If you’re a fan of gooey chocolate and rich peanut butter, you’re in for an unforgettable treat with these Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies. Imagine a fudgy brownie layered with creamy, sweetened peanut butter and finished off with a scattering of melty chocolate chips — this classic dessert duo takes brownies to the next level! Whether you’re baking for a party, a casual get-together, or just treating yourself, these decadent squares are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, and they’ll have everyone asking for seconds (and the recipe!).
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe brings a special touch: simple, familiar pantry staples come together to create that rich chocolate base and the dreamy peanut butter filling. Let’s take a closer look at what makes Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies so spectacular.
- Unsalted Butter: Melted butter forms the rich, tender base and amps up the fudgy texture of your brownies.
- Granulated Sugar: Delivers the right level of sweetness and helps achieve that classic crackly brownie top.
- Large Eggs: Bind everything together and add moisture for an irresistibly chewy bite.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla rounds out the chocolate and peanut butter flavors beautifully.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Provides that deep, intense chocolate taste that makes brownies so addictive.
- All-Purpose Flour: Just enough flour keeps the brownies dense and fudgy rather than cakey.
- Salt: Enhances all the sweet flavors and keeps the richness in balance.
- Baking Powder: A touch of lift ensures these don’t become too dense or heavy.
- Creamy Peanut Butter: The star of the show — choose your favorite brand for the silkier, creamier filling layer.
- Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the peanut butter layer and keeps the texture smooth and spreadable.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Melt into pockets of chocolatey goodness on top for extra indulgence.
How to Make Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang for easy brownie removal. Gather and measure out your ingredients so everything is on hand — this makes the process seamless and keeps the fun in baking!
Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter
In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter gently. Once melted, remove it from the heat and immediately stir in the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until your mixture is silky and smooth, which creates that glossy brownie batter magic. Next, fold in the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder, just until you no longer see dry streaks. Over-mixing can lead to cakey brownies, so keep it gentle and stop as soon as everything comes together.
Step 3: Layer the Brownie and Peanut Butter
Pour half of your brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. In a separate bowl, stir together the creamy peanut butter and powdered sugar until you have a smooth, velvety mixture. Drop big spoonfuls of the peanut butter mixture over the brownie layer, then gently spread to cover. This is what gives Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies their signature luscious middle. Top with the remaining brownie batter, smoothing it carefully to seal in that hidden peanut butter treasure.
Step 4: Add Chocolate and Bake
Generously sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips over the brownie surface. Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top looks set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. This ensures your brownies stay gooey and don’t overbake. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares — the hard part is waiting, but it’s worth it!
How to Serve Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies
Garnishes
These brownies are already decadent, but a little extra flair never hurts! A light dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of warm melted chocolate, or even a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can transform them into a truly special dessert. Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you’re feeling indulgent!
Side Dishes
For a classic dessert plate, serve Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies with a fresh fruit salad or a few juicy berries on the side to add brightness. A dollop of sweetened whipped cream or a tall glass of cold milk also rounds out the richness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your brownies into fun shapes with cookie cutters for parties, or layer them parfait-style in a glass with whipped cream and more chocolate chips. For celebration platters, arrange them with chocolate-dipped strawberries or peanut butter cups, and watch them disappear in no time!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (a rare occasion!), keep Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. They’ll stay delightfully soft and chewy.
Freezing
These brownies freeze wonderfully! Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and place in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature for best results — the peanut butter layer stays perfectly creamy!
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-from-the-oven experience, microwave a brownie square for about 10–15 seconds. The chocolate chips will melt into little puddles and the peanut butter layer gets ooey-gooey, just like new.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter instead?
You can, but keep in mind that natural peanut butter is usually runnier and less sweet, which can change the texture and taste. For the best results, use a no-stir, creamy variety for your Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies.
What if I don’t have parchment paper?
If you’re out of parchment paper, generously grease your baking pan with butter or nonstick spray. Just be extra careful when removing the brownies — let them cool all the way for easier cutting and lifting.
How do I know when these brownies are done?
Look for a set top and use the toothpick test: insert it in the center and check for a few moist crumbs (not wet batter). This ensures your Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies are perfectly fudgy and not overbaked.
Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Absolutely! Double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. You may need to add 5–10 minutes to the baking time, but keep an eye out so they stay fudgy.
Are there any nut-free alternatives?
If you need a nut-free version, try substituting sunflower seed butter or cookie butter in place of peanut butter. The taste will be a little different, but still deliciously gooey and indulgent.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am to bake and bite into these Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies! With their decadent layers and rich flavors, they’re truly a treat worth sharing — or savoring all to yourself. Give them a try and enjoy every gooey, chocolatey, peanut buttery bite!
Print
Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 9 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the decadent combination of rich, fudgy brownies and creamy peanut butter with these Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies. A perfect treat for peanut butter lovers!
Ingredients
Brownie Batter:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Peanut Butter Filling:
- 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Mix brownie batter: Melt butter, then stir in sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Add cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder and mix.
- Layer: Spread half of the brownie batter in the pan. Mix peanut butter and powdered sugar, spread over the batter. Top with remaining batter and chocolate chips.
- Bake: Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until set. Cool before cutting into squares.
Notes
- For thicker brownies, use a 7×7-inch pan and adjust baking time.
- Enhance flavor with chopped peanuts or extra peanut butter swirls.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
