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Peanut Butter Chocolate Brookies Recipe

Imagine biting into a deliciously rich, chewy, and fudgy brownie, but wait, there's more! The surprise doesn't end at the brownie. It's layered with a moist and soft peanut butter cookie dough, creating an irresistible fusion that satisfies both your brownie and cookie cravings at once. Combining two classic desserts, peanut butter chocolate brookies offer the best of both worlds!

Peanut Butter Chocolate Brookies Recipe
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Photos of Peanut Butter Chocolate Brookies Recipe

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The ingredients for this recipe are fairly common and can be found in most kitchens. However, if you do not have unsweetened cocoa powder and dark chocolate chips at home, you might need to pick them up from the supermarket. These two ingredients are essential in giving the brownie layer its delectable chocolaty flavor. Also, ensure you have creamy peanut butter for the cookie layer. The creamy variant blends well with the other ingredients, providing a smooth texture and rich peanut flavor.

Peanut Butter Chocolate Brookies Ingredients

Unsalted butter: Adds richness and depth to the brownie base. It also helps with the texture, making it soft and fudgy.

White sugar: Sweetens the brownies while balancing out the bitterness of the cocoa powder.

Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors in both the brownies and the cookie layer.

Eggs: They provide structure and stability to the dough and batter.

Unsweetened cocoa powder: Gives the brownies their classic, rich chocolate flavor.

Salt: Balances the sweetness while subtly enhancing the overall flavor.

All-purpose flour: The primary structure for the brownies and cookies, giving them their shape and texture.

Dark chocolate chips: Add chunks of chocolate for a melty, gooey texture in the brownies.

Vegetable oil: Used in the cookie dough for a moist and tender texture.

Sugar: Sweetens the cookie layer.

Creamy peanut butter: Gives the cookies their distinct peanut butter flavor.

Flour: Provides structure to the peanut butter cookies.

Baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and spread.

Salt: Enhances the flavors in the cookie dough.

One reader, Aldo Puckett says:

star icon star icon star icon star icon star icon

This peanut butter chocolate brookies recipe is a game-changer! The combination of rich, fudgy brownies and chewy peanut butter cookies is pure bliss. The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the texture is divine. It's a must-try for all dessert lovers!

Aldo Puckett

Essential Techniques for Perfect Peanut Butter Chocolate Brookies

How to prepare brownie layer: Mix melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla in a large bowl, then add cocoa powder, salt, flour, and chocolate chips. Spread the batter in a greased 9x13-inch baking pan and bake for 20 to 25 minutes.

How to prepare peanut butter cookie layer: Whisk together vegetable oil, sugar, eggs, vanilla, and peanut butter in a bowl. Add flour, baking soda, and salt, then mix until combined. Drop chunks of the cookie dough over the brownie layer and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until set.

How to cool brookies: Allow the brookies to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares for serving.

How To Make Peanut Butter Chocolate Brookies

These peanut butter chocolate brookies are a combination of creamy peanut butter cookies and chocolatey brownies! Bake up a batch in less than an hour.

Preparation: 25 minutes
Cooking: 30 minutes
Total: 55 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Brownies Layer:

  • ¾cupunsalted butter,melted
  • cupswhite sugar
  • 2tspvanilla extract
  • 3eggs
  • ¾cupunsweetened cocoa powder
  • ¾tspsalt
  • cupsall-purpose flour
  • ¾cupdark chocolate chips

For Peanut Butter Cookie Layer:

  • ½cupvegetable oil
  • 1cupsugar
  • 2eggs
  • tspvanilla extract
  • ½cupcreamy peanut butter
  • 2cupsflour
  • 1tspbaking soda
  • ½tspsalt

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease or use baking spray on a 9×13-inch baking pan.

Brownies Layer:

  1. In a large bowl, add the melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla, then whisk together until well combined.

  2. Add the cocoa powder and salt to the bowl, then mix well.

  3. Add in the flour and chocolate chips, then mix until just combined.

  4. Using a spatula, pour the batter into the bottom of the pan, then spread.

  5. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes.

Peanut Butter Cookie Layer:

  1. Add the vegetable oil, sugar, egg, vanilla, and peanut butter to a bowl, then whisk well for about 1 minute.

  2. Add the flour, baking soda, and salt, then whisk until combined.

  3. Using a large spoon or hands, drop chunks of peanut butter cookie dough gently over the brownie layer.

  4. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the dough is just set and not jiggly.

