Imagine sinking your teeth into the most decadent, rich, and mind-blowing dessert that combines the irresistible magic of chocolate brownies with creamy peanut butter - a combination that will make your taste buds dance with pure joy! These Peanut Butter Fudge Brownie Bars are not just a dessert; they're a culinary experience that transforms an ordinary day into a celebration of flavor and texture. Whether you're a passionate baker or a chocolate enthusiast looking for the perfect treat, this recipe promises to deliver a slice of pure indulgence that will have everyone begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter
- 2 cups sugar
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with butter or line with parchment paper, ensuring some overhang for easy removal.
- In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter completely. Use 30-second intervals, stirring between each to ensure even melting.
- Add sugar to the melted butter and whisk vigorously until well combined and slightly lighter in color, about 2-3 minutes.
- Crack eggs into the butter-sugar mixture one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition to create a smooth, homogeneous batter.
- Incorporate vanilla extract and mix well. Then add peanut butter and stir until fully integrated.
- In a separate bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt to remove any lumps.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the brownies tender.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform thickness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center - it should come out with a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan for about 1 hour. The brownies will continue to set as they cool.
- Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan. Cut into 16 equal squares using a sharp knife.
- For best flavor and texture, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.
Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better texture.
- Don't Overmix: When combining dry and wet ingredients, mix just until incorporated to keep brownies tender and fudgy.
- Pan Preparation: Use parchment paper with overhang for easy removal and clean cutting of bars.
- Toothpick Test: For the perfect fudgy consistency, remove brownies when the toothpick has a few moist crumbs, not completely clean.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow brownies to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean, neat squares.
- Storage Hack: For maximum freshness, store in an airtight container and consume within 5 days.
- Optional Enhancements: Consider adding chocolate chips or a drizzle of melted peanut butter on top for extra decadence.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 9g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 95mg
