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.