If you are searching for a dessert that beautifully blends rich chocolate with the irresistible creaminess of peanut butter, you have to try this Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe. These brownies are a decadent, fudgy treat featuring a luscious layer of creamy peanut butter nestled right in the middle, creating an exciting contrast of flavors and textures in every bite. Whether you want a crowd-pleaser for a party or a comforting treat to indulge in any day, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this simple yet essential list plays a vital role in crafting the perfect balance of flavor, moisture, and texture that defines these brownies. From the silky peanut butter to the rich cocoa powder, every element contributes to an irresistible bite.
- 1 1/4 cups (336 grams) creamy conventional peanut butter: Makes the smooth and velvety stuffed layer, bringing a nutty richness.
- 10 tablespoons (142 grams) unsalted butter: Adds moisture and a tender crumb to the brownies.
- 4 ounces (113 grams) semisweet baking chocolate, chopped: Brings a deep chocolate flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar: Sweetens and balances the bitter cocoa notes.
- 2 large eggs plus 1 egg yolk: Provide structure and extra richness for fudgy texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with aromatic warmth.
- 1/2 cup (64 grams) all-purpose flour: Gives structure while keeping the brownies tender.
- 1/4 cup (25 grams) unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted: Adds an intense chocolate punch and beautiful color.
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt: Brightens the chocolate and peanut butter flavors.
How to Make Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling
Start by softening the peanut butter in the microwave just until it’s pourable but not too hot. Spread this creamy layer evenly in an 8-inch square pan lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. This frozen peanut butter sheet is the star middle layer that will stay perfectly gooey once baked inside the brownies.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter
While the peanut butter chills, line your pan again. Melt butter and chopped semisweet chocolate together in the microwave, stirring frequently for smoothness, then whisk in sugar to create a glossy base. Add eggs, egg yolk, and vanilla for richness and blend thoroughly. Gently fold in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt until just combined to maintain the batter’s fudgy texture.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Pour half of the chocolate batter into your prepared pan and smooth it out carefully. Lay the frozen peanut butter layer on top, then cover completely with the remaining batter. This sandwiching of peanut butter will give your brownies that amazing surprise center. Bake at 350°F for around 30 minutes, or until the edges are set but the middle retains a slight gooeyness—this is the perfect fudgy stage.
Step 4: Cool and Slice
Once baked, cool your brownies in the pan for 30 minutes, then use the parchment overhang to lift them out. Let them cool another 30 minutes before slicing—this waiting period allows the peanut butter center to set just right and makes slicing cleaner. Your Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies are now ready to be enjoyed!
How to Serve Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top to enhance the sweet and salty contrast. A dusting of powdered sugar, chopped roasted peanuts, or even a drizzle of melted chocolate can elevate the appearance and add extra layers of texture and flavor.
Side Dishes
Serve these brownies with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the rich chocolate and peanut butter. Fresh berries or a vibrant raspberry coulis also cut through the richness wonderfully, providing a refreshing counterpoint.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive dessert platter, cut the brownies into smaller bites and place on a tiered serving tray. You can even make mini versions by cutting the peanut butter layer into small squares and building individual brownie “sandwiches” before baking. Wrapping them in parchment and tying with twine also makes for charming gifts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your brownies keep beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you prefer a firmer, fudgier texture, refrigerate them for up to five days—served chilled, they become wonderfully dense and irresistible.
Freezing
Freeze the brownies by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, which helps prevent freezer burn and flavor loss. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you want a quick treat, thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a few hours.
Reheating
Warm leftover brownies briefly in the microwave to revive the gooey peanut butter center and chocolate edges. Just 10-15 seconds on medium power is usually enough. Pair with a scoop of ice cream for a dessert that feels freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy conventional?
It is best to use creamy conventional peanut butter for this recipe because it has the right consistency to spread and set firmly when frozen. Natural peanut butters are oilier and can make the filling too soft and oily.
How can I tell when the brownies are done?
The edges should be set and slightly pulling away from the pan, while the center remains just a tiny bit soft or gooey. Overbaking will dry them out, so aim for a fudgy texture in the middle.
Is it possible to make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that measures 1:1, but make sure it contains xanthan gum or other binding agents for the best texture.
Why do I freeze the peanut butter layer before baking?
Freezing the peanut butter sheet solidifies it so that when placed between the brownie batter layers, it doesn’t melt away but stays distinct and creamy after baking, giving that perfect stuffed effect.
Can I make these brownies ahead for a party?
Absolutely! You can prepare the peanut butter layer and batter ahead of time. Assemble and freeze the layered batter until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from frozen.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about the way chocolate and peanut butter come together in this Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe. The combination of fudgy brownies with that creamy peanut butter surprise inside is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm hug in dessert form. I can’t wait for you to bake a batch and share that joy with your loved ones. Once you try this recipe, it will surely become a beloved classic on your dessert menu!
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Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
Description
Rich and fudgy peanut butter stuffed brownies featuring a creamy peanut butter core enveloped in a dense, chocolatey brownie. These decadent treats combine the beloved flavors of peanut butter and chocolate in an easy-to-make baked dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Peanut Butter Filling
- 1¼ cups (336 grams) creamy conventional peanut butter (NOT natural)
Brownie Batter
- 10 tablespoons (142 grams) unsalted butter
- 4 ounces (113 grams) semisweet baking chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs plus 1 egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup (64 grams) all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup (25 grams) unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted
- ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
Instructions
- Make the peanut butter filling: Place the peanut butter in a heat-safe bowl and microwave for 20 to 30 seconds until it becomes pourable but not super hot. Line an 8-inch square metal pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. Spread the peanut butter evenly in the pan and freeze for 1 hour until solid. Use the parchment to lift the peanut butter sheet out and keep it frozen while preparing the brownie batter.
- Prepare the brownie batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the same square pan again with parchment paper, leaving an overhang. In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine unsalted butter and chopped semisweet chocolate. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is fully melted and smooth.
- Add sugar and eggs: Stir the granulated sugar into the hot butter-chocolate mixture vigorously until fully combined. Allow the mixture to cool until just barely warm to prevent cooking the eggs. Whisk in the 2 large eggs, 1 egg yolk, and vanilla extract until the batter is very well combined, about 1 minute.
- Incorporate the dry ingredients: Using a rubber spatula, gently fold in the all-purpose flour, sifted cocoa powder, and fine sea salt until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the batter tender.
- Assemble the brownies: Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan and smooth it out evenly. Carefully lift the frozen peanut butter sheet from the freezer and place it over the batter. Pour the remaining batter on top, making sure to cover the peanut butter layer completely.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the brownies are cooked through but still slightly gooey in the center.
- Cool and serve: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 30 minutes to set. Then, use the parchment overhang to lift the brownies from the pan and place on a cooling rack. Let them cool an additional 30 minutes before slicing into 9 servings and serving.
- Storage: Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Chilling enhances their fudgy texture.
Notes
- Use creamy conventional peanut butter for best texture; natural peanut butter may be too runny.
- Ensure the peanut butter is well frozen before layering to avoid mixing into the batter.
- Do not overbake; slight gooiness in the center provides the perfect fudgy consistency.
- Line your pan with parchment paper to easily lift out the entire brownies for neat slicing.
- Chilling the brownies before serving makes them extra fudgy and easier to cut.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
