Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe

If you’re craving a dessert that beautifully blends rich, fudgy goodness with a creamy surprise in the center, let me introduce you to Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies. These delightful treats offer a luscious layer of smooth peanut butter encased within perfectly baked chocolate brownie layers, creating a harmony of flavors that’s just irresistible. Every bite feels like a cozy, indulgent hug—whether you’re treating yourself on a cozy evening or impressing friends at your next gathering. Trust me, once you try these Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies, they’ll quickly become your new favorite go-to dessert!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies is easier than you might think. Each one plays a vital role, contributing to creamy texture, deep chocolate flavor, or that perfect peanut butter richness that makes these brownies stand out.

• Smooth peanut butter: Make sure to use commercial smooth peanut butter for that creamy consistency without oil separation.
• Powdered sugar: Also known as icing sugar, to sweeten and thicken the peanut butter filling perfectly.
• Vanilla extract: Brings a fragrant warmth to both the peanut butter filling and brownie batter.
• All-purpose flour: The backbone of the brownie structure, providing just the right chewiness.
• Cocoa powder: Adds deep chocolate flavor without heaviness.
• Salt: Enhances all the sweet flavors and balances the richness.
• Unsalted butter: Offers moisture and smoothness when melted with chocolate.
• Semi-sweet chocolate: Chopped or chips, delivering that classic fudgy brownie taste.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter and gives a glossy finish.
• Eggs and egg yolk: Provide structure and a tender crumb to your brownies.

How to Make Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies

Step 1: Preparing Your Pan and Peanut Butter Filling

Start by lining an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the sides. This makes removing the brownies a breeze later on. To make the peanut butter filling, whip together the smooth peanut butter, powdered sugar, and a pinch of salt until silky and lump free. Pop this mixture into the fridge while you prepare the brownie batter, so it firms up just right for stuffing.

Step 2: Mixing the Brownie Batter

Whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt in a bowl to ensure no clumps. Then melt the butter and chopped semi-sweet chocolate gently until smooth and glossy—microwave in intervals or use a double boiler, stirring often. Let it cool slightly before whisking in granulated sugar, eggs, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until you have a luscious, glossy batter without any lumps of egg. Finally, fold in your dry ingredients carefully until smooth and ready.

Step 3: Assembling the Layers

Pour half of the brownie batter evenly into your prepared pan, smoothing it out so it’s level. Retrieve the chilled peanut butter filling and scoop tablespoons of it onto the chocolate layer, gently flattening each to cover the area evenly—don’t worry if it doesn’t cover every inch. Carefully spoon the remaining brownie batter on top, making sure to spread it evenly without disturbing that perfect peanut butter center.

Step 4: Baking to Perfection

Bake the assembled brownies in a preheated 350°F (180°C) oven for 32 to 37 minutes. The brownies are done when the top looks set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, not wet batter. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan to allow the peanut butter filling to set beautifully. For quicker cooling, place the pan in the fridge on a wire rack before slicing.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies

Garnishes

These brownies shine on their own, but a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate can elevate their appearance and flavor. For extra flair, sprinkle some crushed peanuts or a pinch of flaky sea salt on top just before serving to add texture and contrast.

Side Dishes

For a truly indulgent treat, serve Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce complement their rich chocolate and peanut butter layers wonderfully, balancing richness with freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut your brownies into small squares and serve them on a dessert platter alongside espresso shots or flavored coffee for a charming party presentation. You can also sandwich two brownie squares around a swirl of peanut butter frosting for an extra decadent twist that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay delicious for up to four days, making them a perfect treat to enjoy over several days or share with friends.

Freezing

These brownies freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place inside a freezer-safe bag or container. Stored this way, they can last for up to three months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving to maintain texture and flavor.

Reheating

If you prefer warm brownies, gently reheat individual pieces in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds or until just warm. Avoid overheating to keep the peanut butter center gooey but not melted into the batter.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter for the filling?

It’s best to avoid natural peanut butter because it separates and is more oily, which can affect the texture of the filling. Smooth, commercial peanut butter provides the creamy, stable consistency needed for perfectly stuffing these brownies.

What if I don’t have semi-sweet chocolate?

You can use 50-60% dark chocolate or even chocolate chips if that’s what you have on hand. Just avoid very dark chocolate over 65% as it might overpower the peanut butter flavor in this recipe.

How do I get neat layers when assembling the brownies?

Use a spoon or small cookie scoop to portion your peanut butter filling and flatten it gently before adding the top batter layer carefully with a spoon, rather than pouring. This prevents the filling from mixing into the chocolate layers and keeps your brownie layers distinct and beautiful.

Can I make smaller or larger batches?

Absolutely! Just adjust the ingredient quantities proportionally. Keep the baking time similar but start checking for doneness a little earlier or later depending on the size of your pan.

Are these brownies gluten-free?

Not as written, since they contain all-purpose flour. However, you can try substituting a gluten-free flour blend one-for-one for the flour in the recipe. Keep in mind the texture might vary slightly.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dessert that effortlessly combines rich chocolate with creamy peanut butter, these Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies are absolutely worth making. They bring so much joy in every bite, whether shared with family, gifted to friends, or savored solo. Dive into the magic of baking these, and I’m sure they’ll find a permanent spot in your dessert rotation!

Print