Peanut Butter and Jelly Brownies

As a kid, nothing made me happier than coming home to the rich aroma of something sweet baking in the oven. One of my all-time favorites is the Peanut Butter and Jelly Brownies. These brownies take me back to my childhood, where the simple combination of peanut butter and jelly transformed into a mouthwatering dessert that was both nostalgic and comforting. Whenever I make these brownies, I reminisce about school lunches and afternoon snacks with friends. The gooey chocolate combined with the creamy peanut butter and fruity jelly creates a blend of flavors that dance on your palate. It’s a recipe that brings joy and a sense of togetherness, perfect for sharing with family or friends.

What You Need for Peanut Butter and Jelly Brownies

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step towards making the perfect Peanut Butter and Jelly Brownies. The key components work harmoniously to create a decadent treat. From the rich chocolate base to the creamy peanut butter and fruity jelly, each ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering that classic flavor combination we all adore.

• 2 ounces unsweetened baking chocolate – This gives the brownies their rich chocolate flavor, creating a base that’s both fudgy and satisfying.
• 2 ounces semi-sweet baking chocolate – Adds that perfect sweetness, balancing the bitterness of the unsweetened chocolate.
• 3/4 cup butter – Ensures a moist texture and brings everything together beautifully.
• 1 3/4 cups sugar – Sweetens the brownies, making them irresistible.
• 3 eggs – Provides structure and richness, creating the gooey texture we crave.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla – Enhances the overall flavor profile, adding a warm depth of taste.
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder – Intensifies the chocolate flavor, making these brownies even more decadent.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour – Forms the structure of the brownies, making them chewy and delicious.
• 1/4 cup peanut butter – A must for the signature flavor, adding creaminess and richness.
• 1 tablespoon melted butter – Helps combine the peanut butter mixture smoothly.
• 3 tablespoons powdered sugar – Sweetens the peanut butter topping, making it delightful.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla – Adds a lovely aroma and flavor to the peanut butter mixture.
• 1/2 cup jelly – Your favorite flavor will do; I suggest strawberry for the perfect pairing with peanut butter.

Recipe Steps for Peanut Butter and Jelly Brownies

Making these Peanut Butter and Jelly Brownies is a fun and straightforward process! Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll be rewarded with a delicious dessert that will wow everyone.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Start by lining a 9×9-inch baking pan with foil and spraying it with cooking spray. This step is crucial for easy removal once your brownies are baked. The foil will help you lift the brownies out of the pan without sticking.

2. In a large, microwave-safe bowl, combine unsweetened baking chocolate and semi-sweet baking chocolate with butter. Heat on high power for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds until the mixture is completely smooth. This melting process is essential for the perfect texture, so be patient and keep an eye on it.

3. Once melted, remove from the microwave and stir in sugar. Make sure it’s well combined before proceeding. After this, add in the eggs, vanilla, salt, and cocoa powder. Stir until everything is integrated. You’ll notice the mixture gets glossier and richer as you mix.

4. Next, gently fold in the flour. Be careful not to over-mix; you want the batter to be just combined to keep the brownies tender and chewy. Once combined, spread the batter evenly in your prepared baking pan.

5. Now, let’s make the peanut butter topping! In a separate bowl, mix peanut butter, melted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. This topping will add that delicious creamy layer to your brownies, enhancing their flavor.

6. Drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter mixture on top of the brownie batter. Using a butter knife or the back of a wooden spoon, swirl the peanut butter into the brownie batter. Don’t worry about making it perfect; the swirls add to the charm!

7. Now for the jelly! Place jelly in a small bowl and stir until smooth. Drizzle it over the brownie batter and swirl as you did with the peanut butter. Make sure to keep the jelly away from the edges of the pan so it doesn’t bubble during cooking.

8. Pop the pan in the oven and bake for about 28 to 35 minutes. The edges will start to crack slightly, but the center will remain gooey. I love mine at 29 minutes for that perfect fudgy texture. If you prefer them more done, add a few extra minutes.

9. Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan. This step is crucial; waiting will allow them to set properly, making slicing much easier.

10. Finally, once cooled, lift the brownies out of the pan using the foil. Slice them into bars, and enjoy the decadent treat you’ve just made!

