Peanut Butter Blondies with Saffron & Coconut Sugar Glaze Recipe

These blondies reimagine the classic peanut butter bar with thoughtful enhancements for flavor, health, and cultural depth. The base is chewy, nutty, and golden — infused with creamy peanut butter and softened with olive oil instead of butter. Coconut sugar adds caramel undertones and a lower glycemic touch. The glaze is a standout: a gently sweet peanut butter coating enriched with saffron milk, adding elegance, mood support, and anti-inflammatory flair.

Perfect with afternoon tea or as a cozy dessert, these blondies bridge comfort baking with modern nutrition. And thanks to their simple one-bowl prep and flexible baking pan formats (loaf, tray, or individual cups), they’re great for wellness-minded home chefs who still crave decadence.

🍯 INGREDIENTS:

For the Blondie Base:

  • ¾ cup creamy natural peanut butter (unsweetened)
  • ½ cup olive oil or avocado oil (heart-healthy)
  • ¾ cup coconut sugar or powdered jaggery
  • 2 eggs (room temperature)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1¼ cups whole wheat or spelt flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional: ¼ cup chopped dark chocolate or cacao nibs
  • Optional: ¼ tsp cinnamon or cardamom (aromatic depth)

For the Saffron Glaze:

  • 3 tbsp creamy peanut butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or melted coconut oil
  • Pinch of saffron soaked in 1 tbsp warm plant-based milk
  • 3–4 tbsp powdered coconut sugar or maple syrup
  • 1–2 tbsp Greek yogurt or cashew cream (for richness and balance)

👩‍🍳 INSTRUCTIONS:

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

  • In a mixing bowl, whisk together peanut butter, oil, and coconut sugar until smooth.
  • Add eggs and vanilla, mix until light and emulsified.
  • In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices.
  • Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet. Mix until just combined. Don’t overmix!
  • Fold in optional chopped dark chocolate for added depth.

Step 2: Bake the Blondies

  • Line a square or rectangular baking tray (8×8-inch recommended) with parchment paper.
  • Spread the batter evenly and smooth the top.
  • Bake at 175°C (350°F) for 22–26 minutes — until edges are golden and a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
  • Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then lift out with parchment and transfer to wire rack.

Step 3: Make the Glaze

  • While blondies cool, prepare the saffron glaze.
  • In a small bowl, combine peanut butter, oil, soaked saffron milk, powdered coconut sugar, and Greek yogurt.
  • Whisk until smooth and pourable. Adjust thickness with extra milk or yogurt if needed.

Step 4: Glaze & Slice

  • Once blondies are completely cooled, spread saffron glaze over the top using an offset spatula or back of spoon.
  • Chill briefly to set glaze — about 15–20 minutes.
  • Slice into bars or squares and garnish with crushed nuts, rose petals, or saffron strands.

🌿 FUNCTIONAL NOTES:

  • Peanut butter offers protein, healthy fats, and satiety.
  • Saffron is prized in South Asian remedies for mood elevation and radiance.
  • Coconut sugar & olive oil lower the inflammatory load and support energy balance.
  • Greek yogurt introduces probiotics and creaminess without heaviness.

🫖 Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve with rose cardamom chai or saffron almond milk.
  • For festive occasions, wrap individually with twine and parchment — they make stunning wellness gifts.

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