Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe

If you are a chocolate and peanut butter lover, get ready to fall head over heels with this Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe. These brownies combine a fudgy, deeply chocolatey exterior with a luscious, creamy peanut butter center that creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The surprise peanut butter filling melts in your mouth and adds an irresistible twist to classic brownies, making each bite a delightful adventure. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a decadent treat, this recipe will quickly become your go-to indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating the perfect Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe is all about simple, quality ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role in delivering that rich chocolate depth and creamy peanut butter surprise that makes this dessert unforgettable.

• 1 1/4 cups creamy peanut butter: Choose conventional creamy peanut butter, not natural, for the best texture and flavor that holds during freezing.
• 10 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps create that smooth, fudgy consistency in the brownies.
• 4 ounces semisweet baking chocolate: Chopped for melting, it delivers the chocolate backbone of the brownies.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter and enhances the chocolate’s natural depth.
• 2 large eggs plus 1 egg yolk: Bind the ingredients together and add moisture and richness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic note that brightens the overall flavor.
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Provides just enough structure to keep the brownies tender yet sliceable.
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Sifted for smoothness, it intensifies the chocolate notes without overpowering.
• 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.

How to Make Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling

Start by warming the creamy peanut butter just enough to make it pourable but not hot. Microwave it for about 20 to 30 seconds. Spreading this into an even layer on parchment-lined pans and freezing it creates a firm yet creamy center that won’t melt into the brownie batter. Keeping the peanut butter sheet frozen while you prepare the brownies ensures a perfect sandwich effect in the final bake.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven and Prep the Pan

Before mixing, preheat your oven to 350°F. Line your 8-inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy brownie removal. Lining the pan twice, once for the filling and once for the batter, helps with neat layering and clean edges.

Step 3: Melt Butter and Chocolate

Using a microwave-safe bowl, melt unsalted butter and chopped semisweet chocolate in short bursts, stirring in between to achieve a smooth, glossy sauce. This part is crucial because perfectly melted chocolate gives the brownies their signature fudgy texture and rich flavor.

Step 4: Combine Sugar and Eggs

Whisk the sugar vigorously into the warm butter-chocolate mixture until combined, then allow the mixture to cool slightly so the eggs won’t scramble. Add the eggs, extra yolk, and vanilla extract, whisking thoroughly to create a silky smooth batter that’s ready for the dry ingredients.

Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients

Gently fold in the sifted cocoa powder, flour, and fine sea salt with a rubber spatula. Mix until just combined to keep the texture tender and avoid overworking the batter, which can make brownies tough instead of fudgy.

Step 6: Assemble the Brownies

Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan and smooth it out evenly. Carefully lay your frozen peanut butter sheet over this base, then cover it completely with the remaining batter. This layering ensures that each slice delivers a generous peanut butter surprise tucked inside the rich chocolate.

Step 7: Bake and Cool

Bake the brownies for about 30 minutes, aiming for a slightly gooey center to maximize fudginess. After baking, allow them to cool in the pan for 30 minutes, then remove using the parchment overhang and cool for another 30 minutes before slicing. Patience here pays off with the perfect texture and clean slices.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of melted chocolate elevates the appearance without overpowering the flavors. You can also sprinkle flaky sea salt on top to highlight the balance between sweet and savory in the brownies.

Side Dishes

Pair these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert experience. Fresh berries also make a refreshing contrast to the richness and add a pop of color to your dessert plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the brownies warm, cut into small squares on a rustic wooden board for a cozy gathering. For parties, try stacking individual brownies with thin layers of peanut butter frosting between for mini brownie sandwiches that wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Chilling intensifies the fudgy texture and makes slicing neater, so feel free to serve them slightly cold for a different but equally delicious experience.

Freezing

If you want to save these treats for later, wrap brownies tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil or an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight at room temperature when ready to enjoy, maintaining that perfect peanut butter and chocolate harmony.

Reheating

For a warm, gooey bite, reheat brownies in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds. This softens the peanut butter center beautifully and revives the fudgy exterior, making the brownies taste freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter instead of conventional creamy?

Natural peanut butter tends to be oilier and less stable, so it may not solidify properly when frozen, affecting the structure of your peanut butter center. For this Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe, conventional creamy peanut butter works best to hold its shape and texture.

What if I don’t have unsweetened cocoa powder?

You can substitute with Dutch-processed cocoa powder, but remember it is less acidic and has a smoother, milder flavor, which might change the final brownie taste slightly. Avoid sweetened cocoa to maintain balance in the recipe.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes, you can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup like regular flour. Make sure your blend contains xanthan gum or a similar binder to maintain the brownies’ texture.

Why is the peanut butter filling frozen before adding to the batter?

Freezing the peanut butter layer ensures it stays solid during the batter pouring and baking, creating a distinct filling rather than mixing into the brownie. This step is key to getting that “stuffed” surprise effect.

How do I know when the brownies are done?

Look for edges that are set and pulling away slightly from the pan, with the center still a little soft and gooey when you gently shake the pan. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter to keep the fudgy texture perfect.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe, you’ll see why it’s such a beloved treat. The luscious peanut butter center combined with intensely chocolatey, fudgy brownies makes every bite feel like a special occasion. I can’t wait for you to bake these and share the joy (or keep them all to yourself!). Happy baking and even happier indulging!

Print