Recipe Variations about Peanut Butter and Jelly Brownies

There are so many ways to switch up your Peanut Butter and Jelly Brownies to keep things exciting! Here are some ideas to inspire you:

• Mix It Up: Try different flavors of jelly like raspberry or apricot for a unique twist.
• Nutty Additions: Incorporate chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, into the brownie batter for an added crunch.
• Chocolate Swirl: Add melted chocolate swirls into the peanut butter layer for an even richer flavor.
• Mini Brownies: Use a mini muffin tin to create bite-sized versions; perfect for parties or snacks!
• Frosting Finish: Top with chocolate ganache or a simple buttercream frosting for an indulgent finish.
• Storage: Keep your brownies in an airtight container to maintain freshness and moisture.
• Freezing: These brownies freeze well! Wrap them individually and store them in the freezer for a delicious treat anytime.

Great Combinations for Peanut Butter and Jelly Brownies

When it comes to serving your Peanut Butter and Jelly Brownies, the possibilities are endless! Here are some fantastic ideas to accompany your brownies:

• Ice Cream: Serve warm brownies topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad makes a perfect side, balancing the rich flavors of the brownies.
• Milk or Coffee: Pair your brownies with a glass of cold milk or a cup of coffee to enhance the chocolate flavor.
• Picnics: These brownies are great for picnics and potlucks; they hold up well and are easy to transport.
• Celebrations: Bring them to birthday parties or family gatherings; they’re sure to be a hit with everyone!
• Storage Tips: Keep brownies in an airtight container to maintain their moistness. They can be stored at room temperature for several days.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Peanut Butter and Jelly Brownies are a fun twist on a classic favorite that everyone will love. They’re easy to make and perfect for sharing, making them a great addition to any gathering. I encourage you to try this recipe for your next dessert; you won’t be disappointed with the delicious results!

Peanut Butter and Jelly Brownies

The ultimate comfort food, these Peanut Butter and Jelly Brownies are rich, fudgy, and simply irresistible. With layers of creamy peanut butter and sweet jelly, they make for the perfect dessert that everyone will love. Treat yourself to this easy weeknight dessert!

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Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 16 servings

Calories 200 kcal

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Frying Pan
• Chef's Knife
• Large Pot
• Baking Sheet
• Oven

Ingredients

  

• 2 ounces unsweetened baking chocolate coarsely chopped
• 2 ounces semi-sweet baking chocolate coarsely chopped
• 3/4 cup butter
• 1 3/4 cups sugar
• 3 eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder I love using Hershey’s Dark, but you can use either regular or dark
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup peanut butter
• 1 tablespoon butter melted
• 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1/2 cup jelly your favorite flavor; I used strawberry

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 350°F. Start by lining a 9x9-inch baking pan with foil and spraying it with cooking spray. This step is crucial for easy removal once your brownies are baked. The foil will help you lift the brownies out of the pan without sticking.
• In a large, microwave-safe bowl, combine unsweetened baking chocolate and semi-sweet baking chocolate with butter. Heat on high power for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds until the mixture is completely smooth. This melting process is essential for the perfect texture, so be patient and keep an eye on it.
• Once melted, remove from the microwave and stir in sugar. Make sure it’s well combined before proceeding. After this, add in the eggs, vanilla, salt, and cocoa powder. Stir until everything is integrated. You’ll notice the mixture gets glossier and richer as you mix.
• Next, gently fold in the flour. Be careful not to over-mix; you want the batter to be just combined to keep the brownies tender and chewy. Once combined, spread the batter evenly in your prepared baking pan.
• Now, let’s make the peanut butter topping! In a separate bowl, mix peanut butter, melted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. This topping will add that delicious creamy layer to your brownies, enhancing their flavor.
• Drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter mixture on top of the brownie batter. Using a butter knife or the back of a wooden spoon, swirl the peanut butter into the brownie batter. Don’t worry about making it perfect; the swirls add to the charm!
• Now for the jelly! Place jelly in a small bowl and stir until smooth. Drizzle it over the brownie batter and swirl as you did with the peanut butter. Make sure to keep the jelly away from the edges of the pan so it doesn’t bubble during cooking.
• Pop the pan in the oven and bake for about 28 to 35 minutes. The edges will start to crack slightly, but the center will remain gooey. I love mine at 29 minutes for that perfect fudgy texture. If you prefer them more done, add a few extra minutes.
• Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan. This step is crucial; waiting will allow them to set properly, making slicing much easier.
• Finally, once cooled, lift the brownies out of the pan using the foil. Slice them into bars, and enjoy the decadent treat you’ve just made!

Notes

• Cooling Time: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan; this helps them set properly and makes for easier slicing.
• Testing for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check for doneness—insert it into the center, and if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they’re perfect.
• Mixing Technique: When combining ingredients, avoid overmixing after adding the flour to keep your brownies tender.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If they last that long!

Keyword brownie recipe, Dessert Recipes, Jelly Brownies, Peanut Butter Brownies