If you’re craving a nostalgic treat that’s equal parts gooey, nutty, and downright irresistible, look no further than Fluffernutter Bars: The Ultimate Peanut Butter and Marshmallow Treat Recipe. This delightful dessert layers creamy peanut butter batter with luscious marshmallow fluff, creating a soft, chewy bar with a golden crust and a melt-in-your-mouth center. Each bite offers a perfect harmony of sweet and salty flavors, making these bars an absolute crowd-pleaser whether you’re packing lunches, hosting a get-together, or simply treating yourself. Trust me, once you try this recipe, Fluffernutter Bars will earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple yet essential ingredients you probably already have on hand. Each plays a key role in achieving the perfect texture, flavor, and appearance, making every ingredient count toward this scrumptious dessert.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Adds richness and moisture, helping create a tender crumb.
- Creamy peanut butter (1 cup): The star ingredient that delivers that beloved nutty taste and creamy texture.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens and balances the flavors, while also contributing to a slight crispness on top.
- Brown sugar (1 cup, packed): Adds depth of flavor and moisture, giving the bars a delightful chewiness.
- Large eggs (2): Bind everything together and give structure to the bars.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances and rounds out the peanut butter and marshmallow flavors.
- All-purpose flour (2 ½ cups): The main body of the bars, providing structure without weighing them down.
- Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Helps the bars rise just enough for a tender bite.
- Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Works with baking powder to give a light texture and slight lift.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances flavor complexity.
- Marshmallow fluff (1 cup): The gooey, fluffy layer that makes these bars unforgettable.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup, optional): Adds an indulgent chocolate touch for chocolate lovers.
How to Make Fluffernutter Bars: The Ultimate Peanut Butter and Marshmallow Treat Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and grease it lightly to ensure easy removal. Properly prepping your pan sets the stage for perfectly baked, easy-to-cut bars.
Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, blend together the softened unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the granulated sugar and packed brown sugar, then beat everything until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air, which is key for a tender texture.
Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully combined before adding the next. Then pour in the vanilla extract and mix until everything is well blended. These ingredients bring structure and depth to the batter.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your bars tender and soft.
Step 5: Layer the Batter and Fluff
Spread half of the batter evenly into your prepared baking pan. Next, spoon the marshmallow fluff across the batter, spreading it gently but thoroughly to cover. This luscious layer is what makes these bars truly special.
Step 6: Add the Remaining Batter and Chocolate Chips
Drop spoonfuls of the remaining batter over the marshmallow fluff. Using a spatula, carefully spread the batter to cover the fluff layer. If you love a hint of chocolate, sprinkle semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the top for irresistible pockets of melty goodness.
Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You want the top to turn golden brown while ensuring a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean. This will give you bars with a tender inside and a slightly crisp exterior.
Step 8: Cool and Cut
Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 30 minutes. Using the parchment paper, lift the bars out of the pan and allow them to cool completely before slicing. This cooling step is crucial to ensure clean cuts and prevent the bars from falling apart.
How to Serve Fluffernutter Bars: The Ultimate Peanut Butter and Marshmallow Treat Recipe
Garnishes
For a little extra flair, dust the bars with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or drizzle them with melted peanut butter or chocolate. Chopped peanuts or mini marshmallows on top can add delightful texture and a fun look that’s perfect for parties or special occasions.
Side Dishes
Serve Fluffernutter Bars alongside a cold glass of milk for the classic pairing or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the peanut butter’s richness. Fresh fruit like sliced bananas or berries also works wonderfully to cut through the sweetness and add a refreshing bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the bars into small squares for bite-sized treats at a brunch or bake sale, or layer them into dessert parfaits with whipped cream and crushed cookies. Wrapping individual bars in wax paper tied with a ribbon makes for charming homemade gifts or lunchbox surprises.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Fluffernutter Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to enjoy their soft, fresh texture. If your kitchen is warm, storing them in the refrigerator will help maintain their shape and prevent the marshmallow fluff from becoming sticky.
Freezing
These bars freeze beautifully! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil or place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw them at room temperature for a few hours before serving for a freshly baked taste.
Reheating
If you prefer warm bars, gently reheat individual squares in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This brings back that gooey, melty marshmallow bliss and softens the peanut butter, making them taste just like freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a bit more texture and nutty crunch, which some people love. Just be aware it will change the overall consistency slightly, making the bars a bit heartier.
Is it necessary to use marshmallow fluff or can I substitute with marshmallows?
Marshmallow fluff blends smoothly into this recipe, creating that signature gooey layer. Using regular marshmallows might work, but you’ll need to melt them first, which can be a bit trickier and might change the texture.
Why are my Fluffernutter Bars coming out too dry?
Make sure not to overbake your bars, as that’s the most common cause of dryness. Also, be careful when mixing the batter — overmixing can develop gluten and toughen the texture.
Can I omit the chocolate chips?
Definitely! Chocolate chips are optional and easily left out if you want the classic peanut butter and marshmallow flavor to shine solo. The bars are delicious either way.
How do I cut the bars without them falling apart?
Let your bars cool completely before slicing, ideally after chilling them a bit in the fridge. Using a sharp knife warmed with hot water will also help you get clean, neat edges.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magic about Fluffernutter Bars: The Ultimate Peanut Butter and Marshmallow Treat Recipe that makes every bite feel like a warm hug from childhood. They’re straightforward to make, wonderfully indulgent, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and fall in love with these bars as much as I have. Happy baking, and even happier snacking!
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Fluffernutter Bars: The Ultimate Peanut Butter and Marshmallow Treat Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
Description
Fluffernutter Bars are a delightful treat combining the creamy richness of peanut butter with sweet marshmallow fluff, layered between a tender, golden-baked bar. This easy-to-make dessert features a buttery peanut butter batter with a gooey marshmallow center and optional semi-sweet chocolate chips for added decadence, perfect for snack time or dessert lovers looking for a nostalgic, satisfying bite.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup marshmallow fluff
Dry Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Sugars
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
Optional
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the bars after baking.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and peanut butter until smooth and creamy. Add granulated sugar and brown sugar, beating the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully mixed.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring carefully until just combined.
- Spread the Batter: Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula to form the base layer.
- Add Marshmallow Fluff Layer: Spoon the marshmallow fluff over the batter layer, then gently spread it out to cover the entire surface evenly without disturbing the batter too much.
- Add Remaining Batter: Drop spoonfuls of the remaining batter atop the marshmallow fluff. Carefully spread it out using a spatula to cover the marshmallow layer as much as possible.
- Sprinkle Chocolate Chips (Optional): Evenly distribute the semi-sweet chocolate chips over the top layer if using, for a hint of chocolaty flavor.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes or until the top turns golden and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean with only a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the baking pan from the oven and let the bars cool on a wire rack for approximately 30 minutes. Afterward, lift the bars out using the parchment paper and allow them to cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.
Notes
- For easier removal, ensure the parchment paper covers the sides of the pan.
- The marshmallow fluff layer should be spread gently to avoid mixing it into the batter.
- Chocolate chips are optional, but they add a delicious contrast to the sweet and peanut buttery flavors.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- To warm up bars before serving, microwave briefly in 10-second intervals for a soft, gooey texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
