Fluffernutter Bars Recipe

If you love the nostalgic flavor of peanut butter and marshmallow combined in a deliciously gooey treat, you are going to adore these Fluffernutter Bars. They capture that classic sandwich essence but in a soft, chewy bar form that’s perfect for snacking, sharing, or sneaking a bite whenever the craving hits. With a buttery peanut butter base, a luscious layer of marshmallow fluff in the middle, and delightful cookie dough pinches baked on top, these bars are a heavenly mix of textures and flavors that feels both comforting and exciting all at once.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients might seem simple, but each one plays a crucial role in building the wonderful taste and texture of the Fluffernutter Bars. From the rich peanut butter to the light and fluffy marshmallow, it’s a basic pantry lineup that comes together to create something truly special.

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and that perfect cookie chewiness in the bars.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps give the bars a slight lift, keeping them tender.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and moisture for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 3/4 cup brown sugar: Brings a deep, caramel-like sweetness that pairs beautifully with peanut butter.
• 1/3 cup white sugar: Adds a bit of extra sweetness and helps with texture.
• 1 1/2 cups smooth peanut butter: The star ingredient providing the signature nutty flavor and creamy feel.
• 1 large egg: Binds everything together, giving the bars structure and richness.
• 1 large egg yolk: Adds extra moisture without the extra egg white, keeping bars tender.
• 7 oz jar marshmallow fluff: Creates the gooey, dreamy middle layer everyone will love.

How to Make Fluffernutter Bars

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and setting the rack in the middle. Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper or lightly greased foil, making sure to leave an overhang for easy removal later. This simple prep step ensures your bars bake evenly and come out cleanly without any fuss.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This blend of dry ingredients will give your bars just the right crumb and lift they need, setting the foundation for the rich peanut butter dough.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

Using a mixer, beat the softened butter with both brown and white sugars until the mixture looks soft and fluffy. This step adds lightness and sweetness that will balance the dense peanut butter flavor beautifully.

Step 4: Add Peanut Butter and Eggs

Mix the peanut butter into the creamed butter and sugars until smooth. Then add the whole egg and extra egg yolk, beating until everything is silky and well combined, creating a luscious batter that is ready for the dry ingredients.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Reserve Dough

On low speed, gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated. Remove about one cup of this dough and set it aside. This reserved dough will later become the delightful topping for the bars, adding texture and flavor contrast.

Step 6: Form the Base Layer and Bake

Press the remaining peanut butter dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Bake for 25 minutes until the surface is set. This layer will serve as the chewy, nutty foundation for your Fluffernutter Bars.

Step 7: Add Marshmallow Fluff and Topping

Remove the pan and carefully spread the entire jar of marshmallow fluff over the baked cookie base. Pinch off small pieces from the reserved dough, slightly flatten them, and scatter over the marshmallow layer covering about 80 to 90 percent of it. This creates a lovely, slightly crisp peanut butter topping that brings the bars to life.

Step 8: Final Bake and Cool

Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes to set the topping perfectly. Afterward, remove the pan and allow the bars to cool at room temperature for at least one hour. Cooling helps the marshmallow layer firm up slightly for easier slicing.

Step 9: Slice and Serve

Using the parchment or foil overhang, lift the entire slab out of the pan and onto a cutting board. For neat slices, lightly grease a thin, sharp knife with cooking spray before each cut to prevent the marshmallow from sticking. Then, enjoy that perfect blend of peanut butter and fluffy sweetness!

How to Serve Fluffernutter Bars

Garnishes

You can sprinkle a few chopped peanuts on top just before serving for extra crunch, or drizzle a little melted chocolate for some decadent contrast. A dusting of powdered sugar also brings a pretty, delicate finish to these already wonderful bars.

Side Dishes

These bars pair delightfully with a glass of cold milk to balance the sweetness, or a hot cup of coffee or tea if you want something warm. Fresh fruit like sliced apples or berries can also provide a refreshing counterpoint.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut your Fluffernutter Bars into bite-sized squares for parties or assemble mini versions on skewers alternating with marshmallows and peanuts for a fun twist. You can also sandwich two bars with extra marshmallow fluff inside for an extra gooey treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your Fluffernutter Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them soft and fresh. If you want them a bit firmer, refrigerate for up to a week but bring to room temperature before eating for the best texture.

Freezing

These bars freeze beautifully. Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw at room temperature or for quick thawing, microwave gently for a few seconds.

Reheating

If you prefer warm bars, simply microwave a bar for 10 to 15 seconds. The marshmallow will soften and the flavors meld wonderfully, making each bite feel freshly made and irresistibly gooey.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?

While smooth peanut butter creates a creamier texture, using crunchy peanut butter can add a nice bit of extra crunch and interest to these bars. Just be aware the texture will be a bit different but still delicious!

Is there a substitute for marshmallow fluff?

If marshmallow fluff is hard to find, you can use mini marshmallows melted gently with a bit of corn syrup or honey to achieve a similar gooey middle layer. Just be sure to use them carefully so they don’t melt too much and soak into the dough.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour. Just ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for texture. The bars should turn out just as tasty and chewy.

How thick should I press the dough in the pan?

Press the dough evenly and firmly but don’t compress it too much. About a half-inch thickness gives the perfect base that bakes up chewy but sturdy enough to hold the gooey marshmallow and topping without collapsing.

Are these bars kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Fluffernutter Bars are a fun, sweet treat kids adore because of the peanut butter and marshmallow combo. Just be cautious if serving to children with peanut allergies.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with these Fluffernutter Bars whether you’re bringing a cozy homemade dessert to a gathering or simply craving a sweet snack at home. The way the peanut butter and marshmallow layers play together is pure comfort on every bite. I encourage you to make a batch and see just how quickly these bars become your new favorite treat to share and savor!

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