There’s nothing quite like biting into a decadent dessert with layers of flavor and texture that perfectly complement each other. These Peanut Butter Brownie bars are the epitome of a sweet and salty treat that you’ll find irresistible. In just one bite, you’ll experience the rich, fudgy brownie base and the creamy, nutty peanut butter topping. Making them is straightforward yet immensely rewarding and you’ll soon find that they become a staple in your baking repertoire.
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With three generations of bakers in my family, it’s no surprise that dessert recipes have a special place in my heart. My grandmother first introduced me to the magic of combining chocolate and Peanut Butter in desserts. Her kitchen always smelled of freshly baked goodies, and it wasn’t long before her famous brownies became a family legend. This particular recipe pays homage to her legacy, adding a modern twist that enhances the flavor profile even further.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a marrying of two classic flavors in a way that is both elegant and approachable. The brownies are fudgy but not overly sweet, leaving room for the Peanut Butter to shine. What makes it stand out is its simplicity—it requires common pantry ingredients and can be assembled quickly. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice, you’ll find this a pleasantly straightforward recipe where the results are always impressive. Plus, it’s easy to make a day ahead, making it ideal for entertaining.
Ingredients Notes
Most ingredients for these bars are kitchen staples, ensuring you need to buy minimal items. For the chocolate, opt for a high-quality dark chocolate for a richer flavor. If you prefer milk chocolate, that’s an acceptable substitution—just note it will yield a sweeter result. Creamy Peanut Butter works best for a smooth texture, but crunchy peanut butter can add an interesting twist. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before beginning for the best results.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. Gather your ingredients, ensuring everything is measured out and ready to go.
Step 2
Melt chocolate and butter together in a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler, stirring occasionally, until smooth. Let it cool slightly before stirring in the sugar, vanilla extract, and eggs, one at a time, until well blended.
Step 3
Gently fold in the flour and salt into the chocolate mixture without over mixing. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure it’s evenly distributed.
Step 4
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs. Allow it to cool in the pan on a wire rack.
Step 5
While the brownies are cooling, warm the Peanut Butter slightly in the microwave for about 20 seconds to make it more spreadable. Pour the peanut butter over the cooled brownies and spread evenly. Allow it to set before cutting into bars.
Storage Options
These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer-term storage, wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to two months. To enjoy from frozen, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and serve.
Variations & Substitutions
For a more indulgent version, you can add a layer of caramel between the brownie and peanut butter. If gluten-free is needed, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. To cater to a vegan diet, swap out the eggs with flax eggs and ensure all other ingredients are vegan-friendly.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are perfect as a quick dessert at a family dinner or as a sweet snack at a casual gathering. Top optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a sprinkle of sea salt flakes for an elevated touch. They also make a delightful treat to pack along for picnics or as a welcome addition to a party platter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different nut butter instead of peanut butter? Certainly! Almond or cashew butter both work well in this recipe and add their own unique flavors. Keep in mind that different nut butters have varying consistencies, so you might need to adjust slightly for texture.
How can I tell if the brownies are done baking? The best way to check is with a toothpick test. Insert it into the center of the brownies, and if it comes out with just a few moist crumbs, they’re ready. The brownies will continue to firm up as they cool due to carryover cooking.
What type of chocolate is best for this recipe? A semi-sweet or dark chocolate is recommended for its depth of flavor without being overly sweet. Feel free to experiment with chocolate chips, chunks, or even white chocolate for a fun twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
How To Make Magic Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups graham cracker crumbs finely crushed
- 1.5 cups salted butter melted and cooled
- 2 cups peanut butter smooth and creamy
- 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips divided use
- 1.5 cups powdered sugar sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract pure
- 0.5 cup chopped peanuts optional, for garnish
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl. Mix until well combined.
- Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even layer.
- In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine peanut butter and 1.5 cups of chocolate chips. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the melted mixture and stir until thoroughly combined.
- Spread the peanut butter mixture over the graham cracker crust using an offset spatula.
- In another bowl, melt the remaining chocolate chips in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
- Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle with chopped peanuts if desired. Refrigerate until firm, about 2 hours.
- Allow the bars to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
