soft and chewy peanut butter bars with a layer of gooey marshmallow in the middle. If you love the classic sandwich or the combo of sweet and salty – then these fluffernutter bars are for you.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/3 cup white sugar
– 1 1/2 cups smooth peanut butter
– 1 large egg
– 1 large egg yolk (in addition to the other egg, discard the white)
– 7 oz jar marshmallow fluff
How to Make Fluffernutter Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350F degrees and place the oven rack in the middle position.
Step 2: Prepare Your Pan
Line a 9×13 inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang around the edges. Alternatively, line with aluminum foil and lightly grease it.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, beat together:
3/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
3/4 cup brown sugar
1/3 cup white sugar
Mix until soft.
Step 5: Add Peanut Butter and Eggs
Beat in:
1 1/2 cups smooth peanut butter
Then mix in:
1 large egg
1 large egg yolk (discarding the white)
Step 6: Combine Mixtures
With your mixer on low speed, gradually mix in half of the dry mixture into your wet ingredients until fully combined.
Step 7: Reserve Dough
Remove about 1 cup of batter from the bowl.
Step 8: Form Base Layer
Press the remaining dough into an even layer at the bottom of your lined pan.
Step 9: Bake Base Layer
Bake this layer in your preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until set.
Step 10: Add Marshmallow Fluff
Once baked, take out the pan (keeping your oven on). Carefully spread:
7 oz jar marshmallow fluff
on top of this layer.
Step 11: Top with Reserved Dough
Pinch off pieces from your reserved dough, flattening them slightly into about one-inch pieces. Place these on top of the marshmallow layer—aim for about 80-90% coverage.
Step 12: Bake Again
Return to oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until top layer is set.
Step 13: Cool Down
Allow your bars to cool at room temperature for at least one hour before slicing.
Step 14: Lift Out Bars
Using parchment overhang or foil edges, lift out the bars from your pan onto a cutting board.
Step 15: Slice Bars
Optionally grease a thin knife with non-stick cooking spray to slice through easily without sticking to marshmallow fluff. Enjoy your delicious Fluffernutter Bars!
How to Serve Fluffernutter Bars
Fluffernutter Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re having them as a dessert, snack, or party treat, serving them right can elevate the experience.
With a Glass of Milk
- Pair your bars with a cold glass of milk to balance the sweetness. The rich creaminess complements the peanut butter flavor perfectly.
Topped with Chocolate Drizzle
- Drizzle some melted chocolate over the bars for an extra layer of indulgence. This adds a beautiful finish and enhances the overall taste.
Served Warm
- Enjoying these bars warm makes them even more gooey and delicious. Simply heat them slightly in the microwave before serving for that fresh-out-of-the-oven feel.
Accompanied by Fresh Fruit
- Pairing Fluffernutter Bars with fresh fruit like strawberries or bananas adds a refreshing contrast. The natural sweetness of fruit balances the richness of the bars.
In Ice Cream Sundaes
- Crumble some Fluffernutter Bars over ice cream for a decadent sundae. This combination takes your dessert to another level of deliciousness.
As Party Favors
- Cut the bars into small squares and package them as party favors. They make great treats for birthdays or gatherings, allowing guests to enjoy a sweet memory from your event.
How to Perfect Fluffernutter Bars
To ensure your Fluffernutter Bars turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
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Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the bars soft and chewy. Overmixing can lead to tough bars.
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Check Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time to avoid overbaking. The top should look set but not browned.
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Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing. This ensures clean cuts and prevents sticking.
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Use Parchment Paper: Lining your pan with parchment paper makes it easy to lift out the bars without breaking them.
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Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add mini chocolate chips or nuts into the batter for added flavor and texture variations.
Best Side Dishes for Fluffernutter Bars
Fluffernutter Bars pair well with various side dishes that complement their sweet and salty flavors. Here are some great options to consider:
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that enhances the creamy texture while keeping things cool and refreshing.
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Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances out the richness of the bars.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For chocolate lovers, serving these alongside traditional cookies creates a delightful dessert platter.
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Coffee or Espresso: A strong coffee provides a perfect contrast to sweetness, making it an ideal drink choice.
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Peanut Butter Dip with Celery Sticks: For something savory, this combination keeps it on theme while offering crunchy freshness.
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S’mores Dip: This gooey dip echoes the marshmallow flavors in Fluffernutter Bars while adding extra fun for dipping!
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Milkshakes: Blend up some milkshakes using peanut butter for an indulgent drink that pairs nicely with dessert.
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Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses can balance out sweetness, making it an unexpected but delightful pairing option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Fluffernutter Bars can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls that could affect the outcome. Here are some mistakes to avoid:
- Skipping the egg yolk: The extra egg yolk adds richness and moisture. Don’t skip it for a better texture.
- Not preheating the oven: An unpreheated oven can lead to uneven baking. Always preheat to 350F for perfect bars.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make the bars tough. Mix just until combined for a soft, chewy texture.
- Using cold butter: Cold butter doesn’t cream well with sugars and affects consistency. Ensure your butter is softened at room temperature.
- Ignoring cooling time: Cutting too soon can lead to messy bars. Let them cool for at least an hour before slicing.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Fluffernutter Bars in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Fluffernutter Bars
- Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Fluffernutter Bars
- Oven: Preheat to 350F, place bars on a baking sheet, and warm for about 5-10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual bars on medium power for 15-20 seconds or until warm.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid, reheating for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Fluffernutter Bars that may help you as you prepare this delicious dessert.
What are Fluffernutter Bars?
Fluffernutter Bars are soft and chewy peanut butter bars filled with layers of gooey marshmallow fluff. They combine sweet and salty flavors perfectly!
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes! You can substitute smooth peanut butter with crunchy peanut butter for added texture in your Fluffernutter Bars.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The top should look fully set and lightly golden when the bars are done baking. Make sure to follow the baking times closely!
How long do Fluffernutter Bars last?
When stored properly, these bars last up to 5 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months if frozen.
Can I customize my Fluffernutter Bars?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor and texture in your delicious Fluffernutter Bars.
Final Thoughts
Fluffernutter Bars offer a delightful combination of peanut butter and marshmallow flavors that bring comfort and joy. Their chewy texture makes them perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to cozy nights at home. Customize them by adding chocolate chips or nuts for an extra touch! Give this recipe a try, and enjoy these sweet treats that everyone will love.
Fluffernutter Bars
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x
Description
Fluffernutter Bars are the ultimate treat for peanut butter lovers! These soft and chewy bars combine the classic flavors of peanut butter and gooey marshmallow fluff, creating a delicious dessert that is perfect for any occasion—be it parties, picnics, or cozy nights at home. With their sweet and salty balance, Fluffernutter Bars are sure to impress friends and family alike. Plus, they’re easy to make and can be customized with your favorite toppings like chocolate chips or nuts for an extra flair. Get ready to indulge in these delightful bars that capture the essence of childhood comfort food!
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup white sugar
- 1 1/2 cups smooth peanut butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 large egg yolk
- 7 oz jar marshmallow fluff
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat together softened butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until creamy. Mix in peanut butter followed by the egg and egg yolk.
- Gradually mix in dry ingredients until combined. Reserve 1 cup of dough.
- Press remaining dough into the prepared pan and bake for 25 minutes.
- Spread marshmallow fluff over the baked layer. Pinch off small pieces of reserved dough and place on top of the fluff for about 80-90% coverage.
- Bake again for an additional 10 minutes or until set.
- Cool for at least one hour before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (60g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
