If you have a soft spot for rich, fudgy chocolate treats and the irresistible creaminess of peanut butter, then this Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe is about to become your new obsession. These brownies perfectly balance deep chocolate flavor with a luscious peanut butter center that melts in your mouth with every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, this recipe is straightforward enough to whip up anytime, yet it feels like a decadent bakery indulgence. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll keep coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, quality ingredients is the first step to nailing this Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role: the butter and chocolate chips bring in a silky richness, sugars provide the perfect sweetness and moisture, while peanut butter adds that creamy, nutty surprise in the center.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Melts smoothly to enrich the batter and give a tender crumb.
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Adds intense, melty chocolate flavor that’s key for fudginess.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps with the classic chewy brownie texture.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Infuses warmth and moisture with a hint of caramel.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add structure to the brownies.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Elevates the chocolate and peanut butter flavors beautifully.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Provides just enough body without weighing the brownies down.
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Deepens the chocolate intensity and color.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances chocolate notes.
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter: Creates the luscious, creamy stuffed layer you’ll fall in love with.
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar: Sweetens and smooths the peanut butter center perfectly.
How to Make Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Melt Chocolate
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave some overhang for easy brownie removal later. Next, melt the butter and chocolate chips together in a microwave-safe bowl using 30-second intervals, stirring after each session until completely smooth and glossy. Let it cool just a bit so the eggs don’t cook when you add them.
Step 2: Combine Sugars and Eggs
Whisk the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract into the chocolate mixture until the surface shines and the mixture is homogeneous. This step is crucial for achieving that luscious, fudgy texture your Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe promises.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
Gently fold in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt just until you no longer see streaks of flour. Overmixing here can lead to cakier brownies, so stop when it’s just combined to keep everything tender and gooey.
Step 4: Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture
In a small bowl, stir together the peanut butter and powdered sugar until smooth. This blend will create that dreamy stuffed layer that contrasts perfectly with the rich chocolate.
Step 5: Layer the Batter and Peanut Butter
Pour half of the brownie batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Then drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter mixture over this first layer and gently spread it into an even layer. Finally, cover everything with the remaining brownie batter and smooth the top.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake for approximately 28 to 32 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the center is just set and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs—this means those brownies will stay delectably fudgy. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing to keep the layers intact.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
Top your brownies with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a drizzle of melted chocolate for a little extra shine and a flavor boost. Chopped roasted peanuts can add a delightful crunch that complements the soft peanut butter core.
Side Dishes
Serve these brownies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to highlight the dessert’s gooey richness. Fresh berries such as raspberries also work beautifully to cut through the sweetness and add a pop of color.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist on the classic serving method, try cutting the brownies into bite-sized squares and stacking them on a dessert platter, alternating with layers of peanut butter cups or chocolate truffles. You could even use small cookie cutters to create mini heart-shaped brownies for parties or gifts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, keep your Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain their soft texture. Avoid refrigerating unless you prefer a denser, fudgier bite.
Freezing
You can freeze these brownies for up to two months by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw at room temperature or gently warm them for that freshly baked feel.
Reheating
To reheat, pop individual brownie pieces into the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This will revive their gooey interior and make the peanut butter center wonderfully melty once more.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add an extra layer of texture to the filling, which some folks really enjoy. Just keep in mind the peanut butter mixture might be a bit chunkier to spread evenly.
What if I don’t have parchment paper?
If you don’t have parchment paper, grease your baking pan generously with butter or non-stick spray. You can also lightly flour the pan to prevent sticking, but parchment always makes for easier cleanup and better results.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking. Just make sure the blend you use includes a binding agent to maintain that classic brownie texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
With some adjustments, yes. Use vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate chips, replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg), and choose a vegan peanut butter option. The baking time and texture might vary slightly.
How do I get that swirl effect on top of the brownies?
For a gorgeous swirl, once you pour the final layer of brownie batter, dollop extra peanut butter mixture on top and use a butter knife to lightly drag through the batter before baking. This creates a marbled look that’s just as tasty as it is beautiful.
Final Thoughts
I promise, this Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe will quickly become a standout in your dessert repertoire. Combining simple ingredients with such an unforgettable flavor twist is pure magic. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to bake brownies that bring smiles with every bite. You deserve an indulgence this delightful!
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Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in rich, fudgy Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies featuring a luscious layer of creamy peanut butter nestled between two layers of decadent chocolate brownie batter. Perfectly baked to a moist, chewy texture with a subtle swirl of peanut butter, these brownies offer the ultimate chocolaty and nutty dessert experience.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Peanut Butter Filling
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring there is an overhang for easy removal.
- Melt Butter and Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter and semi-sweet chocolate chips. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until fully melted and smooth. Allow to cool slightly to avoid cooking the eggs in the next step.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: Whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract into the melted chocolate mixture until glossy and well combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gently stir in the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt just until the batter is uniform and no streaks remain. Do not overmix.
- Prepare Peanut Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, blend the creamy peanut butter and powdered sugar until smooth and well combined.
- Layer the Brownies: Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading evenly. Drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter mixture over the batter and gently spread it into a thin, even layer. Pour and spread the remaining brownie batter over the top, covering the peanut butter layer completely.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 28 to 32 minutes, or until the center is just set. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs attached.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing into 16 squares. This ensures clean cuts and the filling sets properly.
Notes
- For a decorative swirl effect, gently drag a butter knife through the top layer of batter before baking to create a marbled peanut butter pattern.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate brownies for a fudgier texture and to extend freshness.
- Use parchment paper with an overhang for easy removal of the entire brownie block from the pan.
