Oh, peanut butter brownies! Where do I even begin? These little squares of heaven have a special place in my heart (and my belly)! I remember the first time I baked them—it was during a cozy rainy afternoon at my friend’s house. We decided a movie marathon required an equally comforting treat, and what better than brownies with a gooey peanut butter swirl? As soon as they came out of the oven, the warm aroma filled the kitchen and lured everyone in. It didn’t take long before they disappeared!
What I adore about these peanut butter brownies is the combination of rich, fudgy chocolate paired with creamy, nutty peanut butter; it’s like a dream come true for your taste buds! They strike the right balance between indulgence and a little bit of wholesome goodness, so you can enjoy them without too much guilt. Trust me, once you bake these, they could quickly become your go-to dessert for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a good old Netflix binge!
What’s in Peanut Butter Brownies?
Let’s dive into the star-studded lineup of ingredients for these delectable brownies!
Butter: This is where the magic begins! I always use unsalted butter to control the saltiness in my brownies. The flavor and texture it provides are just unbeatable.
Sugar: A combination of granulated sugar and brown sugar gives these brownies their sweetness and that moist, chewy texture we all love. Brown sugar also adds a hint of caramel flavor, yum!
Cocoa Powder: You can’t make brownies without cocoa powder! I prefer using high-quality unsweetened cocoa, which intensifies the chocolate flavor.
Eggs: Eggs help bind everything together and create that soft, gooey center. I use large eggs, and at room temperature for best results.
All-Purpose Flour: This helps to give structure to the brownies, making them wonderfully fudgy.
Peanut Butter: A must-have! I recommend using creamy peanut butter for that smooth swirl, but if you’re a crunchy fan, have at it!
Vanilla Extract: Just a splash of vanilla adds an extra layer of flavor. Always go for pure vanilla extract if you can; it makes a difference.
Is Peanut Butter Brownies Good for You?
Alright, let’s talk about the health aspects! First, let’s be real—these brownies are definitely a treat, not a health food. But they do have some redeeming qualities!
Peanut Butter: This ingredient is a source of protein and healthy fats. It helps to keep you feeling satisfied longer, which is a nice bonus for a dessert. Just keep in mind that moderation is key, as peanut butter is calorie-dense.
Butter and Sugar: Well, they’re not exactly what you’d call health-conscious! So if you’re looking to indulge, maybe save these delights for special occasions.
But here’s the thing: enjoying a sweet treat now and then isn’t detrimental—it’s all about balance! Bake a batch and share them with friends or family; you’ll spread the joy (and lessen the guilt).
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 large eggs, room temperature
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (or crunchy, your choice)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
This recipe serves about 9 hearty brownie squares.
How to Make Peanut Butter Brownies?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a large bowl, mix the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined.
3. Add in the eggs and vanilla extract. Mix until the mixture is nice and fluffy!
4. Sift in the cocoa powder and salt, and mix until just combined.
5. Gently fold in the all-purpose flour until no flour streaks remain. Do not over-mix!
6. Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Plop dollops of peanut butter all over the brownie batter. Then, using a knife or skewer, swirl the peanut butter into the brownie batter to create a marbled effect.
7. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, until the edges pull away from the pan and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
8. Let the brownies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then lift them out using the parchment paper. Cut into squares and enjoy!
Sweet Tips for Peanut Butter Brownies
– For that extra indulgent touch, consider adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the brownie batter!
– If you have a nut allergy or prefer a different flavor, you can swap the peanut butter with almond butter or even Nutella for a chocolate-hazelnut swirled version.
– Serve these brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. It’s a game-changer for dessert!
I can’t wait for you to try these delicious peanut butter brownies! There’s something magical about baking that fills the home with warmth and happiness. I’d love to hear how yours turn out, so don’t be shy—share your brownie photos and experiences! Happy baking!
