When you think of comforting, nostalgic desserts, Fluffernutter Bars certainly come to mind. If you’ve ever enjoyed the classic combination of peanut butter and marshmallow fluff on bread, then you’ll surely appreciate these delicious bars that bring all those lovely flavors together in a sweet, gooey, and chewy delight. Ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or simply as an afternoon snack, these bars are easy to make and will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Why We Love This Fluffernutter Bars Recipe
There’s something special about Fluffernutter Bars that transcends mere ingredients. The blend of textures—from the soft and chewy base to the creamy marshmallow topping—creates a heavenly experience with every bite. These bars are an uncomplicated yet delightful treat that indulges your sweet tooth without fuss. The rich peanut butter provides a satisfying nutty flavor, balanced perfectly with the sweetness of the marshmallow fluff. Plus, who can resist a dessert that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious?
You’ll find that every component plays an essential role in making these bars not just good, but great. Whether sharing them with friends or keeping them all to yourself, you’ll love how they bring joy and nostalgia to your kitchen.
Ingredients for Fluffernutter Bars
To make these delightful Fluffernutter Bars, here’s what you’ll need:
- 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
Gathering these ingredients is an essential first step toward your baking adventure. Make sure each component is prepped and ready for action!
How to Make Fluffernutter Bars Directions
Creating Fluffernutter Bars is a straightforward process that almost anyone can master. Follow these easy steps to whip up your very own batch:
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and placing the oven rack in the middle.
- Prepare Your Pan: Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Lightly grease it to ensure your bars come out easily after baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent and ensures a perfect rise.
- Cream the Butters and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter along with brown sugar and white sugar until the mixture becomes soft and fluffy. This step is vital as it incorporates air, giving your bars a light texture.
- Incorporate the Peanut Butter: Next, add the smooth peanut butter to the butter and sugar mixture. Beat until everything is well blended and smooth.
- Add the Eggs: Mix in the large egg and the egg yolk until fully combined with the batter. The egg yolk adds richness and moisture to your bars.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually fold the flour mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want your batter to retain its tenderness.
- Set the Base: Remove about 1 cup of the batter and set it aside for later. With the rest of the batter, press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. This acts as the base for your Fluffernutter Bars.
- Bake the Base: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the base feels set and lightly golden.
- Add Marshmallow Fluff: Once baked, take the pan out of the oven and spread the marshmallow fluff evenly across the top of the baked base. This layer not only adds sweetness but also that irresistible gooey flavor.
- Top with Reserved Batter: Tear off little bits of the reserved batter and pinch it over the marshmallow fluff. This creates a layered effect that adds both flavor and texture.
- Final Bake: Return the pan to the oven for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the top to firm up. You’ll want to make sure it doesn’t overbake; the bars should stay soft and chewy.
- Cool and Slice: Let the Bars cool for at least an hour before slicing them into squares. Enjoy the waiting time as the delicious aroma wafts through your kitchen!
Making these bars is a true labor of love that ends with a warm, sweet treat that everyone will rave about.
How to Serve Fluffernutter Bars
Once your Fluffernutter Bars have cooled and reached the perfect texture, it’s time to serve them up. Here are some fun ideas for enjoying this delicious dessert:
- Classic Cut: Slice the bars into squares and serve them on a platter for everyone to grab. They are great for sharing at parties or family gatherings.
- Pair with Milk: Enjoy your Fluffernutter Bars with a tall glass of cold milk. The creaminess of the milk perfectly complements the rich peanut butter and marshmallow flavors.
- Dressing it Up: Consider drizzling some melted chocolate over the bars for an added layer of flavor. This extra step not only makes them look enticing but enhances the sweet experience.
- Garnish: Top your bars with chopped peanuts or a sprinkle of sea salt for a touch of crunch and flavor contrast.
These bars are versatile and can be enjoyed in many different setups. Whether served at a celebration or as a simple treat at home, your Fluffernutter Bars are bound to be a hit!