  5. Cool completely before cutting, serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

  • Calories: 259.05kcal
  • Fat: 12.74g
  • Saturated Fat: 4.81g
  • Trans Fat: 0.21g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 5.58g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.51g
  • Carbohydrates: 34.13g
  • Fiber: 1.76g
  • Sugar: 21.87g
  • Protein: 3.82g
  • Cholesterol: 36.56mg
  • Sodium: 138.28mg
  • Calcium: 14.92mg
  • Potassium: 108.95mg
  • Iron: 1.31mg
  • Vitamin A: 47.23µg

One Simple Technique for Elevating Your Brookie Game

When preparing the peanut butter cookie dough, it's important to not overmix the ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a tougher cookie texture. Instead, mix just until the flour is incorporated. This will ensure your brookies have a tender, soft texture. Also, when layering the cookie dough over the brownie batter, be gentle and try to distribute it evenly. This will result in a balanced flavor and texture in every bite.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Delicious Brookies

Prep ahead: Prepare the brownie and cookie doughs in advance and refrigerate them until ready to use. This can save time on the day of baking.

Use parchment: Line the baking pan with parchment paper, which makes it easier to lift the brookies out of the pan for cutting and serving.

One-bowl method: Opt for recipes that use a one-bowl method for both the brownie and cookie layers to minimize cleanup and save time.

Chill the dough: Chill the assembled brookie dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before baking to prevent excessive spreading and ensure a more defined layering.

Room temperature ingredients: Ensure that the eggs, butter, and other dairy ingredients are at room temperature before starting the recipe to expedite the mixing process.

Substitute Ingredients For Peanut Butter Chocolate Brookies Recipe

  • unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can provide a similar richness and flavor to the brookies while also adding a hint of coconut flavor.

  • white sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a 1:1 replacement for white sugar and adds a subtle caramel-like flavor to the brookies.

  • unsweetened cocoa powder - Substitute with cacao powder: Cacao powder is a healthier alternative to cocoa powder and can provide a richer, more intense chocolate flavor to the brookies.

  • dark chocolate chips - Substitute with vegan chocolate chips: Vegan chocolate chips can be used to make the brookies dairy-free while still providing a rich chocolate flavor.

  • vegetable oil - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can be used as a healthier alternative to vegetable oil, adding moisture and a subtle sweetness to the peanut butter cookie layer.

  • sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can be used as a natural sweetener in place of sugar, adding a unique flavor to the peanut butter cookie layer.

  • creamy peanut butter - Substitute with almond butter: Almond butter can be used as a substitute for peanut butter, providing a similar creamy texture and nutty flavor to the cookie layer.

How to Beautifully Present Your Homemade Brookies

  1. Elevate the plating: When presenting the brookies, pay attention to the visual appeal. Use a clean, white plate to showcase the contrast between the brownie and cookie layers. The brookies should be placed neatly and precisely, ensuring each layer is visible.

  2. Garnish with finesse: Add a touch of sophistication by garnishing with a dusting of powdered sugar. This adds a delicate sweetness and a professional finish to the brookies.

  3. Incorporate a sauce drizzle: Create an chocolate or caramel sauce to drizzle elegantly around the brookies. The sauce not only enhances the flavor but also adds an artistic element to the presentation.

  4. Accompany with a side: Serve the brookies with a quenelle of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. This addition provides a complementary contrast in temperature and texture.

  5. Utilize edible flowers: Introduce a pop of color and a hint of floral fragrance by delicately placing edible flowers, such as rose petals or lavender, around the brookies. This elevates the presentation and adds a touch of elegance.

  6. Consider portioning: To showcase attention to detail, consider cutting the brookies into precise, uniform portions. This demonstrates precision and care in the presentation.

  7. Highlight with a sprinkle: A sprinkle of sea salt on top of the brookies enhances the flavor profile and adds a sophisticated touch to the presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Peanut Butter Chocolate Brookies

  • Oven: Used for baking and cooking food.
  • 9x13-inch baking pan: A rectangular pan used for baking brownies, cakes, and other desserts.
  • Whisk: Used for mixing and blending ingredients together.
  • Spatula: Used for spreading and smoothing batter in the baking pan.
  • Large spoon: Used for scooping and dropping cookie dough onto the brownie layer.
  • Baking spray: Used for greasing the baking pan to prevent sticking.
  • Mixing bowl: Used for mixing and combining ingredients for both the brownie and cookie layers.
  • Measuring cups and spoons: Used for accurately measuring ingredients.

