Peanut Butter: I used creamy peanut butter since this is a recipe for peanut butter blondies and peanut butter is the star. Alternatively, you may also use other types of nut butter such as almond butter, cashew butter, sunflower seed butter, etc.

Maple Syrup: I used maple syrup for a natural sweetener, but you can also use agave nectar or honey if you prefer. If you are diabetic of insulin-resistant, I highly recommend that you use maple-flavored monkfruit syrup (a substitute for maple syrup that is low glycemic index and will not raise your blood sugar that much).

Eggs: Eggs help to bind the ingredients together. I personally have not made this recipe without eggs. However, if you are allergic to eggs, or would simply prefer to keep this recipe egg-free and vegan, you may try substituting the eggs with acquafaba or an egg-replacer. (If you do make this recipe without eggs, please let me know how it goes in the comments below, I’d love to know!)

Gluten-Free Flour: I used a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to keep this recipe gluten-free. However, if you are not Celiac or gluten-intolerant, feel free to use regular flour instead.

Baking Soda: Baking soda is the only leavening agent in this gluten-free peanut butter blondies recipe, and is needed to help the blondie batter rise, so make sure you add it in. If you don’t have baking soda, you may use 2 teaspoons of baking powder instead. If you are Celiac or gluten-intolerant, make sure to use certified gluten-free baking soda or baking powder.

Chocolate: I used dairy-free chocolate to keep this recipe dairy-free. However, if you are not lactose-intolerant, feel free to use regular chocolate instead.

Storing: To store, place these peanut butter cookie bars in an airtight container or wrap in plastic wrap and store at room temperature for up to 4 days. To freeze, place the peanut butter blondies in a freezer-safe container or wrap them in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw the blondies in the microwave or oven for a few minutes or overnight in the refrigerator before eating.