Indulge in the decadent combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter with these Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownie Bars. This dessert is a perfect treat for chocolate lovers and peanut butter enthusiasts alike, offering layers of fudgy brownie topped with a smooth peanut butter filling and finished with a glossy chocolate ganache.
Ingredients:
For the Brownie Layer:
- 1 cup unsalted butter: Provides richness and moisture to the brownies.
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped: The base of the chocolate flavor, melted into the batter.
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the brownie layer and contributes to its chewy texture.
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed: Adds a subtle molasses flavor and extra moisture.
- 4 large eggs: Helps bind the ingredients and gives structure to the brownies.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, sweet aroma.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the necessary structure for the brownies.
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder: Intensifies the chocolate flavor and adds richness.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
For the Peanut Butter Layer:
- 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter: The star of the peanut butter layer, providing a smooth and creamy texture.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the peanut butter filling and helps it set.
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- 1 cup heavy cream: Adds richness and smoothness to the ganache.
- 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped: Creates a rich, glossy topping with a deep chocolate flavor.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Brownie Layer:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
- In a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler, melt the 1 cup of unsalted butter and 8 oz of semi-sweet chocolate together, stirring until smooth and fully combined. Set aside to cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar and 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar.
- Add the 4 large eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the 2 tsp vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix in the melted chocolate and butter mixture until well incorporated.
- Sift the 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup cocoa powder, and 1/2 tsp salt into the wet ingredients. Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
2. Bake the Brownies:
- Bake the brownies in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake, as you want the brownies to remain fudgy.
- Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
3. Prepare the Peanut Butter Layer:
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter and 1/4 cup powdered sugar. Stir until smooth and well combined.
- Once the brownies are completely cool, spread the peanut butter mixture evenly over the top, creating a smooth layer. Place the pan in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the ganache.
4. Make the Chocolate Ganache:
- In a small saucepan, heat the 1 cup heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Be careful not to let it boil.
- Remove the cream from the heat and pour it over the 8 oz chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until the chocolate is fully melted and the ganache is smooth and glossy.
- Pour the ganache over the peanut butter layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
5. Chill and Serve:
- Place the pan back in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, or until the ganache is set and firm.
- Once set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownie slab out of the pan. Place it on a cutting board and slice it into bars.
6. Enjoy:
- Serve the Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownie Bars chilled or at room temperature. These bars are rich and indulgent, making them a perfect treat for special occasions or whenever you’re craving something sweet.
Tips for Success:
- Use Good Quality Chocolate: The quality of chocolate you use will greatly affect the flavor of the brownies and ganache. Choose a good-quality semi-sweet and dark chocolate for the best results.
- Don’t Overbake the Brownies: To keep the brownies fudgy, it’s important not to overbake them. Check for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.
- Chill Between Layers: Chilling the brownie layer before adding the peanut butter mixture helps the layers stay distinct and makes it easier to spread the peanut butter evenly.
Why You’ll Love These Brownie Bars:
- Rich and Fudgy: The combination of a rich brownie base, creamy peanut butter, and a smooth chocolate ganache makes these bars irresistibly decadent.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re making them for a party, a potluck, or just as a treat for yourself, these bars are sure to impress.
- Easy to Make: Despite their luxurious taste, these bars are relatively simple to make, with straightforward ingredients and steps.
These Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownie Bars are a dream come true for anyone who loves the combination of chocolate and peanut butter. With a fudgy brownie base, a creamy peanut butter layer, and a luscious chocolate ganache topping, these bars are the ultimate indulgence. Perfect for any occasion, they’re sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Enjoy every rich, decadent bite!
