Fudgy Brownies with Peanut Butter

Are you a fan of rich, fudgy brownies with a creamy peanut butter twist? These indulgent Fudgy Brownies with Peanut Butter will satisfy your chocolate and peanut butter cravings in one bite! Perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth or impressing guests at your next gathering, these brownies are sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• ½ cup chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Melt the Butter:
   In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, stir in the sugar, cocoa powder, and salt until smooth. Remove from heat.
3. Add the Eggs:
   Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until combined.
4. Fold in the Flour:
   Gently fold in the flour until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to maintain the fudgy texture.
5. Layer the Batter:
   Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly across the bottom.
6. Add Peanut Butter:
   Drop spoonfuls of peanut butter over the brownie layer and gently spread it out to create a creamy layer.
7. Top with Remaining Batter:
   Pour the remaining brownie batter over the peanut butter layer and smooth the top with a spatula.
8. Bake:
   Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
9. Cool and Serve:
   Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. Enjoy the fudgy goodness with a glass of milk or a scoop of ice cream for an extra treat!

Additional Tips:

• Add a Twist: For an extra layer of flavor, consider mixing in some chopped nuts or swirling in additional chocolate chips.
• Storage: Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
• Serving Suggestion: These brownies pair wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

FAQs About Fudgy Brownies with Peanut Butter

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
   Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to maintain the balance of flavors.
2. What type of cocoa powder is best?
   Unsweetened cocoa powder is ideal for these brownies to keep them rich and chocolatey.
3. Can I substitute the peanut butter?
   You can use almond butter or any nut butter you prefer, but the flavor will vary slightly.
4. How do I know when the brownies are done?
   The brownies should be set around the edges with a slight jiggle in the center. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
5. Can I freeze these brownies?
   Yes! Cut the cooled brownies into squares and freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.

These Fudgy Brownies with Peanut Butter are the ultimate dessert for chocolate lovers! With their rich, gooey texture and creamy peanut butter layer, they are sure to delight your taste buds. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this delicious dessert that combines two beloved flavors in every bite!