Indulge in these decadent Peanut Butter Cup Swirl Brownies, which blend rich, dark chocolate with the creamy, savory taste of peanut butter. This recipe combines the classic fudgy texture of brownies with the delightful surprise of peanut butter cups and a peanut butter swirl, making each bite a perfect balance of flavors. These brownies are not only packed with chocolate and peanut butter but also feature a crispy top and gooey center, destined to satisfy all your dessert cravings.
Why You'll Love This: The combination of Dutch process cocoa and melted dark chocolate provides a deep, intense chocolate base, which perfectly complements the sweet and salty peanut butter filling. The addition of espresso powder enhances the chocolate flavor, adding a layer of complexity that coffee and chocolate enthusiasts will appreciate. The mini peanut butter cups provide bursts of peanut butter flavor and a satisfying texture contrast.
Perfect Occasion: These brownies are perfect for any gathering, from casual get-togethers to more festive occasions like birthday parties or family celebrations. They're also great for bake sales, potlucks, or as a special treat to brighten someone's day.
Decoration Tips: For an eye-catching presentation, drizzle melted chocolate and a bit of melted peanut butter over the cooled brownies. A sprinkle of sea salt can also enhance the flavors and add a gourmet touch.
Ingredients:
For the Brownies:
- 2 eggs, room temperature
- 1 egg yolk, room temperature
- ¾ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 5 ½ ounces unsalted butter
- ¼ cup Dutch process cocoa powder
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 4 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ cup light brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- ¼ teaspoon espresso powder
- 1 cup mini peanut butter cups, chopped
For the Peanut Butter Filling:
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of kosher salt
Instructions:
- Prepare the Brownie Batter:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8x8 inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and kosher salt.
- In a large jug, combine the eggs, egg yolk, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, espresso powder, and vanilla extract.
- Melt the butter and dark chocolate together over a double boiler until smooth. Whisk in the cocoa powder until fully incorporated.
- Combine the egg mixture with the melted chocolate mixture, then fold in the flour mixture until just combined, ensuring no flour pockets remain.
- Fold in most of the chopped peanut butter cups, reserving some for topping.
- Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling:
- Briefly microwave the peanut butter to soften. Mix with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Dollop the peanut butter filling over the batter and use a knife to swirl it through.
- Sprinkle the reserved peanut butter cups on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is crackly and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Let cool in the pan on a wire rack before slicing into squares.
Enjoy these luxurious Peanut Butter Cup Swirl Brownies, a treat that combines the best of both worlds with its rich chocolatey depth and creamy peanut butter highlights!
