Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe
If your idea of dessert heaven is the blissful marriage of rich chocolate and velvety peanut butter, then these Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies are about to become your new obsession. Imagine biting through a shiny, crackly top to discover a fudgy brownie and a ribbon of creamy peanut butter tucked inside—each layer perfectly balanced in flavor and texture. Whether you’re baking for a celebration, an after-dinner treat, or just because you crave pure comfort, this recipe transforms simple pantry staples into a showstopping dessert that stirs up nostalgia and delight with every gooey bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather your ingredients before you begin: it’s a short list, but every item serves a crucial role in delivering authentic flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. The result is irresistible, especially when the chocolatey brownie and peanut butter swirl together in each forkful.
- Unsalted butter: Creates a tender, fudgy base and enhances the richness of the brownies.
- Semisweet chocolate chips: Give the brownies their deep chocolate flavor and glossy finish.
- Granulated sugar: Adds structure and that classic sweetness that sets off the chocolate.
- Brown sugar: Contributes moisture and a subtle caramel undertone for extra depth.
- Large eggs: Bind the batter together and deliver lift and chew in the finished brownies.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors and adds warm, aromatic notes to both the batter and filling.
- All-purpose flour: Provides just the right amount of structure to keep these brownies dense and fudgy.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Intensifies the chocolatey flavor and deepens the color.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and accentuates all the chocolate and peanut butter flavors.
- Creamy peanut butter: The star of the filling, velvety and perfectly salty-sweet.
- Powdered sugar: Blends into the peanut butter for a creamy, luscious layer.
How to Make Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Set the Scene
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This little bit of effort makes all the difference when it comes time to lift out your Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies later—no sticking, no mess, just clean edges and easy slicing. A quick spritz or light brush of grease keeps everything in place.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Butter
In a medium saucepan over low heat, gently melt the butter and chocolate chips together. Stir until you have a gloriously smooth, shiny mixture. This step sets the stage for ultra-rich brownies and brings out those intense chocolate notes—all while filling your kitchen with the most tempting aroma.
Step 3: Whisk in the Sweetness and Eggs
Lift the saucepan off the heat and stir in both the granulated and brown sugars. The brown sugar adds that subtle hint of caramel and moistness that sets these brownies apart. Mixing the eggs and vanilla in at this stage helps the batter come together silky-smooth, with a touch of warmth from the vanilla for depth and complexity.
Step 4: Add the Dry Ingredients
Sift in the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt. Gently fold the mixture, making sure to stop as soon as you see no more streaks of dry ingredients. This cautious approach is the secret to brownies that are dense, moist, and never cakey.
Step 5: Make the Peanut Butter Filling
Grab a separate bowl and whip together the creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. The powdered sugar gives the filling its dreamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture, while the vanilla rounds out the flavor into a decadent, dessert-worthy treat.
Step 6: Assemble the Layers
Pour half of your brownie batter into the lined pan, smoothing it into the corners. Next, drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter mixture on top. Gently spread it into an even layer—don’t worry if it’s not pristine, a little swirl only adds to the appeal. Top with the remaining brownie batter, using a spatula to smooth out the surface. It’s okay if some peanut butter peeks through!
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Slide your pan into the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. Keep an eye on them—a toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter. If you’re after an extra-gooey center, stick to the lower end of the range. Let your Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies cool completely in the pan for the cleanest slices and the dreamiest texture.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies
Garnishes
Take your Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies up a notch with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of melted chocolate, or even a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. Each finishing touch heightens the flavors and makes every bite feel extra special—making these brownies look bakery-worthy with minimal effort.
Side Dishes
Pair your brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate hot-and-cold combination, or serve alongside fresh strawberries or raspberries to add a tart, juicy contrast that balances the richness. For something truly decadent, pour a cold glass of milk or a robust coffee to complement the fudgy peanut butter core.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice your Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies into fun shapes using cookie cutters for parties, or stack them up as a layered dessert with whipped cream and more peanut butter drizzle. You can also wrap individual squares in parchment paper and tie them up with string for adorable bake-sale or giftable treats that make anyone’s day brighter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any extra Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days—they’ll retain their perfect fudgy center without drying out. If you prefer, refrigerate them for a week; a quick microwave zap reinvigorates the gooey layers.
Freezing
If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), individually wrap brownies in plastic wrap and then foil, then keep them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay delicious for up to three months—ideal for emergency dessert cravings or last-minute visitors.
Reheating
Bring frozen brownies to room temperature before indulging, or warm gently in the microwave for about 15–20 seconds to reset that just-baked warmth and get the peanut butter center extra gooey. If you want a little crunch, pop them in a 300°F oven for five minutes.
FAQs
Can I double the recipe for a 9×13-inch pan?
Absolutely! Just double all the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. You might need to add 5–10 minutes to the baking time; keep a watchful eye and use the toothpick test for perfect results.
Can I use natural peanut butter for the filling?
Natural peanut butter can work, but keep in mind it can be runnier and less sweet than traditional creamy peanut butter. If you go this route, consider adding an extra spoonful of powdered sugar to help thicken the filling and boost the sweetness.
How do I get clean, sharp brownie slices?
Patience is key! Let your Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies cool completely before slicing, and use a sharp knife wiped clean after each cut. For ultra-clean edges, chill the brownies briefly before slicing.
What happens if I overmix the batter?
Overmixing can lead to tough brownies. Stir just until your dry ingredients are incorporated—this ensures a fudgy, tender crumb that perfectly complements the creamy peanut butter filling.
Can I add extra chocolate or nuts?
Absolutely! Toss in a handful of chocolate chips or swirl in some chopped toasted peanuts for extra texture and flavor. Just fold any add-ins gently before layering your batter and peanut butter.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to wow a crowd or simply treat yourself, don’t wait another day to bake up a batch of Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies. They’re everything you love about brownies and peanut butter, brought together in one irresistible, easy-to-make treat. I can’t wait for you to fall in love with this recipe as much as I have!
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Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate decadence with these Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies. Rich, fudgy brownies are filled with a creamy peanut butter center for a delightful dessert that will satisfy all your chocolate cravings.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Peanut Butter Filling:
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Melt butter and chocolate: In a saucepan, melt butter and chocolate chips over low heat until smooth.
- Mix wet ingredients: Remove from heat and stir in granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla until combined.
- Add dry ingredients: Sift in flour, cocoa powder, and salt, stirring until no streaks remain.
- Prepare peanut butter filling: In a separate bowl, mix peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Layer and bake: Spread half the brownie batter in the pan, add spoonfuls of peanut butter mixture, top with remaining batter, and bake for 25–30 minutes.
- Cool and serve: Allow to cool completely before slicing for best results.
Notes
- For a gooier center, bake on the lower end of the time range.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
