Name: Irresistible Fluffernutter Bars for Sweet Cravings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 100 min
Ingredients: 0.5 cup Butter (Softened, unsalted); 0.33 cup Peanut Butter (Regular recommended); 1 cup Brown Sugar (Packed); 1 large Egg; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 1.25 cups All-Purpose Flour; 9-12 pieces Peanut Butter Cups (Regular size); 0.67 cup Chocolate Chips (Dark or semi-sweet recommended); 7 ounces Marshmallow Crème (Can substitute with fluff)

As I stood in the kitchen, the warm aroma of melting chocolate and toasted peanut butter wafted through the air, instantly transporting me back to carefree childhood days. These Fluffernutter Bars are the ultimate sweet escape, featuring delectable layers of chocolate chip cookie dough, rich marshmallow fluff, and crunchy peanut butter cups. This American dessert isn’t just a treat for kids; it’s a nostalgic favorite that brings smiles to all ages. One of the best perks? They’re incredibly quick to whip up and perfect for any gathering, ensuring you’ll leave the kitchen with a crowd-pleaser that disappears faster than you can say “dessert.” Curious about how these delightful bars come together? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!

Why are Fluffernutter Bars so loved?

Indulgent layers of chocolate and peanut butter make every bite a heavenly experience. Quick and easy to prepare, you’ll be enjoying these bars in no time. Kid-friendly yet adored by adults, they’re perfect for family gatherings or potlucks. Versatile variations let you customize them to suit your taste, whether it’s adding graham crackers or swapping out for caramel. Think you’ll love these bars? Try them alongside our delicious Strawberry Rhubarb Bars for an equally irresistible treat!

Fluffernutter Bars Ingredients

For the Cookie Base
• Butter (1/2 cup) – Provides richness and moisture; use softened, unsalted butter for best results.
• Peanut Butter (1/3 cup) – Enhances flavor and adds creaminess; regular peanut butter is recommended to avoid separation.
• Brown Sugar (1 cup, packed) – Adds sweetness and moisture; can substitute with granulated sugar for a less rich flavor.
• Egg (1) – Binds the ingredients together, ensuring the bars hold their shape.
• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) – Introduces a sweet aroma and flavor, enhancing overall taste.
• All-Purpose Flour (1 1/4 cups) – Provides structure to the bars, giving them that perfect chewy texture.

For the Sweet Layers
• Peanut Butter Cups (9-12 regular size) – Adds chocolate flavor and texture; can substitute with other chocolate candies for a twist.
• Chocolate Chips (2/3 cup) – Provide extra chocolate melty goodness; dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips work best.
• Marshmallow Crème (7 ounces) – Creates a sticky, sweet layer; marshmallow fluff can be used interchangeably for the same effect.

These delightful Fluffernutter Bars combine all these ingredients to create an irresistible American dessert that will surely become a family favorite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Fluffernutter Bars

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, take an 8 x 11 inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, allowing the edges to hang over for easy removal later. This setup ensures your Fluffernutter Bars bake evenly and don’t stick to the pan, making for easier slicing once they’re baked.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter and 1 cup packed brown sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat these ingredients on medium speed for about 3 minutes, until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the batter, contributing to the deliciously chewy texture of your Fluffernutter Bars.

Step 3: Add Egg, Peanut Butter, and Vanilla
Next, crack in 1 large egg and add 1/3 cup of creamy peanut butter along with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix on low speed until everything is well incorporated, about 1-2 minutes. The mixture should be smooth and combined, with no hints of butter or dry ingredients remaining. This rich blend will be the base of your decadent bars.

Step 4: Mix in Flour and Chocolate Chips
Gradually add 1 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour into the bowl, mixing on low until just combined. Using a spatula, gently fold in 2/3 cup of chocolate chips. This final step ensures the cookie dough is thick and chewy, while those melty chocolate chips will create pockets of sweetness throughout each Fluffernutter Bar.

Step 5: Layer the Dough in the Pan
Press about two-thirds of the dough into the bottom of your prepared baking pan, using your fingers or a spatula to create an even layer. You want this layer to cover the bottom completely. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable, as this forms the base for the delicious layers of chocolate and marshmallow to come.

Step 6: Add Peanut Butter Cups and Marshmallow Crème
Evenly layer 9-12 regular-sized peanut butter cups over the pressed dough, ensuring they fit snugly. Then, generously spread 7 ounces of marshmallow crème over the candy layer. This will create a gooey, sweet filling in your Fluffernutter Bars, giving them that signature melty texture that everyone loves.

Step 7: Top with Remaining Dough
Take the remaining dough and pinch off small pieces to distribute evenly over the marshmallow layer. Lightly press the dough down to form a cohesive top layer. This step ensures that the Fluffernutter Bars hold together nicely while baking, providing a delightful balance of flavors and textures in every bite.

Step 8: Bake Your Bars
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and set. Watch closely as it bakes; the edges should be firm yet the center may still be a little soft, which is perfect. This incredible golden crust will give your Fluffernutter Bars the ideal chewy texture.

Step 9: Cool and Slice
Remove the pan from the oven and allow the Fluffernutter Bars to cool in the pan for about 1 hour. After cooling, use the overhanging parchment paper to lift the bars out of the pan. Place them on a wire rack to cool completely before slicing into squares. This cooling process ensures that the layers set beautifully for clean cuts and easy serving.

