Peanut Butter Brownies

There’s something undeniably captivating about Peanut Butter Brownies. Picture this: it’s a cozy evening, and the aroma of melting chocolate fills the air, mingling with the rich scent of creamy peanut butter. I recall the first time I made these sweet squares; it was an experiment in my small kitchen, and the moment I took my first bite, I was hooked. The way the fudgy brownie contrasts with the smooth and luscious peanut butter layer is pure magic. These treats have since become a staple in my home, perfect for satisfying my sweet tooth or sharing with friends during gatherings.

Every bite of these Peanut Butter Brownies is a delightful experience that brings joy and comfort. Whether it’s an ordinary Tuesday or a special occasion, these brownies deliver a delicious punch. The best part? They are incredibly easy to whip up, making them an ideal choice for both novice and experienced bakers. I love how versatile they are; you can serve them as a simple dessert or dress them up with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce. Trust me, once you share them with others, they will be begging for the recipe!

As I often say, baking is more than just following a recipe; it’s about creating moments and memories. So why not turn your kitchen into a place of joy and laughter with these rich Peanut Butter Brownies? They’re sure to become a beloved recipe in your household as they did in mine. Let’s dive into the details of crafting these heavenly treats together!

Ingredient List for Peanut Butter Brownies

When it comes to the ingredients for these Peanut Butter Brownies, each component plays a vital role in achieving that luxurious flavor and texture. The key players like creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and unsweetened chocolate come together beautifully to create a dessert that’s both rich and satisfying.

• 1½ cups (405g) creamy peanut butter: This serves as the star ingredient, offering a luscious texture and nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with chocolate.
• 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture to the brownie base, ensuring every bite is soft and fudgy.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness of the brownies and adds a warm, comforting flavor.
• 2 cups (227g) powdered sugar: Sweetens the peanut butter filling, balancing out the flavors and giving a delightful creaminess.
• ⅓ cup (28g) Dutch-processed cocoa powder: Provides a deep chocolate flavor that is essential for the brownie base.
• ½ cup (120ml) + 2 tablespoons boiling water: Used to dissolve the cocoa, ensuring a smooth batter.
• 2 ounces unsweetened chocolate, finely chopped: Intensifies the chocolate flavor in the brownies, making them more decadent.
• 4 tablespoons (57g) unsalted butter, melted: Incorporates into the brownie batter for richness.
• ½ cup (99g) + 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Adds moisture and ensures that brownies do not dry out.
• 2 eggs: Binds the ingredients together and provides structure to the brownies.
• 2 egg yolks: Enhances richness and tenderness, making the brownies more fudgy.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Provides an extra layer of flavor in the brownie batter.
• 2½ cups (495g) granulated sugar: Sweetens the brownies, balancing the bitterness of the cocoa and chocolate.
• 1¾ cups (210g) all-purpose flour: The backbone of the brownie, providing structure while keeping them soft.
• ¾ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 1 cup (170g) semisweet chocolate chips, optional: A delicious optional mix-in that adds bursts of chocolate in every bite.

Step by Step Guide for Peanut Butter Brownies

Making Peanut Butter Brownies is a delightful journey, and I can’t wait for you to experience it. Follow these simple steps, and soon you’ll have a pan of irresistible brownies to share (or keep all to yourself!).

1. Adjust the oven rack to the lowest position and preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This step ensures your brownies bake evenly and achieve that perfect fudgy texture.
2. Spray a 9×13-inch pan with non-stick cooking spray, then line it with parchment paper. Leave about a one-inch overhang on the sides, which will make it easier to lift the brownies out once they’re baked.
3. Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling: In a medium bowl, melt the creamy peanut butter and unsalted butter together in the microwave until completely melted and smooth, about 1 to 2 minutes. Stir occasionally for even melting.
4. Whisk in the vanilla extract, then gradually add the powdered sugar until the mixture is completely smooth. Set aside while you prepare the brownie batter.
5. In a large bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder and the boiling water until smooth. The heat helps dissolve the cocoa, creating a rich base.
6. Add the finely chopped unsweetened chocolate to the mixture and whisk until melted. This will deepen the chocolate flavor of your brownies.
7. Next, whisk in the melted butter and vegetable oil. If the mixture looks a bit curdled, don’t worry; that’s normal! Adding the eggs will smooth it out.
8. Incorporate the eggs, egg yolks, and another dose of vanilla extract. Whisk until the batter is smooth and homogeneous. You want it to look glossy and well-mixed.
9. Slowly whisk in the granulated sugar until fully incorporated. The sugar will help to sweeten and create that lovely texture.
10. Gently mix in the all-purpose flour and salt using a rubber spatula until just combined. Don’t overmix—it’s okay if there are a few lumps!
11. If you love chocolate, fold in the chocolate chips, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
12. Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it into an even layer. This will be the base layer for your Peanut Butter Brownies.
13. Take the peanut butter filling and turn it out onto a clean work surface. Press it into a rough rectangle that fits the size of your pan.
14. Gently transfer the filling onto the brownie batter in the pan. It doesn’t have to be perfect; any imperfections add character!
15. Pour the remaining brownie batter over the peanut butter filling and spread it evenly to cover.
16. Bake in the preheated oven for 28 to 35 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick halfway between the edge and the center—it should come out with just a few moist crumbs.
17. Once baked, transfer the pan to a wire rack and cool for 1½ hours. This cooling period allows the flavors to settle and the brownies to firm up.
18. Using the parchment overhang, lift the brownies from the pan. Place them on a wire rack and allow them to cool completely for about 1 additional hour.
19. Finally, cut the brownies into squares and serve. If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.

