Gooey Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe: Sweet Treat Triumph

Chocolate and peanut butter swirl together in these decadent peanut butter brownies that promise pure indulgence.

Rich, fudgy layers create a dessert everyone craves with wild enthusiasm.

Each bite delivers an intense chocolate experience punctuated by creamy peanut butter ribbons.

The recipe balances sweetness and depth in ways that spark serious dessert excitement.

Tender and moist brownies emerge from the oven with a glossy, crackly top that hints at the deliciousness within.

These brownies transform an ordinary afternoon into a celebration of flavor.

Prepare to fall in love with a dessert that satisfies every chocolate and peanut butter dream.

Storing and Reheating Peanut Butter Brownies

• Place cooled brownies in an airtight container with wax paper between layers. Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days, maintaining their delicious texture and flavor.
• Wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for maximum 3 months to preserve their rich taste and soft consistency.
• Store in a sealed container at room temperature for 2-3 days, keeping away from direct sunlight and heat sources to prevent texture changes.
• Warm refrigerated brownies in microwave for 10-15 seconds on medium power. For frozen brownies, thaw overnight in refrigerator before gently reheating to maintain their gooey chocolate ganache and soft peanut butter layers.

Good Matches for PB Brownies

• Robust Red Wine Companion: Select a bold, full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot to balance the rich, sweet chocolate and nutty peanut butter flavors. The wine's tannins will cut through the dessert's richness, creating a sophisticated tasting experience.
• Creamy Milk Indulgence: Enjoy a cold glass of whole milk or a classic chocolate milk to enhance the brownie's decadent chocolate and peanut butter notes. The cool, smooth dairy complements the warm, dense texture of the brownies.
• Espresso Flavor Enhancer: Brew a strong shot of espresso or serve a classic cappuccino alongside the brownies. The intense coffee's bitterness will beautifully contrast the sweet, rich dessert, awakening your palate with each bite.
• Craft Beer Pairing: Choose a chocolate stout or porter with nutty undertones. These dark beers mirror the brownie's chocolate profile while adding a complex, malty depth that harmonizes with the peanut butter's richness.

Peanut Butter Brownie Variations

• Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Brownies: Replace box brownie mix with gluten-free brownie mix, ensuring all ingredients are certified gluten-free. Use almond flour or gluten-free flour blend for added texture.
• Vegan Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares: Substitute regular butter with coconut oil, use dairy-free chocolate chips, and replace eggs with flax eggs. Swap powdered sugar with maple syrup or coconut sugar for a plant-based version.
• Low-Sugar Brownie Option: Use sugar-free brownie mix or reduce sugar content by half. Swap powdered sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia. Choose natural peanut butter without added sugars to maintain lower sugar profile.
• Nutty Alternative Brownies: Replace peanut butter with almond butter or cashew butter for different flavor profiles. Consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into brownie batter for extra crunch and nutrition.

FAQs

• Can I use homemade brownie mix instead of boxed mix?

Yes, absolutely! A homemade brownie batter works perfectly. Just ensure the consistency is similar to the boxed mix for best results.

• How do I know if my peanut butter mixture is the right consistency?

The mixture should be smooth and spreadable. If it’s too thick, add a small amount of milk to thin it out. It should easily drop from a spoon.

• What type of peanut butter works best for this recipe?

Creamy, smooth peanut butter is ideal. Avoid natural peanut butters that separate, as they can make the mixture too runny or grainy.

• Can I skip the chocolate ganache topping?

While the ganache adds richness, you can omit it if you prefer. The brownies will still be delicious with just the peanut butter and brownie layers.

What Makes Peanut Butter Brownies Amazing

• Create a decadent dessert with minimal kitchen skills required.
• This recipe welcomes bakers of all levels, from novice to experienced, making it a stress-free treat to prepare.
• Blend the classic richness of chocolate brownies with creamy peanut butter for an irresistible flavor explosion.
• Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, casual get-togethers, or when you need a quick sweet fix that'll impress everyone.
• Leverage boxed brownie mix and simple ingredients to whip up a gourmet-tasting dessert without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients for PB Brownies

• Brownie Mix: A convenient base for creating rich, chocolatey brownies.
• Peanut Butter: Adds creamy, nutty flavor and smooth texture to the recipe.

• Butter, Powdered Sugar, Milk: Combine to create a smooth, spreadable peanut butter mixture.

