Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownies

These rich chocolate peanut butter brownies bring together gooey chocolate base and a fluffy peanut butter frosting for the ultimate sweet treat. No matter the season these always steal the show at potlucks and family movie nights

I tried this combo when I wanted an easy birthday dessert and they have become my go-to for every special occasion

Ingredients

• Butter: for both brownie and frosting choose unsalted for best control of flavor and check for a fresh cream scent
• Semi sweet chocolate: look for bars with around sixty percent cacao for perfect richness chop it finely for best melting
• Granulated sugar: for sweetness balances the deep chocolate notes use the freshest you have for best texture
• Brown sugar: adds moisture and a subtle caramel flavor look for soft packed sugar free of lumps
• Eggs: bring structure and richness use large eggs at room temperature for even mixing
• Vanilla extract: ties together chocolate and peanut butter flavors pure vanilla is worth the splurge
• All purpose flour: traditional texture in brownies sift if lumpy to prevent streaks
• Cocoa powder: boosts chocolate depth opt for Dutch process if possible for a smoother taste
• Salt: brightens sweetness and balances flavor use sea salt if you can find it
• Peanut butter: creamy store bought spreads work best they give the frosting that classic flavor
• Powdered sugar: creates velvety frosting sift so it blends lump free
• Milk or cream: makes your frosting spreadable start with one spoon and adjust for texture

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the brownie's base:

Melt unsalted butter with chopped semi sweet chocolate in short bursts in the microwave or gently over a double boiler allow it to cool just a couple minutes until warm to the touch

Mix the sugars and eggs:

Add both granulated and brown sugar to the melted chocolate whisk in the vanilla and eggs until the mixture looks thick and glossy this gives moisture and shine

Fold dry ingredients:

Sift in flour cocoa powder and salt gently mix with a spatula until just combined stopping as soon as there are no streaks for a dense fudgy result

Bake in the pan:

Pour the batter into a parchment lined eight inch square pan smooth the top and bake at three hundred fifty degrees until a tester in the center comes out with moist crumbs this usually takes about twenty five to twenty eight minutes

Cool completely:

Let the brownies sit in the pan at least an hour so the texture sets and they are easy to frost without tears

Whip up peanut butter frosting:

Beat softened butter with creamy peanut butter until smooth then add sifted powdered sugar in parts alternating with a splash of milk or cream beat until you get a spreadable frosting that holds soft peaks then add in the vanilla and salt

Frost and decorate:

Lift cooled brownies from the pan using the parchment and spread the frosting evenly across the top for a neat look use an offset spatula sprinkle with chocolate candies or chopped peanut butter cups if you like then slice generously

Save

My favorite part is always licking the peanut butter frosting straight from the bowl and I remember making these with my siblings one rainy afternoon while we camped out under a pillow fort

Storage Tips

Keep brownies in a covered container at room temperature if you plan to eat them within three days. For longer keeping store frosted brownies in the fridge and bring to room temperature to soften before serving. You can also freeze the brownie base for a month tightly wrapped then frost when ready to enjoy fresh tasting brownies anytime

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap semi sweet chocolate for dark or milk depending on your preference. Use a natural peanut butter only if well stirred so the frosting is smooth. If you need dairy free brownies switch to vegan butter in both the brownie and frosting and use plant based milk to adjust the frosting texture

Serving Suggestions

Serve your brownies in small squares for a party plate. Warm leftovers slightly and top with vanilla ice cream for a true dessert moment. Add a sprinkle of flaky salt or extra drizzle of melted chocolate just before serving for an elegant touch

A Little History

Chocolate and peanut butter are a classic American combo dating back to the early twentieth century. Brownies themselves have roots in American baking since the turn of the century and pairing the two reflects how comfort desserts evolve with our cravings

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

Check by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.

→ Can I use natural peanut butter for the frosting?

Natural peanut butter changes the texture; creamy, shelf-stable peanut butter is best for a smooth, stable frosting.

→ How do I make clean cuts for serving?

Chill the frosted brownies and use a sharp, clean knife. Wipe the blade between cuts for neat edges.

→ What can I use to garnish the top?

Try sprinkling chopped peanut butter cups, Reese’s Pieces, or a dusting of cocoa powder for extra flair.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Unfrosted brownies freeze well for up to 2 months. Thaw completely before adding the peanut butter frosting.

→ Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking brownies.