Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe

“`html

If you have a serious sweet tooth and a love for that perfect combo of chocolate and peanut butter, you are in for a real treat with this Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe. Imagine biting into a fudgy, rich brownie that hides a luscious, creamy peanut butter center—each forkful offering the ultimate comfort and indulgence. This recipe is a guaranteed showstopper for family gatherings, cozy nights in, or anytime you crave a dessert that feels both nostalgic and delightfully decadent.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started on these brownies is a breeze because the ingredients are simple, yet each plays a crucial role in building the perfect texture, flavor, and richness. From buttery sweetness to that deep cocoa hit, all brought together by a dreamy peanut butter surprise.

• 1 cup unsalted butter: Provides richness and moisture with a silky smooth texture to your brownies.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a slight crunch on top.
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed: Brings a subtle molasses flavor and chewiness to balance the chocolate.
• 4 large eggs: The key to structure and that dense, fudgy brownie body.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors, especially the chocolate and peanut butter.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: The base that holds everything together with just the right amount of tenderness.
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: The star ingredient delivering that deep, bitter-sweet chocolate punch.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Adds a touch of lift so your brownies don’t turn out too dense.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the chocolate flavor.
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter: The heart of the recipe, forming a smooth, velvety filling that contrasts with the chocolate.
• ½ cup powdered sugar (for the filling): Sweetens the peanut butter filling to just the right degree.
• ½ cup chocolate chips (optional, for topping): An extra chocolatey finish that melts into little pockets of joy on top.

How to Make Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper to ensure your brownies come out clean and easy to slice later on. This small prep step makes a huge difference for your final presentation.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

Melt 1 cup of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. Once melted, remove it from heat and let it cool slightly. The butter’s warmth will help dissolve the sugars and eventually create that irresistible fudginess.

Step 3: Mix Sugars and Butter

In a large bowl, combine the granulated and brown sugars. Pour in the slightly cooled melted butter and mix thoroughly until everything is well incorporated and glossy. This mixture is the sweet foundation of your brownies.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully mixed before adding the next—this helps the batter become smooth and uniform. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract, which will add a subtle aromatic note to your brownies.

Step 5: Sift and Blend Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Sifting prevents lumps and helps distribute the leavening evenly. Gradually fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture—it’s best to combine until just mixed to avoid tough brownies.

Step 6: Make the Peanut Butter Filling

In another bowl, blend the creamy peanut butter with powdered sugar until smooth and spreadable. This mixture will be your delicious surprise inside the brownies, adding richness and sweetness.

Step 7: Layer the Brownie Batter

Pour half of your chocolate brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Then add dollops of the peanut butter filling across the surface, spreading gently but leaving some texture. Finally, spoon the remaining brownie batter over the peanut butter layer, carefully smoothing it to cover without mixing the layers.

Step 8: Add Optional Chocolate Chips

If you’re all about that extra chocolate, sprinkle chocolate chips over the top of your batter layer. As they bake, these melt slightly and add a delightful texture contrast and bursts of flavor.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center—it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. This ensures your brownies are perfectly fudgy and not dry.

Step 10: Cooling and Cutting

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling period helps the peanut butter filling set and makes cutting cleaner and easier. Once cooled, slice into squares and get ready to enjoy every decadent bite of your Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate can elevate your brownies’ presentation. For a more indulgent touch, add a sprinkle of chopped peanuts or a dollop of whipped cream on top—each addition adds delightful textures and flavors.

Side Dishes

Serve these brownies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or some fresh berries to lighten the richness and add a fresh burst. A hot cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk pairs beautifully, balancing the decadence with smooth, comforting sips.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut your brownies into mini squares for bite-sized dessert trays or layer pieces in a decadent parfait glass with whipped cream and chocolate shavings for a show-stopping dessert centerpiece. Wrapping individual brownies in parchment paper tied with twine also makes sweet gifts for friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe treats can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for a week. This ensures they stay moist and flavorful, perfect for spontaneous cravings.

Freezing

You can freeze these brownies either as whole slabs or pre-cut squares. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container or freezer bag. Frozen brownies keep well for up to 3 months without sacrificing taste or texture.

Reheating

To revive your brownies from the fridge or freezer, warm them slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or until soft and gooey again, careful not to overheat. Alternatively, a quick zap in a preheated oven can restore that freshly baked magic.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy peanut butter?

Natural peanut butter can be used, but it might require a bit more powdered sugar to sweeten and thicken the filling, as it tends to be less creamy and more oily. Also, freeze-dried or no-stir options work best for a smooth filling.

What if I don’t have unsweetened cocoa powder?

You can substitute with Dutch-processed cocoa powder, which has a milder flavor and darker color, though it may affect the final texture slightly. If you only have sweetened cocoa, reduce the sugar in the recipe to balance the sweetness.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend of equal measure. Make sure it contains xanthan gum or another binder to maintain the chewy, fudgy texture.

Is there a way to make the peanut butter filling less sweet?

You can reduce the powdered sugar in the peanut butter mixture to taste, but keep in mind that this could slightly affect the consistency. Adding a pinch of salt can help balance flavors without extra sweetness.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Definitely! Chopped peanuts or walnuts mixed into the batter or sprinkled on top add delightful crunch and complement the peanut butter flavor perfectly. Just be mindful of the texture balance, so the brownies stay moist and fudgy.

Final Thoughts

Whipping up this Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe is like wrapping yourself in a warm, chocolatey hug with a surprise peanut butter soul. It’s a dessert that feels special, yet is so easy to make that it quickly becomes a go-to for every sweet craving. I truly encourage you to give this recipe a try—you’ll be amazed at how these brownies can turn any moment into a joyful celebration of flavors. Happy baking!

“`

Print