The Ultimate Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownie Bars Recipe

Indulging in these decadent chocolate peanut butter brownie bars promises a sweet escape from ordinary desserts.

Rich cocoa and creamy peanut butter create an irresistible combination that melts in your mouth.

Layers of fudgy goodness will transport you to a world of pure bliss.

Each bite tells a story of comfort and pure satisfaction.

Crafted with simple ingredients, this recipe brings gourmet flavors to your kitchen without complicated techniques.

Smooth chocolate meets nutty peanut butter in a dance of deliciousness that you won’t be able to resist.

Take the plunge and treat yourself to these heavenly bars that will become your new favorite indulgence.

FAQs

• What ingredients make these brownies unique?

The combination of semi-sweet chocolate, peanut butter, and dark chocolate ganache creates a rich, decadent flavor profile that blends sweet and nutty notes perfectly.

• Can I use different types of chocolate?

Yes, you can substitute semi-sweet with milk or dark chocolate based on your preference, but keep the chocolate quality high for the best taste and texture.

• How do I know when the brownies are perfectly baked?

Look for a toothpick with a few moist crumbs when inserted into the center. This indicates the brownies are fudgy and not overbaked, which would make them dry.

• Is this recipe suitable for beginner bakers?

Absolutely! The recipe uses simple techniques like melting chocolate, whisking ingredients, and spreading batter, making it an excellent starting point for those new to baking.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownie Bars Everyone Loves

• Craft a Decadent Dessert: Create an irresistible chocolate and peanut butter treat that combines rich flavors in every single bite.
• Master Easy Baking: Whip up this impressive dessert with simple steps and basic ingredients, perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Crowd-Pleasing Indulgence: Wow friends and family with a show-stopping dessert that blends classic chocolate and peanut butter in a luxurious bar format.
• Versatile Sweet Sensation: Enjoy as a special occasion dessert, potluck contribution, or weekend baking project that suits multiple settings and celebrations.

Ingredients Needed For Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownie Bars

• Butter: A rich ingredient that adds moisture and helps bind the brownie batter.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate: Provides deep chocolate flavor and smooth texture to the brownies.
• Granulated Sugar, Light Brown Sugar: Sweetens the brownies and adds depth of flavor.
• Eggs: Helps bind the ingredients and create a rich, dense texture.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall chocolate flavor profile.

• All-Purpose Flour: Creates the base structure of the brownies.
• Cocoa Powder: Intensifies the chocolate flavor and adds deep color.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances other flavors.

• Peanut Butter, Powdered Sugar: Creates a smooth, sweet peanut butter filling that complements the chocolate brownie.

• Heavy Cream, Dark Chocolate: Forms a rich, glossy chocolate topping that adds luxurious finish to the brownie bars.

Baking Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownie Bars Made Easy

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 350°F.

Grab your 9×13-inch pan and line it with parchment paper, making sure it covers the bottom and sides completely.

Step 2: Melt Chocolate and Butter

Toss butter and semi-sweet chocolate into a microwave-safe bowl.

Zap in short 30-second bursts, stirring between each round until the mixture becomes silky smooth.

Step 3: Blend Sweet Base

• Granulated sugar
• Light brown sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract

Whisk everything together until it looks perfectly blended and glossy.

Step 4: Create Chocolate Mixture

Pour the melted chocolate into the sugar mixture.

Whisk enthusiastically until the combination looks super smooth and rich.

Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients

• Flour
• Cocoa powder
• Salt

Gently fold until everything just comes together – don’t overmix!

Step 6: Build First Brownie Layer

Spread half the brownie batter evenly across the prepared pan.

Make sure it covers every corner.

Step 7: Prepare Peanut Butter Layer

In a separate bowl, mix peanut butter and powdered sugar until completely smooth.

Drop spoonfuls of this mixture randomly over the first brownie layer.

Step 8: Complete Brownie Base

Pour the remaining brownie batter over the peanut butter dollops.

Spread gently to create an even top layer.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into the preheated oven.

Bake for 30-35 minutes.

Check doneness by inserting a toothpick – it should come out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 10: Create Chocolate Ganache

Heat heavy cream in a saucepan until it starts to simmer.

Remove from heat and add dark chocolate.

Let it sit for 5 minutes, then stir until ultra-smooth.

Step 11: Top with Ganache

Once brownies have cooled slightly, pour the ganache over the top.

Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the entire surface.

Step 12: Set and Slice

Allow the ganache to set completely.

Then slice into delectable bars and serve!

Key Tips For Rich Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownie Bars

• Use short, 30-second microwave intervals and stir between each to prevent burning and achieve a silky-smooth chocolate base.
• Fold dry ingredients gently until just combined to keep brownies tender and avoid developing tough gluten strands.
• Insert a toothpick near the center – a few moist crumbs indicate perfect brownie texture, ensuring rich and fudgy results.
• Mix powdered sugar with peanut butter to create a stable, spreadable layer that won't sink into the brownie batter.
• Remove cream from heat before adding chocolate and let sit for 5 minutes, then stir until completely smooth for a professional-looking finish.