Making Adjustments

Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your Peanut Butter Brownies. Whether you want to adjust flavors or store leftovers, these pointers will guide you.

• Storage: Keep your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to 4 days, but trust me, they won’t last that long!
• Freezing: You can freeze the brownies by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months—just thaw at room temperature for about 45 minutes before enjoying.
• Pairing: These brownies pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Nut Butter Alternatives: If you want to experiment, try replacing peanut butter with almond butter or cashew butter for a different flavor.
• Mix-Ins: Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or even caramel swirls for an extra layer of deliciousness.

Best Served With

When it comes to serving Peanut Butter Brownies, the options are as delightful as the brownies themselves. Here are some ideas to elevate your dessert experience:

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that enhances the rich flavors of the brownies with a creamy contrast.
• Whipped Cream: Top with homemade whipped cream to add a light and airy texture alongside the fudgy brownies.
• Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the brownies for an extra chocolatey treat.
• Fresh Berries: Serve with fresh strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing balance to the sweetness.
• Cold Milk: Enjoy with a glass of cold milk to wash down the decadence and satisfy your cravings.
• Seasonal Treats: During holidays, consider pairing them with festive flavors like peppermint or pumpkin spice.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Peanut Butter Brownies are truly a special treat that brings together the best of both worlds: rich chocolate and smooth peanut butter. They’re a delightful addition to any dessert table and are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings. I encourage you to try making them and savor the joy they’ll bring to your taste buds. Happy baking!

Peanut Butter Brownies

The ultimate sweet craving, these Peanut Butter Brownies combine luscious chocolate and creamy peanut butter for a decadent treat. Perfect for any occasion, they are easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Try them tonight for a delightful dessert experience!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 35 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 24 brownies

Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Mixing Bowl
• Frying Pan
• Chef's Knife
• Whisk
• Large Pot
• Baking Sheet
• Food Processor
• Oven

Ingredients

  

• 1½ cups cups creamy peanut butter
• 6 tablespoons tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups cups powdered sugar
• ⅓ cup cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder
• ½ cup + 2 tablespoons ml boiling water
• 2 ounces ounces unsweetened chocolate
• 4 tablespoons tablespoons unsalted butter
• ½ cup + 2 tablespoons cups vegetable oil
• 2 eggs eggs
• 2 egg yolks egg yolks
• 2 teaspoons teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2½ cups cups granulated sugar
• 1¾ cups cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ teaspoon teaspoon salt
• 1 cup cups semisweet chocolate chips optional

Instructions

 

• Adjust the oven rack to the lowest position and preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Spray a 9×13-inch pan with non-stick cooking spray, then line with parchment paper, leaving about a one-inch overhang on the sides.
• Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling: Melt the creamy peanut butter and unsalted butter together in a medium bowl in the microwave until completely melted and smooth, about 1 to 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Whisk in the vanilla extract, then gradually whisk in the powdered sugar until completely smooth. Set aside while you prepare the brownie batter.
• In a large bowl, whisk the cocoa powder and boiling water together until smooth.
• Add the unsweetened chocolate and whisk until melted.
• Whisk in the melted butter and oil until combined.
• Add the eggs, yolks, and vanilla extract, whisking until smooth and homogeneous.
• Whisk in the granulated sugar until fully incorporated.
• Add the flour and salt, mixing with a rubber spatula until just combined.
• Gently fold in the chocolate chips, if using.
• Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it into an even layer.
• Turn the peanut butter filling out onto a clean work surface and press into a rough rectangle.
• Transfer that filling onto the brownie batter in the pan.
• Pour the remaining batter over the peanut butter filling and spread it evenly.
• Bake until a toothpick inserted comes out with just a few moist crumbs, about 28 to 35 minutes.
• Transfer the pan to a wire rack and cool for 1½ hours.
• Using the parchment overhang, lift the brownies from the pan and cool completely on a wire rack for about 1 additional hour.
• Cut into squares and serve. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for about 4 days.

Notes

• Tip 1: A traditional 9×13-inch metal baking pan is recommended for these brownies. If using glass, allow only 10 minutes of cooling in the pan before transferring.
• Tip 2: Dutch-process cocoa powder provides a richer flavor, but you can use regular cocoa if needed.
• Tip 3: For unsweetened chocolate, Ghiradelli, Baker’s, or Guittard are excellent choices.
• Tip 4: Use processed style peanut butter for best results; natural peanut butter can lead to a different texture.
• Tip 5: Consider adding nuts or other mix-ins to the brownie batter for extra flavor.
• Tip 6: These brownies can be made ahead by preparing the filling a day in advance.
• Tip 7: Brownies can be frozen individually and stored for up to 3 months.

Keyword chocolate dessert recipes, easy brownie recipes, Fudgy Brownies, Peanut Butter Brownies