Luscious Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies

Dive into the decadent world of brownies with a twist of creamy peanut butter filling that perfectly complements the rich chocolate batter.

Ingredients:

For the Peanut Butter Filling:

• 1 ⅓ cups creamy peanut butter
• ½ cup powdered sugar, sifted for smoothness

For the Brownie Batter:

• 5.30 oz unsalted butter
• 7 oz high-quality dark chocolate, broken into pieces
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 1 additional egg yolk
• ⅔ cup all-purpose flour

Instructions:

1. Preparation:
   • Heat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a 9×9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Peanut Butter Filling:
   • In a medium bowl, blend peanut butter with powdered sugar until it forms a smooth, spreadable mixture. Set aside.
3. Brownie Batter:
   • In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine butter and dark chocolate. Melt in the microwave or use a double boiler method, then let it cool slightly.
   • Into this chocolate mixture, whisk in granulated sugar, sifted cocoa powder, kosher salt, and vanilla extract until well mixed.
   • Beat in eggs and the extra yolk until the mixture is thoroughly combined.
   • Gently fold in the flour until it’s just incorporated, taking care not to overmix and maintain the fudginess.
4. Assemble and Bake:
   • Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan, leveling with a spatula.
   • Carefully add the peanut butter layer over the brownie base, spreading it to cover evenly.
   • Dollop the remaining brownie batter on top, smoothing it out to completely cover the peanut butter layer.
   • Bake for 30-40 minutes—just until set but still slightly underdone for gooey brownies.
   • Allow to cool in the pan for about an hour before slicing to get clean cuts.

Notes:

• Use ingredients at room temperature, especially eggs, to ensure a smooth brownie batter.
• Avoid overmixing once the flour is added; mix just enough to combine for tender brownies.
• Measure flour using the spoon-and-level method for accurate results and to prevent dense brownies.
• Resist the temptation to cut into the brownies immediately; letting them cool ensures they set properly.
• If you desire moist, fudgy brownies, err on the side of underbaking rather than overbaking.

Indulge in these peanut butter brownies that promise a balance between the salty nuttiness of peanut butter and the indulgent chocolatey goodness of the classic dessert.