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Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe

4.4 from 143 reviews

Decadent chocolate peanut butter brownies with a rich, fudgy texture topped with creamy peanut butter frosting. These brownies combine the best of both flavors for a delightful treat perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Brownies

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (112 grams)
  • 5 ounces semi-sweet chocolate (142 grams) (or 50-70% dark chocolate, finely chopped)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100 grams)
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar (105 grams)
  • 2 large eggs (whisked)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (63 grams)
  • 1/4 cup cocoa powder (22 grams)
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Peanut Butter Frosting

  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter (75 grams) (softened)
  • 1/3 cup smooth peanut butter (do not use natural peanut butter)
  • 1 1/22 cups powdered sugar (165220 grams)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 12 tbsp milk (or cream)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
  2. Melt chocolate and butter: In a heatproof bowl, combine the butter and finely chopped chocolate. Microwave in 45-second intervals on medium power, stirring between intervals until smooth. Alternatively, melt together using a double boiler. Allow to cool slightly.
  3. Mix sugars and eggs: Whisk the granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and whisked eggs into the cooled chocolate mixture until fully combined.
  4. Add dry ingredients: Stir in the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder (sift if lumpy), and salt until just combined, ensuring not to overmix.
  5. Bake the brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-28 minutes, or until the top is set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.
  6. Prepare peanut butter frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth. Add the smooth peanut butter and beat to combine, accepting a few lumps if present.
  7. Add powdered sugar and flavorings: Gradually beat in 1 cup of powdered sugar along with vanilla extract and salt. Continue to beat at low speed, increasing to medium as the mixture comes together.
  8. Finish frosting: Add the remaining powdered sugar in 1/2 cup increments, alternating with 1 tablespoon of milk or cream, until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
  9. Cool brownies: Once baked, allow brownies to cool completely in the pan. Use the overhang of parchment or foil to lift brownies out of the pan onto a cutting board.
  10. Frost and serve: Spread the peanut butter frosting evenly over the cooled brownies. Optionally, sprinkle with Reese’s Pieces or chopped peanut butter cups. Slice brownies using a thin, sharp knife and serve.

Notes

  • Use smooth peanut butter for frosting; natural peanut butter may cause separation.
  • Do not overbake brownies to maintain fudgy texture.
  • For melting chocolate, stirring frequently ensures even melting without burning.
  • Optional toppings like Reese’s Pieces or chopped peanut butter cups add texture and extra flavor.
  • Allow the brownies to cool fully before frosting to prevent melting the frosting.

Keywords: chocolate peanut butter brownies, fudgy brownies, peanut butter frosting, chocolate dessert, easy brownies recipe, homemade brownies