Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe

If you love the classic combination of chocolate and peanut butter, you are going to adore these Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies! Imagine biting into a rich, fudgy brownie with a luscious, creamy peanut butter center that oozes with every forkful. This recipe is a true celebration of indulgence and nostalgia, wrapped up in a marvellously gooey and satisfying treat. Whether you need a show-stopping dessert for a party, or just a comforting snack to brighten your day, these brownies will quickly become your new favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Preparing the perfect Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies is all about combining a few simple yet high-quality ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in delivering the ideal balance of flavor, texture, and color, ensuring every bite is heavenly.

• Smooth peanut butter: Choose a creamy, non-natural style for the perfect filling consistency and flavor.
• Powdered sugar: Also known as icing sugar, it sweetens the peanut butter layer without any grit.
• Vanilla extract: Adds a lovely depth of flavor to both the peanut butter and brownie batter.
• All-purpose flour: Provides structure to the brownies while keeping them tender.
• Cocoa powder: Gives that unmistakable chocolate richness and dark color.
• Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the other flavors perfectly.
• Unsalted butter: Melts into a silky base that lifts the chocolate flavor.
• Semi-sweet chocolate: Adds smooth richness and complements the peanut butter beautifully.
• Granulated sugar: Balances bittersweet chocolate with the necessary sweetness.
• Eggs and additional egg yolk: Bind ingredients and create that fudgy, dense texture.

How to Make Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat the Oven

Start by setting your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the edges to easily lift the brownies out later. A light grease underneath helps the paper stay put. This simple prep ensures your brownies won’t stick and will come out cleanly once baked.

Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Filling

In a medium bowl, combine smooth peanut butter, powdered sugar, and a pinch of salt. Beat these together until fully blended and creamy. If your powdered sugar has lumps, sifting it first makes the mixture smoother. Pop this filling into the fridge while you work on the brownie batter to let it firm up slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the Brownie Batter

Whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt in a small bowl and set aside. In a separate large bowl, melt butter and chopped chocolate gently — either in the microwave at medium power or in a double boiler. Once melted, let it cool for a few minutes, then whisk in sugar, eggs, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until glossy and smooth. Finally, add the dry ingredients, mixing until no streaks remain but without overworking the batter.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Spread half of the brownie batter in your prepared pan to create an even base layer. Retrieve the peanut butter filling and scoop spoonfuls, flattening them slightly, then arrange them evenly atop the brownie layer. Don’t worry if the peanut butter doesn’t cover every spot — it will meld beautifully during baking. Carefully dollop the remaining brownie batter over the peanut butter, spreading gently without disturbing the filling. Bake for about 32 to 37 minutes until the top is set and a skewer inserted comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies

Garnishes

To elevate your Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies, consider a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate on top. You can also add chopped peanuts for added crunch and texture. These finishing touches not only make your brownies look irresistible but also add complementary flavors and textures.

Side Dishes

These brownies are delicious on their own, but pairing them with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream brings an extra layer of indulgence. Fresh berries or a simple raspberry coulis can introduce a tangy contrast that cuts through the richness, making each bite even more delightful.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut these brownies into small bite-sized squares and serve them on a dessert platter for parties. You can also sandwich a little scoop of ice cream between two slices of brownies for an impressive handheld treat. Wrapping individual brownies in parchment and tying with a ribbon makes for a charming homemade gift.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cooled, store the Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh and fudgy for up to four days, making them perfect for prepping in advance or enjoying over several days without drying out.

Freezing

If you want to keep these brownies longer, wrap them tightly or place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to three months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight to preserve their rich texture and flavor, ready to enjoy whenever a chocolate and peanut butter craving hits.

Reheating

For that warm, gooey brownie experience, gently reheat slices in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds or until just warmed through. This quick heat-up brings back softness and melty chocolate without drying them out.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter for the filling?

It’s best to stick with smooth, commercially processed peanut butter rather than natural varieties since the natural oil separation can affect the filling’s texture and make it less stable during baking.

What kind of chocolate works best for these brownies?

Semi-sweet or 50 to 60 percent dark chocolate is ideal because it balances richness and sweetness, complementing the peanut butter without overpowering it.

How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

Look for a set top that no longer appears wet. Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter. This ensures fudgy yet fully cooked brownies.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking, ensuring a similar texture and structure for your brownies.

Is it possible to make these brownies ahead of time?

Yes! These Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies actually keep their flavor and texture really well when made a day ahead, making them perfect for preparing in advance for gatherings or weekday treats.

Final Thoughts

Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies combine two beloved flavors into one unforgettable dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven or chilled from the fridge, these brownies are guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth and bring a smile to your face. Give this recipe a try, and get ready to make some happy memories around chocolate and peanut butter magic!

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