Imagine sinking your teeth into a decadent brownie bar that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and peanut butter, topped off with a delightful crunch from chopped peanuts. These Peanut Butter Chocolate Brownie Bars are not just a treat; they’re an experience. Perfect for bake sales, family gatherings, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these bars are bound to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Why You’ll Keep Making It
Once you try these Peanut Butter Chocolate Brownie Bars, it’s hard to resist making them over and over again. The combination of creamy peanut butter and luscious chocolate is a match made in dessert heaven. They have a chewy texture that pairs perfectly with the nutty crunch of peanuts, making each bite an adventure. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to whip up, requiring simple pantry staples that you probably already have on hand. It’s a dessert that’s sure to please both chocolate lovers and peanut butter fanatics alike!
What Goes In
To create these delightful brownie bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons (160g) creamy peanut butter – The star ingredient that brings rich flavor and creaminess.
- 1 cup (190g) packed light brown sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture.
- 1 large egg, plus 2 large egg yolks – Acts as a binding agent for the bars.
- 3/4 cup (105g) all-purpose flour – Provides structure to the brownies.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the bars rise.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.
- 1 cup (150g) salted or candied peanuts, coarsely chopped – Adds crunch and flavor.
- 11 tablespoons (150g) unsalted butter, at room temperature – Ensures a rich texture.
- 1 cup (85g) Dutch-process cocoa powder – Infuses the bars with deep chocolate flavor.
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar – For added sweetness.
- 1/2 cup (95g) packed light brown sugar – Enhances the overall flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – To bring out the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth.
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature – Adds richness.
- 1/2 cup (70g) all-purpose flour – For the brownie mixture.
Equipment Breakdown
Before you start baking, make sure you have the following equipment:
- Mixing bowls – For combining the ingredients.
- Whisk – To ensure everything is well combined.
- Spatula – For folding in the dry ingredients.
- 8×8-inch baking pan – The perfect size for these brownie bars.
- Parchment paper – To line the baking pan for easy removal.
- Oven – Essential for baking the bars to perfection.
Make Peanut Butter Chocolate Brownie Bars: A Simple Method
Follow these easy steps to create your delicious Peanut Butter Chocolate Brownie Bars:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine the unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Use a whisk or electric mixer to cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add the Eggs and Peanut Butter
Add the large egg and egg yolks to the butter mixture, followed by the creamy peanut butter and vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
Step 5: Fold in the Peanuts
Carefully fold in the chopped salted or candied peanuts until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 6: Bake the Brownie Bars
Pour the brownie mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Allow the brownie bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment overhang. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing into bars.
Spring to Winter: Ideas
These Peanut Butter Chocolate Brownie Bars can be enjoyed year-round with a few variations:
- In the spring, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and fresh berries for a refreshing dessert.
- During summer, pair them with a cold glass of milk or a summer fruit smoothie.
- In the fall, add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a seasonal twist.
- Winter is perfect for warming them up and drizzling with Chocolate Buttercream Frosting for an indulgent treat.
Behind-the-Scenes Notes
Creating these bars is more than just following a recipe; it’s about enjoying the process. Here are some tips for success:
- Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Don’t overmix the batter; it should be just combined for the best texture.
- Feel free to experiment with different nuts or even chocolate chips for added flavor.
- For an extra touch, consider adding a layer of Chocolate Cupcakes With Peanut Butter Frosting on top.
Freezer-Friendly Notes
These Peanut Butter Chocolate Brownie Bars are perfect for freezing! Here’s how:
- Once cooled completely, slice the bars into squares.
- Wrap each square individually in plastic wrap or foil.
- Place the wrapped bars in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months.
- To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for a few seconds.
Reader Q&A
Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy peanut butter?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but be aware that it may alter the texture slightly. Natural peanut butter tends to be more oily, so you may need to adjust the amount of flour to maintain the right consistency.
Can I substitute the eggs in this recipe?
For a vegan version, you can substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) or an egg replacer. Keep in mind that this may slightly change the texture of the bars.
What’s the best way to store leftover brownie bars?
Store the brownie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze them as mentioned above.
Can I add chocolate chips to the brownie batter?
Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips will enhance the chocolate flavor and add a delightful gooey texture. Just fold in about 1/2 cup of chocolate chips when you mix in the chopped peanuts.
Similar Recipes
If you loved these Peanut Butter Chocolate Brownie Bars, you might also enjoy:
- Chocolate Mousse Brownies Or Best Brownies Ever
- Chocolate Buttercream Frosting
- Chocolate Cupcakes With Peanut Butter Frosting
Bring It to the Table
These Peanut Butter Chocolate Brownie Bars are more than just a dessert; they’re a way to bring people together. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them during a cozy night in, they are sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy some of the best brownie bars you will ever make!
Share on Pinterest
Peanut Butter Chocolate Brownie Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Use a whisk or electric mixer to cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add the large egg and egg yolks to the butter mixture, followed by the creamy peanut butter and vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
- Carefully fold in the chopped salted or candied peanuts until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour the brownie mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
- Allow the brownie bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment overhang. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing into bars.
Notes
- Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Don’t overmix the batter; it should be just combined for the best texture.
- Feel free to experiment with different nuts or even chocolate chips for added flavor.
