Peanut butter stuffed brownies are a delightful treat that brings together two beloved flavors: rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter. The combination creates a dessert that feels cozy and indulgent without being overwhelming. They’re perfect for family gatherings, weekend treats, or any time you need a sweet pick-me-up. Plus, they are quick and easy to make, which makes them an excellent choice for beginner bakers.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This peanut butter stuffed brownie recipe is all about simplicity and taste. With everyday ingredients, you won’t need to make a special trip to the store. The prep time is minimal, so you can whip these up when a sweet craving strikes. They’re soft, fudgy, and have bursts of peanut butter in every bite. Everyone in the family will love them!

How to Make Brownies

Making these brownies is straightforward and fun. You’ll start by mixing the wet ingredients and then combine them with the dry ones. Just a few simple steps will bring your delicious treat together. Once baked, let them cool down before serving. It’s that simple!

What You Need

1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, melted
4 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter

Step-by-Step

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and melted butter.
Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and stir until combined.
Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt; mix until just combined.
Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
Drop spoonfuls of peanut butter over the brownie layer and gently swirl it with a knife.
Pour the remaining brownie batter on top and spread evenly.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Let cool before slicing into squares and serving.

How to Serve Brownies

These brownies are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them even more. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a decadent dessert. For a cozy treat, drizzle some chocolate sauce over them. They also pair perfectly with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee.

How to Store Brownies

To keep these brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds until warm, or enjoy them straight from the fridge for a chewy treat.

Recipe Tips

Allow the brownies to cool completely before slicing for cleaner cuts.
For a more intense peanut butter flavor, add some chopped peanuts to the brownie layer.
Feel free to use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
If you prefer a lighter brownie, you can replace half of the butter with applesauce.
Remember to check the brownies with a toothpick; they should have a few moist crumbs when done.

Variations & Swaps

Add chocolate chips to the brownie batter for extra chocolatey goodness.
Swap out the creamy peanut butter for almond or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor.
For a festive touch, mix in some crushed peppermint candies during the holiday season.
Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
Try adding a pinch of sea salt on top before baking for a delicious salty-sweet contrast.

FAQs

Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the brownies a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They actually taste better after sitting for a day when the flavors have melded.

Can I freeze these brownies?
Absolutely! Let the brownies cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

How do I reheat the brownies?
You can reheat them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or place them in a 350°F oven for a few minutes until warm. Enjoying them warm enhances the delicious peanut butter flavor!

What can I substitute for eggs?
If you’re looking for an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce for each egg. This keeps the brownies moist and helps maintain the texture.

What should I avoid when making these brownies?
Make sure not to overmix the batter after adding the dry ingredients. This can make the brownies tough instead of soft and fudgy. Also, keep an eye on the baking time, as overbaking will dry them out.