Description
Rich chocolate brownies hiding creamy peanut butter centers become an irresistible dessert sensation. Chocolate and peanut butter lovers will savor each decadent bite of this indulgent sweet treat that promises pure bliss.
Ingredients
Scale
Chocolate Brownie Base:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
Peanut Butter Filling:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Topping/Garnish:
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp chopped peanuts
- 1 tbsp sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a square baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring edges are fully covered for easy removal.
- Melt butter in a large mixing bowl, then whisk in granulated and brown sugars until smooth and glossy.
- Incorporate eggs and vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mixture, stirring until fully integrated and slightly frothy.
- Sift together flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder, then gently fold into the wet ingredients until a rich, dark batter forms without overmixing.
- For the peanut butter filling, cream together peanut butter, powdered sugar, softened butter, and vanilla extract until achieving a smooth, moldable consistency.
- Pour half the brownie batter into the prepared pan, creating an even base layer.
- Dollop the peanut butter filling strategically across the brownie base, leaving small gaps between each dollop.
- Carefully spread the remaining brownie batter over the peanut butter filling, ensuring complete coverage.
- Use a knife to create subtle swirling patterns, allowing hints of peanut butter to peek through.
- Sprinkle chocolate chips and chopped peanuts across the surface for additional texture and visual appeal.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with minimal moist crumbs.
- Allow brownies to cool completely in the pan before lifting out using parchment paper edges.
- Optional: Finish with a light dusting of sea salt to enhance the sweet-savory flavor profile.
- Slice into square portions and serve at room temperature for optimal texture and taste.
Notes
- Prevent Dry Brownies by carefully monitoring baking time and avoiding overmixing the batter, which can lead to tough, dense textures.
- Create Gluten-Free Version by substituting all-purpose flour with almond flour or a certified gluten-free baking blend for those with dietary restrictions.
- Enhance Flavor Complexity by using dark cocoa powder or adding a splash of espresso to intensify the chocolate’s depth and richness.
- Control Sweetness Levels by reducing sugar quantities or using alternative sweeteners like monk fruit or stevia for a more balanced dessert experience.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 9
- Calories: 366
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg