Decadent Peanut Butter Frosted Brownies are an indulgent treat that combines the rich, fudgy texture of a classic brownie with a luscious layer of creamy peanut butter frosting. When you first bite into one, your taste buds are immediately met with the deep flavors of dark chocolate and peanut butter coming together in perfect harmony. The somewhat chewy and dense brownie base is elevated by the sweet, silky layer of frosting, which is an irresistible pairing that is hard to beat. Once you make these brownies, you’ll wonder why you ever settled for anything less.

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My introduction to these decadent delights was during a family gathering when my aunt arrived with a batch that quickly disappeared. Everyone was raving about them, and I knew I had to get the recipe for myself. These brownies are not just a dessert; they’re a crowd-pleaser and the perfect way to satisfy that sweet tooth craving. They’re incredibly easy to whip up and are sure to impress anyone you serve them to. So why not give these Decadent Peanut Butter Frosted Brownies a try and share the joy they bring?

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Decadent Peanut Butter Frosted Brownies
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Decadent Peanut Butter Frosted Brownies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: With just 20 minutes of prep time and about 47 minutes to bake, this recipe is a breeze.
Irresistible Flavor: The rich chocolate brownie paired with creamy peanut butter frosting offers a taste experience that is nothing short of heavenly.
Eye-Catching Appeal: These brownies not only taste amazing but also look fun and inviting, making them perfect for any occasion.
Flexible Serving: They make a great snack, a lovely treat for parties, or even a sweet breakfast emergency to fuel your day.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable, you can make gluten-free or dairy-free versions, if needed!

Ingredients You’ll Need

1/2 cup all-purpose flour: The foundation for our brownies; it gives them structure. You can substitute with gluten-free flour if desired.
1/4 cup Dutch-process cocoa powder: This variety provides a rich, deep chocolate flavor. Regular cocoa works in a pinch, but the taste will vary slightly.
Pinch of espresso powder (optional): It enhances the chocolate flavor without making these brownies taste like coffee.
1/2 cup salted butter: Adds moisture and richness. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
5 oz dark chocolate, chopped: This will make your brownies fudgy and add a luxurious depth of flavor. Use a high-quality chocolate for the best results.
3/4 cup brown sugar, packed: Brown sugar adds moisture and a lovely chewiness. Feel free to use light or dark brown sugar based on what you have on hand.
1/4 cup granulated sugar: It balances the flavors and adds sweetness.
1 large egg + 1 egg yolk (room temperature): These act as binders, providing richness and helping the brownies rise.
1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a warm, sweet flavor that complements the chocolate.
1/3 cup salted butter, softened: Used for creating the peanut butter frosting. Softened butter mixes better than chilled.
7 tablespoons smooth peanut butter: Creamy peanut butter lends its distinct flavor to the frosting and is essential for that perfect topping.
1 3/4 cups powdered sugar, sifted: This gives the frosting its smooth texture. Sift to remove lumps for easy mixing.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Also used in the frosting for that luscious flavor kick.
2 – 3 tablespoons heavy cream: For the frosting, this helps achieve the perfect spreadable consistency; adjust based on your desired thickness.

How to Make Decadent Peanut Butter Frosted Brownies

Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 pan with parchment paper, letting it hang over two sides for easy removal later.
Melt Chocolate and Butter: In a heatproof bowl, melt the salted butter and chopped dark chocolate together. Heat in short bursts in the microwave, stirring in between, until it’s smooth and glossy.
Combine with Sugars: After melting, stir in the brown sugar, followed by the granulated sugar. This step is crucial for that perfect sweetness and texture. Once mixed, whisk in the large egg and yolk until combined, then add the vanilla extract. Your batter should be thick and glossy.
Add Dry Ingredients: Sift the Dutch-process cocoa powder into your bowl and add the all-purpose flour and a pinch of espresso powder if using. Gently fold everything until just combined, making sure there are no flour streaks left.
Pour and Bake: Finally, pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 25-27 minutes; the top should set while the center remains a bit soft and a toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs.
Cool Completely: Once baked, let the brownies cool completely in the pan. I know waiting can be tough, but it’s essential to ensure they hold their shape when frosted.
Make the Frosting: While the brownies cool, make the frosting. Beat the softened salted butter until smooth, then mix in the smooth peanut butter until creamy.
Combine with Sugar: Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar in batches, starting with one cup and alternating with a splash of heavy cream until you achieve a soft, spreadable consistency.
Frost the Brownies: Lift the cooled brownies from the pan using the parchment overhang. Spread the frosting evenly over top, swirling it for a decorative finish.
Top with Goodies: For that extra touch, consider adding chopped peanuts, mini chocolate chips, or a drizzle of melted chocolate on top. Slice with a sharp knife and enjoy those clean edges!

Storing & Reheating

After enjoying your decadent treats, store any leftovers at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. You can refrigerate them for a week, but be mindful that it may change the texture slightly. If you want to freeze them, wrap the brownies tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To refresh after freezing, simply let them thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for about 15 seconds.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overmixing the batter, as this can lead to tough brownies. Mix just until combined.
Make sure your eggs are at room temperature so they blend more easily with the other ingredients.
For perfectly cut brownies, use a sharp knife and wipe the blade clean between cuts to maintain those clean edges.
Experiment with different toppings like crushed cookies or chocolate sprinkles for a fun twist.
If you prefer a thicker frosting, simply add more powdered sugar until your desired consistency is reached.

Decadent Peanut Butter Frosted Brownies are sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Quick, simple, and utterly delicious, they are perfect for any occasion or just a cozy night in. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or indulging solo, these brownies will bring a smile to anyone lucky enough to enjoy them. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the baking begin!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter can add a delightful texture to the frosting, giving each bite an extra crunch. Just keep in mind that smooth peanut butter creates a creamier consistency.

How do I know when the brownies are done?

The brownies are done when the top looks set but the center is still slightly soft. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs, not completely clean. This ensures fudginess.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes, you can! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Ensure any other additional ingredients, like chocolate, are also gluten-free.

What’s the best way to cut brownies?

To cut them neatly, allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. Use a sharp knife, and for those perfect squares, wipe the knife clean between cuts to eliminate any sticky residue.

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