Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownie Bars
Delicious brownie bars combining rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter for a mouthwatering treat.
Ingredients
Brownie Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter for melting
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped for the brownie batter
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar for sweetness
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed for moisture
- 4 large eggs for binding
- 2 tsp vanilla extract for flavor
- 1 cup all-purpose flour for structure
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder for extra chocolate flavor
- 1/2 tsp salt to balance sweetness
Peanut Butter Layer
- 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter for the filling
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar to sweeten the peanut butter
Ganache Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream for the ganache
- 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped for the ganache topping
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and semi-sweet chocolate together in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Add the melted chocolate mixture to the sugar mixture and whisk until smooth.
- Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt, and fold until just combined.
- Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
Peanut Butter Layer
- In a separate bowl, mix the peanut butter and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter mixture over the brownie batter.
Assembly and Baking
- Pour the remaining brownie batter over the peanut butter layer and gently spread it to cover.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Making Ganache
- While the brownies are baking, heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
- Remove from heat and add the dark chocolate. Let sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth to create a ganache.
Finishing Touch
- Once the brownies are baked and slightly cooled, pour the ganache over the top, spreading it evenly.
- Let the ganache set before slicing into bars.
Notes
These bars are best served warm, topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Store in an airtight container and can be refrigerated or frozen for longer shelf life. Allow to cool completely before cutting for clean edges.