If you’re searching for the ultimate dessert mashup, these Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies bring together two all-time favorites in one glorious treat. Imagine biting through a crackly chocolate top and sinking into a molten layer of sweet, creamy peanut butter—all wrapped up in the fudgiest, most decadent brownie imaginable. This is the bake that stops conversation and inspires requests for the recipe, every single time. Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies are as much a joy to make as they are to eat, and once you try them, you’ll never look at regular brownies the same way again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to brownie bliss. Each one plays a starring role—whether bringing deep chocolate flavor, ultimate chewiness, or that irresistible peanut butter core. These essentials are all you need for that bakery-style wow factor in your own kitchen.
- 1 cup unsalted butter: Melting this first creates that glossy, dense brownie texture everyone loves.
- 2¼ cups granulated sugar: The right amount for a sweet taste and that classic crackly brownie top.
- 4 large eggs: For richness, structure, and making the brownies lush and fudgy.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and rounds out all the chocolate and peanut flavors.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Key for binding the brownies, but just the right amount keeps them from turning cakey.
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: The foundation for that deep, intense chocolate taste.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and amps up the flavors.
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melty pockets of chocolate in every bite—absolute must!
- ¾ cup creamy peanut butter: This is the soul of Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies, turning every bite into pure bliss.
- ¼ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the peanut butter layer for the perfect contrast.
How to Make Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit overhanging the edges for easy removal later. This simple step guarantees easy lifting and perfectly cut squares every time.
Step 2: Melt the Butter and Mix With Sugar
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt your butter gently. As soon as it’s completely melted, stir in the granulated sugar. You’ll notice the mixture turns glossy and thick—this is crucial for extra fudgy brownies with a shiny top.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Allow the butter-sugar mixture to cool slightly so it doesn’t scramble the eggs. Whisk in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. The batter will become luscious and smooth, setting the stage for your chocolate masterpiece.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Sifting ensures even distribution and keeps the brownies light while still maintaining their signature chewy bite.
Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients into your wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. It’s important not to overmix here—just enough so you don’t see any dry flour. Then, fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips for pools of melty chocolate scattered throughout.
Step 6: Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling
In a separate small bowl, mix together the creamy peanut butter and powdered sugar. The result should be smooth, sweet, and slightly thick—perfect for stuffing your brownies with that classic peanut butter flavor.
Step 7: Layer the Brownie and Peanut Butter Batters
Spread half of the brownie batter evenly into your prepared pan. Next, drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter mixture on top, gently smearing it into an even layer. Top everything with the remaining brownie batter and smooth it out for a seamless finish.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Transfer your pan to the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The center should be just set, and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs—this ensures your Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies stay moist and rich.
Step 9: Cool and Slice
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before lifting them out and slicing. This patience pays off! If you cut them too soon, you risk losing that distinct peanut butter layer and fudgy middle.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies
Garnishes
For a little extra magic, dust the tops with powdered sugar, drizzle with melted chocolate, or sprinkle chopped roasted peanuts. Each garnish adds both style and a punch of flavor to highlight the peanut butter and chocolate harmony.
Side Dishes
Nothing screams indulgence like serving these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The cool, creamy sidekick melts into the warm, gooey brownie for an unforgettable bite every time.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to step up your dessert game, try cutting the brownies into fun shapes using a cookie cutter or stack them high for a brownie tower at your next celebration. You can even make mini Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies in a muffin tin for perfect party-sized portions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftover Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The peanut butter layer keeps them moist, so they’re just as delicious on day three as they are fresh from the oven.
Freezing
These brownies freeze beautifully! Once completely cool, wrap each square individually in plastic wrap, then layer them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to two months, ready for any future chocolate emergencies.
Reheating
Want your Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies warm and gooey again? Pop a single square in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds—just enough to make the peanut butter center soft and melty without drying out the brownie.
FAQs
Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Chunky peanut butter will add a bit of crunch and texture to the filling, making each bite even more exciting. Just make sure it’s still spreadable so you can layer it smoothly between the brownie batter.
What if I don’t have a 9×13-inch pan?
You can use a slightly smaller or larger pan, but keep in mind your brownies might be thicker or thinner. Just adjust the baking time accordingly, keeping an eye so they don’t over or under bake.
How do I get clean cuts for my brownies?
For that perfect bakery-style look, let your Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies cool completely, then use a sharp knife wiped clean between each cut. Chilling them in the fridge for 30 minutes before slicing also helps create neat, tidy squares.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute a good-quality 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour. The taste and texture should remain delightfully close to the original, so everyone can enjoy them.
Why did my brownies come out dry?
Overbaking is often the culprit. Since every oven is a little different, start checking your brownies a few minutes before the suggested baking time ends. Remember that a few moist crumbs on your tester means fudgy perfection!
Final Thoughts
Baking these Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies is truly a labor of love that rewards both the baker and anyone lucky enough to taste them. Bold, gooey, and bursting with nostalgia, every bite says you care. So gather your ingredients, share a pan with your favorite people, and see why Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies will always steal the show.
PrintPeanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe
Indulge in the ultimate chocolate and peanut butter treat with these decadent Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies. Rich, fudgy brownie layers encase a creamy peanut butter filling, creating a delightful dessert that’s a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Brownie Batter:
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Peanut Butter Filling:
- 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Melt Butter and Combine: Melt butter in a microwave-safe bowl, stir in sugar until glossy. Cool slightly, then whisk in eggs and vanilla until smooth.
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: Sift together flour, cocoa powder, and salt in a separate bowl.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips.
- Make Peanut Butter Layer: Mix peanut butter and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Layer Batter: Spread half of the brownie batter in the pan, add spoonfuls of peanut butter mixture, top with remaining batter.
- Bake: Bake for 30–35 minutes until set. Cool before cutting into squares.
Notes
- For a richer chocolate flavor, add ½ cup chopped dark chocolate to the batter.
- You can swirl the peanut butter for a marbled effect instead of layering it.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 27g
- Sodium: 130mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 60mg