Fluffernutter Bars Variations & Substitutions

Get ready to customize your Fluffernutter Bars with fun variations that will awaken your creativity in the kitchen!

Nut-Free: Use sunbutter in place of peanut butter for a nut-free option that still packs flavor and creaminess.
Graham Cracker Crust: Blend crushed graham crackers into the base for a delightful crunch reminiscent of a classic s’more. Imagine layers of flavor blending as you take each bite!
Nutty Flavor Boost: Add chopped hazelnuts or walnuts to the dough for an additional nutty crunch that complements the sweetness perfectly.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the cookie mixture for a surprising twist that tantalizes the taste buds.
Caramel Delight: Drizzle caramel sauce over the marshmallow layer for an indulgent twist that will have everyone coming back for more.
White Chocolate: Swap dark chocolate chips with white chocolate for a sweeter, creamier flavor that kids will adore.
Fruit Fusion: Add chopped dried fruits like cranberries or cherries for a tangy balance that elevates the sweetness of the bars.
Marshmallow Fluff Swirl: Instead of a layer, fold the marshmallow fluff directly into the dough for pockets of gooey goodness throughout.

For additional inspiration, why not serve your Fluffernutter Bars alongside our delicious Strawberry Rhubarb Bars? They’ll complement each other beautifully at your next gathering!

What to Serve with Decadent Fluffernutter Bars?

Imagine a gathering filled with laughter and warmth, where everyone indulges in a sweet slice of heaven that captures the essence of comfort food.

Cold Milk: The classic pairing to complement the rich flavors, a glass of chilled milk enhances each bite.
Strong Coffee: The boldness of coffee offsets the sweetness, providing a delightful contrast that keeps you coming back for more.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Scoop a generous amount atop a warm Fluffernutter Bar for a decadent dessert experience, melding creamy and gooey textures beautifully.
Fresh Fruit Skewers: The juiciness of seasonal fruits balances out the richness of the bars, adding a refreshing touch to every bite.
Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted chocolate elevates the presentation and adds an extra layer of indulgence that chocolate lovers will adore.
Salted Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of this sweet and salty sauce creates an irresistible contrast that elevates the already decadent flavors.
Lightly Sweetened Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream offers a fluffy texture that enhances the bar’s rich layers, making each bite feel more luxurious.
Nutty Hot Chocolate: For a cozy touch, serve with a steaming mug of nut-infused hot chocolate, enveloping your senses in a comforting embrace.
Graham Cracker Crumbs: Sprinkle some crumbs atop your bars for a delightful crunch that ties in with the classic graham cracker flavors in Fluffernutter can evoke.

How to Store and Freeze Fluffernutter Bars

Airtight Container: Store leftover Fluffernutter Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their deliciously chewy texture.

Refrigeration: If you’d like to keep your bars fresh longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just be sure to wrap them tightly to avoid drying out.

Freezing: To freeze, cut the bars into squares and place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply let the Fluffernutter Bars thaw at room temperature or microwave for 10-15 seconds for that gooey texture you love!

Make Ahead Options

These Fluffernutter Bars are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cookie base up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the initial steps and store the unbaked dough in the refrigerator wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. Additionally, the layers of peanut butter cups and marshmallow crème can be assembled in the pan, covered, and refrigerated for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, return the pan to room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven. This method ensures your bars remain just as delicious and gooey, making your life easier while still delighting everyone with a decadent dessert!

Expert Tips for Fluffernutter Bars

Perfect Butter Texture: Make sure your butter is thoroughly softened but not melted; this gives the bars their ideal chewy texture without becoming greasy.
Peanut Butter Choice: Stick to regular peanut butter as natural varieties can separate during baking, potentially ruining the consistency of your Fluffernutter Bars.
Cooling Matters: Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least an hour; this helps them set properly, making cutting much easier later on.
Layering Technique: When pressing the dough layers, don’t stress about perfection. Just aim for an even layer, and remember, the marshmallow fluff will help everything bind together!
Baking Time Caution: Keep a close eye on the baking process; if they start to brown too quickly, cover lightly with foil, ensuring a soft center and golden top without overbaking.

Fluffernutter Bars Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe ingredients?
Absolutely! For the best results with your Fluffernutter Bars, ensure you use high-quality, softened unsalted butter, which should be creamy but not melted. When selecting peanut butter, opt for regular peanut butter, as it has a consistent texture that won’t separate, ensuring deliciously creamy bars!

How should I store leftover Fluffernutter Bars?
You can store leftover Fluffernutter Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 to 3 days. If you want to extend their freshness, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just make sure they’re well-wrapped to avoid drying out.

Can I freeze Fluffernutter Bars, and if so, how?
The more the merrier! To freeze your Fluffernutter Bars, first, cut them into squares. Then, arrange them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container. Seal it tightly, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, just let them thaw at room temperature or microwave for 10-15 seconds.

What should I do if my bars come out too gooey?
If your Fluffernutter Bars turn out too gooey, there’s an easy workaround! Next time, consider baking them a little longer—5 minutes can make a big difference! Additionally, allowing the bars to cool completely before slicing will help them set nicely. Refrigerating them for about 30 minutes after baking will also firm them up for easier cutting.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very! If you’re serving Fluffernutter Bars to kids or guests with allergies, make sure to check for nut allergies as they contain peanut butter and peanut butter cups. Also, if any of your guests have a gluten sensitivity, consider using a gluten-free flour blend to substitute in the recipe. Enjoying homemade treats should feel safe and inclusive for everyone!