• Chocolate, Heavy Cream: Work together to create a glossy, rich ganache that adds decadent finishing touch.
• Parchment Paper: Ensures easy removal and clean-up of the brownies.

Steps to Make Peanut Butter Brownies

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Space

Warm up your oven to 350°F.

Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper and give it a light grease coating.

This trick ensures easy removal and prevents sticking.

Step 2: Create the Brownie Base

Mix the brownie batter according to package instructions.

Pour about two-thirds of the batter into the prepared pan.

Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly, creating a smooth foundation for your delicious treat.

Step 3: Whip Up the Peanut Butter Filling

• Softened butter
• Creamy peanut butter
• Powdered sugar

Beat the ingredients until they become smooth and creamy.

If the mixture feels too thick, add a splash of milk to achieve the right consistency.

Drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter mixture over the brownie base, allowing for a rustic, swirled appearance.

Step 4: Layer and Marble the Brownies

Drizzle the remaining brownie batter over the peanut butter layer.

Gently swirl with a spatula to create a beautiful marbled effect.

Don’t worry about perfect coverage – the uneven pattern adds character to your brownies.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into the preheated oven.

Bake for approximately 30 minutes.

Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean.

Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan.

Step 6: Craft the Chocolate Ganache

Heat heavy cream in the microwave until very hot but not boiling.

Pour the cream over chopped chocolate in a bowl.

Cover and let sit for a few minutes, then stir until the mixture becomes smooth and glossy.

Step 7: Finish and Chill

Pour the ganache over the cooled brownies, using a spatula to spread it evenly.

Refrigerate for about an hour to set the ganache.

Once firm, lift the brownies out using the parchment paper, slice into squares, and indulge in your delectable creation.

Tips for Baking PB Brownies

• Microwave butter in 5-second intervals, checking texture to avoid melting completely, ensuring smooth mixing for peanut butter layer.
• Line pan with parchment paper hanging over edges for easy brownie removal and clean cutting without breaking layers.
• Use a toothpick or knife to gently swirl peanut butter and chocolate layers for a beautiful, artistic pattern that looks professionally made.
• Ensure chocolate is finely chopped and cream is hot (not boiling) to create a silky, smooth ganache without lumps or separation.
• Allow brownies to cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating to maintain optimal texture and prevent condensation.

Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe

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4.8 from 38 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Homemade peanut butter brownies deliver rich chocolate magic with creamy nutty swirls of pure indulgence. Luxurious layers of intense flavor promise sweet satisfaction for chocolate and peanut butter enthusiasts who crave delightful comfort in every single bite.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1 box brownie mix
• 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar

Fat and Dairy Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons softened butter
• 3 tablespoons heavy cream

Chocolate Ingredients:

• 4 ounces chopped chocolate (bittersweet or semi-sweet)

Note: Include additional ingredients specified on the brownie mix box for preparation.

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9×9″ pan with parchment paper and apply light grease. Prepare brownie mix according to package instructions, then transfer approximately two-thirds of the batter into the prepared pan, spreading evenly with a spatula.

1. Create peanut butter filling by combining softened butter, peanut butter, and powdered sugar until smooth. If mixture feels dense, incorporate a small amount of milk to achieve spreadable consistency. Gently place peanut butter mixture dollops across the initial brownie layer.

1. Drizzle remaining brownie batter over the peanut butter layer, carefully smoothing with a spatula. Allow some peanut butter to peek through, creating an attractive marbled visual effect.

1. Transfer pan to preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—it should emerge clean. Allow brownies to cool completely within the pan to maintain structural integrity.

1. Prepare chocolate ganache by heating heavy cream in microwave until very hot but not boiling. Pour cream over chopped chocolate in a bowl, cover, and let sit for several minutes. Whisk until achieving a glossy, uniform texture.

1. Carefully pour ganache over cooled brownies, using a spatula to distribute evenly. Refrigerate for approximately one hour to set the ganache. Once firm, lift brownies from pan using parchment paper, slice into individual squares, and serve.

Notes

• Swap regular flour with gluten-free blend for celiac-friendly brownies without compromising texture.
• Reduce sugar content by using monk fruit sweetener or stevia for a lower-calorie dessert option.
• Add a pinch of sea salt on top of ganache to enhance chocolate and peanut butter flavors dramatically.
• Ensure butter and peanut butter are room temperature for smoother, more consistent mixing and better integration of ingredients.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 18 g
• Sodium: 200 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 25 mg