If you’re craving an irresistible dessert that unites rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter in every bite, this Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe is going to become your new obsession. Imagine fudgy brownies with pockets of gooey peanut butter cups baked right inside, topped with melted chocolate and crunchy peanut butter pieces—it’s the perfect balance of decadent and playful. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just treating yourself, these brownies bring pure joy with every bite and are surprisingly simple to make.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the essentials for this Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe is a breeze, and each ingredient plays a special role in creating the perfect texture and flavor harmony. From the deep cocoa notes of unsweetened chocolate to the luscious richness of peanut butter cups, every component matters.
- 2 oz unsweetened chocolate, melted: Provides an intense chocolate base that makes the brownies irresistibly fudgy.
- 1/3 cup canola oil: Keeps the brownies moist and tender without overpowering flavors.
- 2 eggs: Adds structure and richness for that perfect brownie chew.
- 1 cup sugar: Sweetens and balances the bitterness of the dark chocolate.
- 3/4 cup flour: Gives the brownies body while keeping them soft.
- 1/2 tsp baking powder: Helps the batter rise just enough for a delicate crumb.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and cuts through sweetness.
- 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate): Adds melty chocolate goodness on top for extra indulgence.
- 1 cup chopped peanut butter cups: Offers a crunchy texture and bursts of peanut butter flavor throughout.
- 1 bag peanut butter cups, unwrapped: The star ingredient stuffed right inside the brownies for a gooey surprise.
How to Make Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Get an 8-inch baking dish ready by spraying with non-stick spray or lining it with foil or parchment paper. This prep ensures your brownies come out cleanly and with perfect edges.
Step 2: Create the Chocolate Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine the melted unsweetened chocolate and canola oil until smooth and glossy. Then whisk in the eggs and sugar, blending until the mixture is creamy and luscious. This forms the rich base that anchors your brownies.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gently fold in the flour, baking powder, and salt, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing here to keep your brownies tender and fudgy instead of cakey.
Step 4: Layer the Batter and Peanut Butter Cups
Spread half of the brownie batter evenly in your prepared baking dish. Next, layer the unwrapped peanut butter cups across the batter surface, spacing them out to give that wonderful peanut buttery center in every slice.
Step 5: Add Remaining Batter and Bake
Pour the remaining brownie batter over the peanut butter cups, smoothing the top for an even bake. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean, with just a few crumbs clinging for that perfect fudgy finish.
Step 6: Decadent Toppings
Immediately after removing from the oven, sprinkle chocolate chips over the warm brownies. Cover the dish loosely with foil for about 10 minutes so the chips can melt into a glossy chocolate layer.
Step 7: Final Touches
Using a spatula, spread the melted chocolate chips across the top of the brownies for that smooth, shiny finish. Finally, sprinkle chopped peanut butter cups on top to add a delightful crunch and an extra pop of peanut butter flavor.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing. This cooling step helps everything set nicely so your brownies hold their shape and reveal those peanut butter treasures inside with every bite.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
For a touch of elegance and extra texture, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt or toasted chopped peanuts on top. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully to contrast the warm, fudgy brownies.
Side Dishes
Serving your brownies alongside fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or banana slices adds a refreshing twist and balances the richness. A cold glass of milk or a cup of strong coffee are classic companions that everyone loves.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe to the next level by cutting them into bite-sized squares and serving on a decorative platter for a party. You can also layer them in parfait glasses with whipped cream and chopped nuts for a stunning dessert presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to keep them moist and chewy. If your kitchen is warm, refrigerating is an option but may firm up the chocolate a bit.
Freezing
These brownies freeze beautifully! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to three months, making it easy to enjoy this Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe anytime the craving strikes.
Reheating
To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge then warm in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds if you prefer a soft, melty texture again. This brings back that freshly-baked feeling with no hassle.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter instead of peanut butter cups?
While natural peanut butter adds great flavor, the magic of this recipe is in the gooey peanut butter cups that melt inside the brownies. For a similar effect, you could use a combination of natural peanut butter swirled into the batter and some chopped peanut butter cups.
What if I don’t have unsweetened chocolate? Can I substitute with cocoa powder?
You can substitute with 3 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder mixed with 2 tablespoons of oil to mimic the fat content, but unsweetened chocolate gives the richest, fudgiest results in this recipe.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup for cup. Just be sure to check your baking powder is gluten-free too.
Can I double this recipe for a larger pan?
Yes, doubling the recipe works well for a 9×13 inch pan. Just keep an eye on baking time, as it may need an extra 5 to 10 minutes. Insert a toothpick to ensure it’s done.
Why do I need to cover the brownies after sprinkling the chocolate chips?
Covering traps heat, allowing the chocolate chips to melt evenly without burning. This creates that luscious, glossy chocolate layer that makes these brownies extra special.
Final Thoughts
There’s truly nothing like biting into a brownie that surprises you with a creamy, melty center of peanut butter cups while delivering intense chocolate flavor and satisfying textures. This Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe is simple to follow but promises show-stopping results every time. Whether baking for yourself, family, or friends, it guarantees smiles and requests for seconds—go ahead, treat yourself to this delightful decadent dessert today!
Print
Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these rich and fudgy Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies, featuring a luscious layer of gooey peanut butter cups baked right inside decadent chocolate brownies. Topped with melted chocolate and more chopped peanut butter cups, this treat is perfect for peanut butter and chocolate lovers seeking an indulgent dessert that’s easy to make.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 2 oz unsweetened chocolate, melted
- 1/3 cup canola oil
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup sugar
- 3/4 cup flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
Fillings and Toppings
- 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)
- 1 cup chopped peanut butter cups
- 1 bag peanut butter cups, unwrapped (approx. 10–12 cups)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or line it with foil or parchment for easy removal.
- Combine Chocolate and Oil: In a mixing bowl, stir together the melted unsweetened chocolate and canola oil until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Add Eggs and Sugar: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the sugar until the batter is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Fold in the flour, baking powder, and salt gently until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the brownies tender.
- Layer the Brownies: Spread half of the brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Arrange the unwrapped peanut butter cups in a single layer over the batter.
- Top with Remaining Batter: Pour the remaining brownie batter over the peanut butter cups, smoothing the surface evenly to cover them completely.
- Bake the Brownies: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
- Add Chocolate Chips and Melt: Remove the brownies from the oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips over the top. Cover the pan loosely with foil and let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the chips to melt.
- Spread Melted Chocolate and Add Toppings: Use a spatula to spread the melted chocolate evenly over the brownies. Sprinkle the chopped peanut butter cups on top for decoration and extra peanut butter flavor.
- Cool and Serve: Let the brownies cool completely at room temperature to set before slicing into 12 servings. Enjoy your peanut butter stuffed brownies!
Notes
- For cleaner slices, refrigerate the brownies for 30 minutes before cutting.
- You can substitute canola oil with vegetable or melted coconut oil if preferred.
- Use semi-sweet chocolate chips for a balanced sweetness or milk chocolate for a sweeter topping.
- If you like extra crunch, add chopped nuts to the batter or as a topping.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
