Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies

If you’re looking for a dessert that brings together the rich flavors of chocolate and the creamy goodness of peanut butter, then these Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies are just what you need! This recipe holds a special place in my heart. It’s not just about indulging your sweet tooth; it’s about creating memories with loved ones. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a special occasion, or simply treating yourself after a long day, these brownies are sure to impress.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to whip up. You’ll find that even on the busiest weeknights, you can create something truly special without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why these Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies are a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of rich chocolate brownies and creamy peanut butter filling creates an irresistible treat.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll be enjoying these brownies in no time!
• Perfect for Sharing: These brownies serve 12, making them ideal for family gatherings or bringing along to parties.
• Make Ahead Option: They store well in an airtight container, so you can prepare them ahead of time for upcoming events.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Involve the little ones in mixing and spreading the peanut butter; they’ll love helping out in the kitchen!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleased to know that this recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you need to make your delicious Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies:

For the Peanut Butter Filling

• 3/4 cup smooth peanut butter (not natural)
• 1 cup powdered sugar (110 grams)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Brownie Batter

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (63 grams)
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder (22 grams)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (112 grams)
• 6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate (180 grams)
• 1 cup granulated sugar (200 grams)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 large egg yolk

Variations

One of the best parts about these Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies is how flexible they are! Feel free to get creative with these tasty variations:

• Add Nuts: Chopped peanuts or walnuts can add a delightful crunch to your brownies.
• Swirl in Jam: A layer of raspberry or strawberry jam can add a fruity twist that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
• Use Different Chocolate: Swap semi-sweet chocolate for milk or dark chocolate depending on your preference.
• Make It Vegan: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use dairy-free chocolate and nut butter for a plant-based version.

How to Make Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat the oven to 350F (180C). This step is essential as it ensures your brownies bake evenly throughout. While it heats up, line an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) pan with parchment paper. Letting some parchment hang over the edges makes it easier to lift out your brownies later!

Step 2: Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine smooth peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and creamy. This filling adds a delightful surprise in every bite!

Step 3: Melt Chocolate and Butter

In a saucepan over low heat, melt together the semi-sweet chocolate and unsalted butter until smooth. Stirring constantly prevents burning and helps achieve that luscious brownie texture we all love.

Step 4: Mix Your Batter

Remove from heat and stir in granulated sugar until combined. Next, mix in the eggs and egg yolk one at a time followed by vanilla extract. Finally, gently fold in flour, cocoa powder, and salt until just combined—don’t overmix!

Step 5: Assemble Your Brownies

Pour half of the brownie batter into your prepared pan. Spread it evenly before dolloping spoonfuls of peanut butter filling on top. Gently swirl remaining brownie batter over this layer.

Step 6: Bake!

Bake for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs. Let cool completely before lifting from the pan using those parchment edges—trust me; it’s worth waiting for!

Now go ahead and enjoy every fudgy bite of these amazing Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies!

Pro Tips for Making Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies

Baking is all about the little details, and these tips will ensure your peanut butter stuffed brownies turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your eggs and butter to room temperature helps them mix more easily, creating a smoother batter and ensuring that your brownies rise beautifully.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined helps keep the brownies fudgy. Overmixing can lead to a tougher texture, which we definitely want to avoid here!
• Check for doneness with a toothpick: Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies; it should come out with a few moist crumbs. This ensures they’re fudgy and not overbaked.
• Let them cool completely before slicing: Patience is key! Allowing the brownies to cool in the pan will make cutting them easier and help maintain their luscious filling.
• Experiment with different nut butters: If you’re feeling adventurous, try substituting other nut butters like almond or cashew for a unique twist on this classic treat!

How to Serve Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies

These brownies are not only delicious but also visually appealing. Here are some delightful ways to present them!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a lovely touch of elegance and sweetness that complements the rich flavors.
• Chocolate drizzle: Melt some semi-sweet chocolate and drizzle it over the brownies for an extra chocolatey kick that’s sure to impress.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy vanilla flavor contrasts beautifully with the rich, fudgy brownies, creating a perfect balance of warm and cold.
• Fresh berries: A handful of raspberries or strawberries provides a refreshing tartness that cuts through the richness of the brownies.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, whip up some coconut cream as a light topping that pairs wonderfully with peanut butter and chocolate.
• Strong coffee or espresso: A small cup of coffee enhances the flavors of chocolate while providing a nice pick-me-up alongside your dessert.

With these serving suggestions, your peanut butter stuffed brownies will be an absolute hit at any gathering! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and store them for later indulgence. Here’s how to keep them fresh and tasty.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the brownies to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate them where they will last up to a week.

Freezing

• Cut brownies into individual squares before freezing for easy portions.
• Wrap each brownie tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy warm brownies, remove from the fridge or freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave each square for about 10-15 seconds until warmed through.
• For frozen brownies, you may need to increase the microwaving time slightly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about these delicious treats!

Can I make Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure your other ingredients are also gluten-free.

What can I use instead of eggs in Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies?

You can use flax eggs or applesauce as an egg replacement. For one egg, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit until it thickens.

How do I know when my Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies are done baking?

The brownies are done when the edges look set, but the center still appears slightly soft. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs attached, not wet batter.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies as much as I do! They’re perfect for sharing with friends or savoring all by yourself. The combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter is simply irresistible. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your delicious results!