Description of this recipe :
These Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies are the ultimate indulgence, combining rich, fudgy brownies with a creamy, salty-sweet peanut butter center. Every bite is a symphony of textures and flavors that will leave you craving more.
Why you will love this recipe You will love these brownies because they are incredibly easy to make, yet deliver a gourmet-level experience. The contrasting flavors of dark chocolate and peanut butter create an irresistible combination, while the frozen peanut butter slab ensures a perfectly gooey center. Plus, the sea salt flakes add a delightful burst of saltiness that elevates the whole dessert.
Ingredients:
Cups Metric Peanut butter matters ▢1 cup (250g) smooth peanut butter spread for stuffing – not natural pure peanut butter, use the sandwich spread type (Bega, Skippy’s), Note 1 ▢1 tsp salt flakes , divided Brownie ▢200g / 14 tbsp unsalted butter (1 3/4 US sticks) ▢1 1/4 cups (200g) dark chocolate chips (7 oz) (Note 2) ▢1 cup loosely packed brown sugar , loosely packed ▢3 large eggs , lightly beaten ▢1 tsp vanilla extract ▢1/2 cup plain flour ▢1/4 cup cocoa powder ▢1/8 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt
Preparation: Step 1: Line Pan – Grease a 20cm/8″ square pan with butter, then line with baking paper (parchment). Make sure the baking paper overhangs the sides of the pan; this will make it easier to lift the brownies out later. This step is crucial for easy removal and clean cuts.
Step 2: Frozen Peanut Butter Slab – Set aside 2 tablespoons of the peanut butter for swirling. Warm the remaining peanut butter in the microwave to loosen (~30 seconds on high). Pour the warmed peanut butter into the prepared pan. Spread it evenly, ensuring it reaches all corners. Sprinkle with half the sea salt flakes. Freeze for 2-3 hours until it’s so firm you can pick it up. Once frozen, lift it out of the pan using the paper, then put it back in the freezer on the paper while you make the batter. This prevents it from softening too quickly.
Step 3: Preheat Oven – Preheat your oven to 180°C/350°F (160°C fan-forced). Ensuring your oven is properly preheated is essential for even baking and the perfect brownie texture.
Step 4: Melt Chocolate and Butter – Place the butter and chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until melted and smooth (approximately 1 minute 30 seconds). Stir well to combine, ensuring there are no lumps. A smooth, consistent mixture is key for a fudgy brownie.
Step 5: Prepare Batter – Add the brown sugar to the melted chocolate mixture and mix until well combined. The brown sugar adds moisture and a caramel-like flavor to the brownies. Then, add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well until the batter is smooth and molten. Finally, add the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix, which can result in tough brownies.
Step 6: Assemble Brownies – Pour half of the brownie batter into the lined pan, spreading it evenly. Carefully place the frozen peanut butter slab on top of the batter. Spread the remaining brownie batter over the peanut butter, ensuring it covers the slab completely.
Step 7: Swirl Peanut Butter – Randomly dollop or drizzle the reserved 2 tablespoons of peanut butter across the surface of the batter. Use a butter knife or teaspoon to create random swirls, making grooves to reveal the brownie batter underneath. This creates a beautiful marbled effect and ensures bursts of peanut butter flavor throughout the brownies.
Step 8: Bake – Bake for 32 minutes. The middle will still jiggle slightly, but the edges should be firm. Remember that the brownies will continue to set as they cool.
Step 9: Cool and Set – Cool the brownies in the pan on the counter for an hour, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours to allow them to set properly. This prevents the peanut butter from oozing out when cutting.
Step 10: Serve – Cut the brownies into 16 squares. Let them come to room temperature for 15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to develop and the texture to soften slightly. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
COOKING Rating: These brownies are rated as moderate in difficulty due to the multiple steps, including freezing the peanut butter and layering the ingredients. However, each step is straightforward, and the results are well worth the effort.
Serving Suggestions: Serve these brownies warm or at room temperature with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They are also delicious with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of extra sea salt. Pair them with a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of coffee for the ultimate indulgence.
Tips: Use the right peanut butter: Avoid natural peanut butter, as it tends to separate and can become oily when baked. Use a smooth peanut butter spread like Skippy or Bega for the best results. Don’t overbake: Overbaking will result in dry, crumbly brownies. The middle should still jiggle slightly when you remove them from the oven. Chill thoroughly: Chilling the brownies for at least 3 hours is essential for clean cuts and preventing the peanut butter from oozing. Get creative with swirls: Experiment with different swirling patterns to create a unique look. You can use a toothpick, skewer, or even the handle of a spoon to create intricate designs.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 32 minutes
Total Time: 5 hours (includes freezing and chilling time)
Nutritional Information: (Approximate values per serving) Calories: 350 kcal Protein: 8g Sodium: 200mg
Conclusion These Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies are a decadent treat that combines the best of both worlds: rich, fudgy brownies and creamy, salty-sweet peanut butter. They are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, impressing guests, or simply indulging in a little bit of happiness. Whether you are a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the irresistible combination of flavors and textures in every bite!
5 Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
Q1: Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe? A: It’s not recommended to use natural peanut butter for the stuffed layer. Natural peanut butter tends to separate and can become oily when baked, which can affect the texture and consistency of the peanut butter filling. Using a smooth peanut butter spread like Skippy or Bega will yield the best results.
Q2: What happens if I overbake the brownies? A: Overbaking the brownies can result in a dry and crumbly texture. It’s important to keep an eye on the brownies while they’re baking and remove them from the oven when the edges are firm and the middle still jiggles slightly. The brownies will continue to set as they cool.
Q3: Why do I need to freeze the peanut butter before baking? A: Freezing the peanut butter slab helps it maintain its shape during baking and prevents it from melting completely into the brownie batter. This ensures a distinct peanut butter layer within the brownies.
Q4: Can I add other ingredients to the brownie batter? A: Absolutely! Feel free to add other ingredients to customize the brownies to your liking. Chopped nuts, chocolate chunks, or even a swirl of caramel can be added to the batter for extra flavor and texture.
Q5: How long can I store these brownies? A: These brownies can be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Allow the brownies to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
