Peanut Butter Cup Brownies Recipe

Imagine biting into rich, fudgy brownies swirled with creamy peanut butter cups for a melt-in-your-mouth delight that feels like a celebration in every square. This Peanut Butter Cup Brownies Recipe delivers just that—a perfect balance of chocolate intensity and peanut butter sweetness that will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether you’re sharing with friends or just treating yourself, these brownies promise a joyful experience one bite at a time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting these brownies just right starts with straightforward ingredients that work harmoniously to create irresistible flavor, texture, and that classic deep chocolate color. Each component plays a crucial role, from the melt-in-your-mouth butter to the surprise pockets of peanut butter cups.

• 1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and tenderness to hold everything together perfectly.
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds rich, deep chocolate flavor without overpowering sweetness.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Gives the brownies a slight lift, keeping them from feeling too dense.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the chocolate while balancing the sweetness for a rounded taste.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted: Brings buttery richness and moisture for a smooth, fudgy texture.
• 2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the brownies while also contributing to their chewy edges.
• 4 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add to the luscious crumb.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Brightens the chocolate flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Create melty pockets of chocolate throughout that complement the peanut butter cups.
• 16 mini peanut butter cups or 8 standard peanut butter cups, halved: The star of the show, lending pockets of creamy, salty-sweet goodness in every bite.

How to Make Peanut Butter Cup Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Baking Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. The parchment overhang will be a helpful handle for lifting the brownies straight out once cooled, ensuring clean edges and easy serving.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients before adding them to the wet mixture helps distribute the leavening and cocoa evenly, preventing clumps and ensuring consistent flavor.

Step 3: Mix Wet Base

In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar. Whisk until the mixture is glossy and smooth, signaling a luscious base that will make these brownies beautifully moist and chewy.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This step helps build structure and richness. Then, stir in the vanilla extract to add depth and a subtle sweetness that perfectly complements the chocolate and peanut butter.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be gentle—overmixing can make the brownies tough, so stop when you no longer see flour.

Step 6: Add Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips. These babies melt beautifully during baking, giving delightful bursts of chocolate that balance the rich peanut butter.

Step 7: Layer First Batter

Spread half of the brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan. Getting an even layer here ensures the peanut butter cups have a perfect place to nestle.

Step 8: Add Peanut Butter Cups

Arrange the peanut butter cups evenly over the batter layer. This step infuses the brownies with creamy, dreamy surprises that will melt into the batter as they bake.

Step 9: Top with Remaining Batter

Spoon the rest of the batter over the peanut butter cups, smoothing the top with a spatula to completely cover the candy. This seals in all those delicious treasures for baking.

Step 10: Bake Brownies

Bake for 28 to 32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Perfect timing ensures fudgy brownies with just the right hint of gooiness around the peanut butter cups.

Step 11: Cool and Cut

Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. Once cold, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the slab out and slice into 16 squares. Each piece is guaranteed to deliver that perfect blend of chocolate and peanut butter.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Cup Brownies Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top just after baking to elevate the sweetness and add an irresistible contrast. For an extra festive touch, drizzle with melted peanut butter or a quick chocolate glaze.

Side Dishes

Serve these brownies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh strawberries for a lovely balance of warm and cool sensations. A hot cup of coffee or creamy milk also pairs wonderfully, enhancing every indulgent bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut brownies into bite-sized squares and skewer them with decorative picks for a fun party treat. Or layer broken pieces into a dessert parfait with whipped cream and chopped nuts to impress guests with style and flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps the brownies stay soft and moist without drying out, maintaining their rich texture and peanut butter pockets.

Freezing

Wrap brownies tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing to prevent freezer burn. Frozen brownies can last for up to 3 months, making them an excellent make-ahead treat ready to thaw for anytime cravings.

Reheating

Warm brownies gently in the microwave for about 15 seconds or until soft and melty, but avoid overheating to prevent dryness. This quick reheat revives the gooey peanut butter cups for that fresh-from-the-oven experience.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter cups instead of mini ones?

Absolutely! You can halve standard-sized peanut butter cups just like mini ones. They will add the same creamy, chocolatey pockets throughout your brownies, just with slightly larger bites of peanut butter goodness.

Is there a way to make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes, swapping the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup works well. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binder to keep the texture fudgy and satisfying.

Can I substitute butter with oil?

While butter adds rich flavor and a tender crumb, you can use an equal amount of neutral vegetable oil for a slightly different texture. Keep in mind the flavor will be less buttery but still deliciously moist.

Do I have to use semi-sweet chocolate chips?

Nope! Feel free to use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate chips depending on your flavor preference. Each will bring a unique twist that complements the peanut butter cups beautifully.

How do I know when the brownies are perfectly baked?

Insert a toothpick in the center—if it comes out with a few moist crumbs clinging to it, your brownies are fudgy and done. If it comes out wet with batter, give them a few more minutes; dry means they might be overbaked.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug wrapped in rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter, this Peanut Butter Cup Brownies Recipe is your new best friend. With its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a joy to bake and impossible not to love. Treat yourself and your loved ones—you deserve every decadent bite!

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