Peanut Butter Stuffed Brookies Recipe

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Introduction

Peanut Butter Stuffed Brookies are an indulgent dessert that combines the best of both worlds: rich, fudgy brownies and soft, chewy chocolate chip cookies. With a creamy peanut butter filling sandwiched between the two layers, these brookies are an irresistible treat that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Perfect for parties, special occasions, or just because, this dessert is sure to impress and delight everyone who tries it.

Overview of the Recipe

This recipe involves three layers: a decadent brownie base, a creamy peanut butter filling, and a soft, chocolate chip cookie topping. Each layer is easy to prepare, and when combined, they create a dessert that is both visually appealing and incredibly delicious. The brookies are baked in a 9×13-inch pan and then cut into squares for serving.

Servings: 12
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Calories per Serving: 450 kcal

Ingredients

For the Brownie Layer:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and moisture to the brownie base.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the brownies and helps create a fudgy texture.
  • 2 large eggs: Provides structure and binds the ingredients together.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the brownies.
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Gives the brownies their deep, chocolatey flavor.
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Adds structure to the brownies.
  • 1/4 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor.
  • 1/4 tsp baking powder: Helps the brownies rise slightly, creating a fudgy but not too dense texture.

For the Cookie Layer:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides a rich and tender base for the cookies.
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a chewy texture.
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Adds moisture and a deeper flavor to the cookies.
  • 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds structure.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the cookie dough.
  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the cookies.
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and become chewy.
  • 1/2 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
  • 1 cup chocolate chips: Adds chocolatey goodness to the cookie layer.

For the Peanut Butter Filling:

  • 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter: The star of the filling, providing a creamy, nutty layer.
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the peanut butter filling, making it easier to spread.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Brownie Layer

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup melted butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, 2 large eggs, and 1 tsp vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
  • Add 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp baking powder to the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
  • Spread the brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking dish, using a spatula to ensure it reaches all corners.

2. Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling

  • In a separate bowl, combine 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter and 1/4 cup powdered sugar. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
  • Drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter mixture over the brownie batter. Gently spread it out using a spatula or the back of a spoon to create an even layer.

3. Prepare the Cookie Layer

  • In another mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup softened butter, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup packed brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
  • Beat in 1 large egg and 1 tsp vanilla extract until well combined.
  • Gradually add 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 tsp baking soda, and 1/2 tsp salt, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
  • Stir in 1 cup of chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
  • Drop spoonfuls of the cookie dough over the peanut butter layer, gently spreading it out to cover the peanut butter as much as possible. It’s okay if some of the peanut butter layer peeks through.

4. Bake

  • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with just a few crumbs attached. The top should be golden brown.
  • Once baked, remove the brookies from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before cutting into squares. This cooling time helps the layers set and makes them easier to slice.

5. Serve

  • Once cooled, cut the brookies into squares and serve. They can be enjoyed warm for a gooey texture or at room temperature for a firmer bite.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

Peanut Butter Stuffed Brookies are rich and decadent, making them perfect for pairing with simple accompaniments:

  • Glass of Milk: The classic pairing for cookies and brownies, a cold glass of milk helps balance the richness of the brookies.
  • Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a warm brookie square with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
  • Coffee or Hot Chocolate: A hot cup of coffee or cocoa complements the sweet, chocolatey flavors of the brookies.

Variations of the Recipe

This recipe can be easily customized to suit different tastes:

  • Nutty Brookies: Add chopped peanuts or walnuts to the peanut butter filling for extra crunch.
  • Chocolate Lovers: Use dark chocolate chips or a combination of chocolate chunks and chips for a more intense chocolate flavor.
  • Salted Caramel Brookies: Drizzle caramel sauce over the peanut butter layer before adding the cookie dough, and sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt before baking.
  • Gluten-Free Brookies: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the brookies gluten-free.

Health Benefits and Notes

While these brookies are an indulgent treat, they do offer some nutritional benefits:

  • Peanut Butter: Rich in protein, healthy fats, and vitamins, peanut butter adds a nutritional boost to these brookies.
  • Customizable: You can adjust the sugar content or use whole grain flour to make a slightly healthier version of this dessert.

FAQs

Q: Can I use natural peanut butter in this recipe?
A: Yes, but make sure to mix it well before using, as natural peanut butter tends to separate. The filling may be slightly less sweet and more fluid, so you may need to adjust the powdered sugar to achieve the desired consistency.

Q: Can I make these brookies ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! These brookies can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. They also freeze well—just wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I use a different nut butter?
A: Yes, almond butter or cashew butter can be used in place of peanut butter for a different flavor profile.

Q: How should I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover brookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.

Q: What if my cookie layer is browning too quickly?
A: If the cookie layer starts to brown too quickly while baking, cover the pan loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning while the center continues to cook.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Stuffed Brookies are the ultimate dessert for chocolate and peanut butter lovers. With their rich layers of fudgy brownie, creamy peanut butter, and soft chocolate chip cookie, these brookies are sure to satisfy any sweet craving. Whether you’re making them for a party, a special treat, or just because, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Enjoy the decadent combination of flavors and textures that make these brookies an unforgettable indulgence!

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