The Ultimate Guide to Storing and Freezing Brookies

  • Allow the brookies to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent them from becoming soggy or sticking together.

  • To store the brookies, place them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Separate the layers with parchment paper or wax paper to prevent sticking. The brookies will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 5 days.

  • For longer storage, you can freeze the brookies. Wrap each brookie individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Label the container with the date and contents. Frozen brookies will keep for up to 3 months.

  • To thaw frozen brookies, remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about an hour. Alternatively, you can microwave individual brookies for 15-20 seconds until they're soft and warm.

  • If you prefer a slightly crispy texture, you can reheat thawed or room-temperature brookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.

  • Avoid storing the brookies in the refrigerator, as this can cause them to dry out and lose their texture. Room temperature or freezing are the best options for maintaining the quality of your peanut butter chocolate brookies.

The Best Methods for Reheating Leftover Brookies

  • To reheat leftover peanut butter chocolate brookies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the brookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and heat them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are warmed through and the chocolate chips are slightly melted. This method will help restore the texture and flavor of the brookies, making them taste almost as good as when they were freshly baked.

  • Another option is to use a microwave. Place the brookies on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high power for 15-20 seconds. If they aren't warm enough, continue heating them in 5-second intervals until they reach your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can cause the peanut butter cookie layer to become tough and rubbery.

  • For a crispy exterior and a soft, gooey interior, try reheating the brookies in a skillet. Place a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat and add the brookies. Cover the skillet with a lid and heat the brookies for 2-3 minutes, or until they are warmed through and the chocolate chips begin to melt. This method works particularly well if you enjoy a slightly crispy exterior on your brookies.

  • If you have an air fryer, you can also use it to reheat your leftover brookies. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the brookies in the basket, ensuring they aren't touching each other. Heat them for 2-3 minutes, or until they are warmed through and the edges are slightly crispy. This method is quick and easy, and it can help restore the texture of the brookies without drying them out.

Surprising Facts About Peanut Butter Chocolate Brookies

The brownie was created in the United States at the end of the 19th century and became popular in the 20th century. It is said to have been created by a chef who was baking a cake but didn't have enough flour, resulting in a denser, fudgier dessert. The brownie's name is believed to have come from its dark brown color. It's a delightful treat that combines the best of both worlds, with the richness of chocolate and the creaminess of peanut butter.

Is Making Peanut Butter Chocolate Brookies at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this peanut butter chocolate brookies recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of ingredients. While peanut butter and chocolate can be pricier, the recipe yields a large batch suitable for multiple servings, making it relatively cost-effective. The rich and decadent flavor profile, combined with the dual layers of brownie and peanut butter cookie, offers a delightful treat for dessert lovers. Rating: 9/10. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, making it a reasonable option for a special indulgence.

Are Peanut Butter Chocolate Brookies Healthy or Unhealthy?

This peanut butter chocolate brookie recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main reasons for this are:

  • High sugar content: The recipe calls for significant amounts of white sugar in both the brownie and peanut butter cookie layers, which can contribute to obesity, diabetes, and other health issues when consumed in excess.
  • Refined flour: All-purpose flour, used in both layers, is a refined carbohydrate that lacks fiber and essential nutrients found in whole grain alternatives.
  • High fat content: The recipe uses substantial amounts of butter and vegetable oil, which are high in saturated and trans fats, respectively. These types of fats can increase the risk of heart disease and other health problems when consumed in large quantities.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

  • Reduce the sugar content by using natural sweeteners like dates, applesauce, or mashed bananas in place of some or all of the white sugar.
  • Substitute whole wheat flour, oat flour, or almond flour for a portion of the all-purpose flour to increase the fiber and nutrient content.
  • Replace some of the butter with healthier fat sources like Greek yogurt, mashed avocado, or nut butters to reduce the saturated fat content.
  • Incorporate additional healthy ingredients such as chopped nuts, seeds, or dried fruits to boost the nutritional value and provide extra texture and flavor.
  • Cut the brookies into smaller portions to encourage mindful eating and portion control.