Expert Tips for Perfect Fluffernutter Bars
To ensure that your Fluffernutter Bars turn out perfectly every time, here are some expert tips to keep in mind:
- Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature before mixing. This makes it easier to cream with the sugars and leads to a better texture.
- Don’t Overmix: When incorporating the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tougher bars.
- Use a Good Quality Peanut Butter: Choose a smooth, high-quality peanut butter for the best flavor and texture. Natural peanut butter can also work, but avoid the kinds that contain extra sugar or additives.
- Space Between Dough Pieces: When pinching off pieces of the batter to place on top of the fluff, leave a little space between them so they can bake evenly.
- Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the oven during the final 10 minutes of baking to avoid overcooking the top. You want a lightly golden top that feels set to the touch.
These tips will enhance your baking experience and create bars that are absolutely irresistible!
How to Store Fluffernutter Bars
When it comes to storing leftover Fluffernutter Bars, keeping them fresh is a priority. Here’s how to do it:
- Room Temperature: You can store the bars at room temperature in an airtight container. They will remain good for about three days.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, place the bars in the fridge. Just ensure they are tightly covered to avoid drying out. They can last up to a week in the fridge.
- Freezing: If you want to keep them for an even longer period, consider freezing them. Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving.
Following these storage tips will help maintain the freshness and deliciousness of your Fluffernutter Bars.
Variations of Fluffernutter Bars
While the classic Fluffernutter recipe is undoubtedly delightful, you can mix things up and create your own spin on these bars. Here are some variation ideas:
- Chocolate-Chip Fluffernutter Bars: Stir in a cup of chocolate chips into the batter for a rich chocolatey flavor that pairs perfectly with the peanut butter.
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts, like walnuts or almonds, to the dough for an added crunch. This not only enhances the texture but gives it an extra nutty flavor.
- Banana Flavor: Introduce mashed banana to the batter for a hint of fruitiness. This pairs surprisingly well with the peanut butter and marshmallow fluff.
- Add Spice: If you want to spice things up a bit, consider mixing in a teaspoon of cinnamon or instant espresso powder to the batter for an unexpected but delightful flavor twist.
Experimenting with these variations can bring a whole new dimension to your Fluffernutter Bars, making them a fun treat to enjoy in different ways.
FAQ: Fluffernutter Bars
What are Fluffernutter Bars?
Fluffernutter Bars are a dessert made with a delicious combination of peanut butter, marshmallow fluff, and a soft cookie base. They embody the classic flavors of the traditional fluffernutter sandwich but in bar form.
How long do Fluffernutter Bars last?
When stored properly, Fluffernutter Bars can last up to three days at room temperature, a week in the fridge, and up to three months in the freezer. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?
Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer a little texture in your bars. Just keep in mind that it will slightly alter the mouthfeel but will still be delicious!
Can I make Fluffernutter Bars gluten-free?
To make these bars gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend. However, be mindful that different flour blends may create slightly different textures.
How do I prevent the marshmallow fluff from sticking?
To prevent the marshmallow fluff from sticking to your spatula or knife while spreading, you can lightly greased the utensil with cooking spray or oil. This will make the process much smoother.
Fluffernutter Bars
Ingredients
Base 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
Topping Ingredients
- 7 oz jar marshmallow fluff
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and place the oven rack in the middle.
- Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil and lightly grease it.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with the brown sugar and white sugar until fluffy.
- Add the smooth peanut butter to the mixture and beat until well blended and smooth.
- Mix in the large egg and egg yolk until fully combined.
- Gradually fold the flour mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Set aside about 1 cup of the batter and press the rest evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
Baking
- Bake the base for about 25 minutes or until lightly golden.
- Spread the marshmallow fluff evenly over the baked base.
- Pinch off pieces of the reserved batter and scatter it over the fluff.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Cooling
- Let the bars cool for at least an hour before slicing into squares.
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