Peanut Butter Brookies

If you’re a fan of the glorious combination of chocolate and peanut butter, then you’re in for a real treat with this Peanut Butter Brookies recipe! Imagine rich, fudgy brownies swirled with creamy, delicious peanut butter cookie dough. It’s a dessert that brings together the best of both worlds, satisfying every sweet tooth in the room. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving something sweet, these brookies are sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details of how to make these delightful treats.

Why I Love This Recipe

Peanut Butter Brookies are the ultimate decadent dessert that combines two beloved treats into one! The rich flavors of chocolate brownies perfectly complement the creamy, nutty goodness of peanut butter cookies. What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare without sacrificing flavor or texture. Plus, who can resist the beautiful marbling of peanut butter and chocolate? It’s truly a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds!

The Essentials

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter: Use a brand like Skippy or Jif for the best results. Avoid natural peanut butter that separates.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: This will add sweetness to the peanut butter cookie layer.
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed: For a touch of molasses flavor and moisture.
• 1 large egg: Helps bind the peanut butter cookie dough.
• 2 ounces unsweetened baking chocolate: Coarsely chopped for the brownie layer.
• 2 ounces semi-sweet baking chocolate: Coarsely chopped for added sweetness in the brownies.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 ½ sticks): Essential for rich brownie texture.
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetness for the brownie layer.
• 3 large eggs: For structure and moisture in the brownies.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: A must for flavor enhancement.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: To give the brownie structure.
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste: To balance the sweetness.

Equipment Breakdown

• Mixing Bowls: A few different sizes will help keep things organized.
• Whisk: Perfect for combining ingredients smoothly.
• Rubber Spatula: Great for folding in your ingredients.
• 9×13-inch Baking Pan: Ideal for baking your brookies evenly.
• Parchment Paper: Use this to line your baking pan for easy removal.
• Double Boiler or Microwave-Safe Bowl: For melting your chocolate.

Step-by-Step: Peanut Butter Brookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for ensuring your brookies bake evenly and perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. This will make it easier to lift the brookies out once they are baked.

Step 3: Make the Peanut Butter Cookie Layer

In a large mixing bowl, combine the 1 cup of creamy peanut butter, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 cup of packed light brown sugar. Mix until smooth. Add in 1 large egg and stir until fully integrated.

Step 4: Make the Brownie Layer

In a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, melt the 2 ounces of unsweetened baking chocolate, 2 ounces of semi-sweet baking chocolate, and 1/2 cup of unsalted butter together until smooth. Allow to cool slightly.

In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar, 3 large eggs, and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract until well combined. Slowly add the melted chocolate mixture to the egg mixture, whisking continuously.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, sift together 1 cup of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into the chocolate mixture and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!

Step 6: Layer the Mixtures

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Then, dollop spoonfuls of the peanut butter cookie dough over the brownie batter. Use a knife or a skewer to swirl the two mixtures together, creating a marbled effect.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake, as you want your brookies to remain fudgy!

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the brookies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out, then let cool completely on a wire rack before cutting into squares.

How to Make It Lighter

• Replace half of the granulated sugar with a sugar substitute like Stevia or erythritol.
• Use a low-fat peanut butter option, though be mindful that this may affect the texture.
• Substitute unsweetened applesauce for some of the butter in the brownie layer.
• Consider using egg whites instead of whole eggs to reduce fat content.

Troubleshooting Tips

• If your brookies are too dry, reduce the baking time slightly next time.
• For a richer chocolate flavor, consider adding an extra ounce of semi-sweet chocolate.
• If the peanut butter cookie layer is crumbly, ensure you’re using creamy peanut butter and not a natural variety.
• For a deeper flavor, add a touch of coffee to the brownie batter.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

Store your Peanut Butter Brookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn!

Quick Questions

Can I use natural peanut butter in this recipe?

It’s best to avoid natural peanut butter as it tends to be oily and can affect the texture of the cookie layer. Stick with a creamy brand like Skippy or Jif for the best results.

How do I know when the brookies are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the brookies; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. This indicates they are fudgy and perfect!

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to stir in some chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the brownie batter for an extra crunch and flavor.

What’s the best way to cut brookies for serving?

To cut your brookies neatly, use a sharp knife and make sure they are completely cooled. Wipe the knife clean between cuts for clean edges.

Final Bite

Peanut Butter Brookies are a delightful treat that will leave you craving more. This recipe combines the best elements of peanut butter cookies and fudgy brownies, creating a dessert that is sure to be a favorite. With easy-to-follow steps and simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a gathering or just treating yourself, these brookies are always a hit.

Enjoy the delightful experience of baking and indulging in your very own Peanut Butter Brookies! They’re sure to be a sweet addition to your dessert repertoire, and you’ll be left wondering how you ever lived without them. Happy baking!