Our Editor's Honest Opinion on This Brookie Recipe

This peanut butter chocolate brookies recipe is a delightful combination of rich, fudgy brownies and chewy peanut butter cookies. The brownie layer is perfectly moist and chocolatey, while the peanut butter cookie layer adds a wonderful nutty flavor and texture. The contrast between the two layers creates a harmonious balance of sweetness and depth. The recipe's clear instructions make it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers. Overall, this brookies recipe is a decadent treat that is sure to impress and satisfy anyone with a sweet tooth.

Enhance Your Peanut Butter Chocolate Brookies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and chives, topped with a dollop of butter.
Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears lightly seasoned and grilled to perfection, with a squeeze of lemon juice for a burst of freshness.
Fruit Salad: A colorful medley of fresh fruits, including juicy strawberries, sweet pineapple chunks, and tangy kiwi slices, drizzled with a honey-lime dressing.
Chicken Alfredo Pasta: Al dente pasta smothered in a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce, with tender pieces of grilled chicken mixed in for a hearty and satisfying dish.

Delicious Alternatives to Peanut Butter Chocolate Brookies

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This creamy tomato basil soup is the perfect comfort food for a chilly evening. The combination of ripe tomatoes and fresh basil creates a rich and flavorful soup that will warm you up from the inside out.
Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon: This honey garlic glazed salmon is a delicious and healthy meal option. The sweet and savory glaze pairs perfectly with the tender and flaky salmon, creating a dish that is sure to impress your dinner guests.
Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: This mango coconut chia pudding is a refreshing and nutritious dessert option. The tropical flavors of mango and coconut combined with the health benefits of chia seeds make this pudding a guilt-free indulgence that you can enjoy any time of day.

Ideal Appetizers and Main Dishes to Complement Your Brookie Recipe

Appetizers:
Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms pairs perfectly with the rich and savory filling, making it a delightful start to any meal.
Crispy Zucchini Fritters: Whip up a batch of crispy zucchini fritters for a light and flavorful appetizer. The crispy exterior and tender interior of the fritters make them a delightful treat, especially when served with a tangy dipping sauce. It's a great way to showcase the fresh flavors of zucchini in a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Main Courses:
Chicken Alfredo: Create a creamy and indulgent pasta dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and flavorful Alfredo sauce. Serve it over your favorite pasta for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Beef Stir Fry: Whip up a quick and delicious stir fry using tender beef and a colorful array of vegetables. Toss everything in a savory sauce and serve over steamed rice for a flavorful and nutritious dinner option.

Why trust this Peanut Butter Chocolate Brookies Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a delightful treat, combining the richness of dark chocolate with the creamy goodness of peanut butter. The brownie layer offers a decadent, fudgy texture, while the peanut butter cookie layer adds a delightful contrast. The use of unsweetened cocoa powder and creamy peanut butter ensures a rich and authentic flavor. With a careful balance of sugar and vanilla extract, this recipe promises a harmonious blend of sweetness and depth. The result is a brookie that is sure to impress and satisfy any craving for a delectable dessert.

Share your thoughts on this delicious Peanut Butter Chocolate Brookies recipe in the Baking and Desserts forum section!
FAQ:
Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy peanut butter for the peanut butter cookie layer?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter instead of creamy peanut butter. Just make sure to stir the natural peanut butter well before using it in the recipe.
Can I use milk chocolate chips instead of dark chocolate chips for the brownie layer?
Absolutely! You can use milk chocolate chips instead of dark chocolate chips if you prefer a sweeter flavor in the brownie layer.
Can I use a different size baking pan if I don't have a 9x13-inch pan?
Yes, you can use a different size baking pan, but the baking time may vary. If you use a smaller pan, the layers will be thicker and may require a longer baking time. If you use a larger pan, the layers will be thinner and may require a shorter baking time.
Can I substitute the vegetable oil in the peanut butter cookie layer with another type of oil?
Yes, you can substitute the vegetable oil with canola oil or melted coconut oil in the peanut butter cookie layer. Just keep in mind that using different oils may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the cookies.
Can I add nuts to the brookies recipe?
Absolutely! You can add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to either the brownie layer, the peanut butter cookie layer, or both for an extra crunch and flavor. Just make sure to evenly distribute the nuts in the batter before baking.

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