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Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe

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Deliciously rich and fudgy peanut butter brownies combining the intense flavor of semisweet chocolate with creamy peanut butter swirls for an indulgent treat.

  • Total Time: 50-55 minutes
  • Yield: 16 servings

Ingredients

Brownie Batter

  • 8 Tablespoons unsalted butter (cut into 8 pieces)
  • 4 oz semisweet chocolate bar (chopped)
  • ½ cup natural cocoa powder
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
  • ⅔ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon table salt
  • ½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

Peanut Butter Topping

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9 inch (22×22 cm) baking pan with parchment paper. Set aside to use later.
  2. Melt Butter and Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter and chopped semisweet chocolate. Heat in the microwave for 30 seconds, stir well, then continue heating in 20-second increments, stirring until completely melted and smooth.
  3. Add Cocoa Powder: Immediately add the natural cocoa powder to the melted chocolate mixture and whisk until thoroughly combined.
  4. Beat Sugar, Eggs, and Vanilla: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla bean paste vigorously until the mixture lightens in color and becomes pale yellow, about 1 minute at medium/high speed.
  5. Combine Chocolate and Egg Mixtures: Drizzle the chocolate mixture into the egg mixture, stirring continuously until fully incorporated and the batter is uniform.
  6. Add Flour and Salt: Sift the all-purpose flour and salt over the batter, then stir until the flour is fully absorbed and the batter is smooth and well combined.
  7. Fold in Chocolate Chips (Optional): If using mini chocolate chips, gently fold them into the batter ensuring even distribution.
  8. Reserve Peanut Butter for Topping: Measure out about 2 tablespoons of the peanut butter and set it aside to use as the top swirl.
  9. Layer Brownie Batter and Peanut Butter: Spread half of the brownie batter evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Dollop the majority of the remaining peanut butter over the batter and use the back of a spoon to smooth it close to the edges, leaving about ¼ to ½ inch border.
  10. Add Remaining Batter and Swirl Peanut Butter: Gently spoon the rest of the brownie batter over the peanut butter layer, spreading it so that it completely covers the peanut butter. Dollop the reserved 2 tablespoons of peanut butter over the top, then use a knife to gently swirl the peanut butter into the brownie batter for a marbled effect.
  11. Bake the Brownies: Place the pan on the center rack of the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
  12. Cool Completely Before Serving: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting and serving. Warm brownies will be messy to slice due to their fudgy texture.

Notes

  • You can substitute vanilla bean paste with vanilla extract if needed.
  • Using parchment paper for lining the pan ensures easy removal of brownies.
  • Letting brownies cool completely helps achieve clean cuts and allows flavors to meld.
  • Mini chocolate chips are optional but add extra chocolate bursts.
  • Swirling peanut butter on top gives a beautiful marbled look and a rich peanut flavor.
  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American