Different Spins On Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownie Bars

• Gluten-Free Brownie Bars: Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free flour blend, ensuring the same rich chocolate and peanut butter flavor for those with wheat sensitivities.
• Vegan Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars: Swap eggs with flax eggs, use coconut oil instead of butter, and select dairy-free chocolate for a plant-based version that maintains the decadent taste.
• Low-Sugar Option: Substitute granulated and brown sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia, reducing overall sugar content while keeping the intense chocolate and peanut butter profile.
• Nutty Alternative: Incorporate chopped almonds or walnuts into the batter for extra crunch and depth of flavor, creating a more textured brownie experience.

How To Present Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownie Bars

• Sweet Dessert Companion: Serve these decadent brownies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a rich, indulgent experience that balances the intense chocolate and peanut butter flavors.
• Party Platter Presentation: Create an elegant dessert display by cutting the bars into bite-sized squares and arranging them on a decorative platter with fresh berries or mint leaves for a pop of color.
• Coffee Break Delight: Pair these brownies with a hot espresso or cappuccino to enhance the deep chocolate notes and provide a luxurious afternoon treat that complements the rich, creamy texture.
• Gifting Gourmet Option: Wrap individual bars in parchment paper and tie with a rustic twine for a homemade gift that showcases your baking skills and spreads delicious joy to friends and family.

Storing Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownie Bars Safely

• Store brownies in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Keep them covered with plastic wrap or parchment paper to prevent drying out and absorbing other refrigerator odors.
• Wrap individual brownie bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Keep covered at room temperature for 2-3 days if your kitchen is cool and dry. Place in a sealed container away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
• Warm brownies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds on medium power. Alternatively, place in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes to restore their soft, gooey texture.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownie Bars Recipe

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4.9 from 35 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 16 1x

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Description

Irresistible chocolate peanut butter brownie bars deliver pure dessert magic with rich layers of fudgy goodness. Chocolate and peanut butter lovers will find comfort in this simple yet indulgent treat that promises sweet satisfaction in every delectable bite.

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Ingredients

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Chocolate Base:

• 1 cup (226 grams) unsalted butter
• 8 ounces (226 grams) semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• 1 1/4 cups (250 grams) granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup (165 grams) light brown sugar, packed
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup (125 grams) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (25 grams) cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Peanut Butter Layer:

• 1 1/2 cups (384 grams) creamy peanut butter
• 1/4 cup (30 grams) powdered sugar

Chocolate Topping:

• 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream
• 8 ounces (226 grams) dark chocolate, chopped

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven to 350°F and arrange a parchment paper lining in a 9×13-inch baking pan for easy removal.
2. Combine butter and semi-sweet chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl, melting in short intervals and stirring until completely smooth and glossy.
3. Create a sugar base by whisking granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract into a homogeneous mixture with consistent texture.
4. Integrate the melted chocolate into the sugar mixture, blending thoroughly until the batter appears uniform and glossy.
5. Gently incorporate flour, cocoa powder, and salt into the chocolate mixture, folding carefully to maintain a light texture without overmixing.
6. Distribute half the brownie batter evenly across the prepared pan, ensuring a smooth and level surface.
7. Craft a peanut butter layer by blending peanut butter and powdered sugar until completely smooth and free of lumps.
8. Delicately deposit spoonfuls of peanut butter mixture across the initial brownie layer, creating a marbled effect.
9. Cover the peanut butter layer with remaining brownie batter, spreading gently to create a complete top layer.
10. Bake for 30-35 minutes, checking doneness with a toothpick that should emerge with minimal moist crumbs.
11. Prepare ganache by heating cream until it simmers, then removing from heat and introducing dark chocolate, allowing it to melt and create a silky sauce.
12. Allow brownies to cool slightly, then generously pour ganache over the top, ensuring even coverage.
13. Let ganache set completely before cutting into individual bars for serving.

Notes

• Ensure chocolate and butter are melted gently to prevent burning, using short microwave intervals and stirring frequently.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with almond or gluten-free flour blend, maintaining the same measurement.
• Create a marbled effect by swirling peanut butter layer with a knife before adding final brownie batter, adding visual appeal and extra flavor complexity.
• Cool brownies completely before cutting to achieve clean, precise edges and prevent crumbling, allowing ganache to set at room temperature for best texture.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 16
• Calories: 354 kcal
• Sugar: 26 g
• Sodium: 107 mg
• Fat: 27 g
• Saturated Fat: 11 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 29 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 7 g
• Cholesterol: 62 mg