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Brownies with Creamy Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe

4.4 from 85 reviews

Deliciously rich and fudgy brownies topped with a creamy peanut butter frosting and a decadent chocolate drizzle. These brownies combine the deep chocolate flavor of cocoa and chocolate chunks with the nutty sweetness of peanut butter, creating a perfect treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Brownies

  • 10 tablespoons unsalted butter (cubed)
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup light brown sugar
  • ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon instant coffee granules
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • 2 large eggs (cold)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • ⅔ cup all purpose flour
  • ½ cup chocolate chunks or chocolate chips
  • walnuts (optional)

Peanut Butter Frosting

  • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup creamy peanut butter
  • 2¼ cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Chocolate Drizzle

  • ¼ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Prepare Pan and Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9 or 8×8 inch baking pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper and lightly grease it using cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
  2. Browning the Butter: Place the cubed unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Cook it, stirring often, until the butter turns a light brown or caramel color, which takes about 5 to 10 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning. Using a light-colored pan helps monitor the color.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients: Pour the browned butter into a large mixing bowl. Add the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, cocoa powder, salt, instant coffee granules, and baking powder. Stir well until combined, then let the mixture rest and cool for about 5 minutes.
  4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Stir in the cold eggs and vanilla extract until the batter takes on a shiny, smooth appearance.
  5. Incorporate Flour and Chocolate: Gently fold in the all-purpose flour and chocolate chunks or chips. Be careful not to overmix to maintain a tender crumb.
  6. Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  7. Cooling: Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, lift them out using the foil or parchment paper for easier cutting.
  8. Make Peanut Butter Frosting: In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the softened butter and creamy peanut butter together on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, then mix until smooth and free of lumps.
  9. Frost the Brownies: Spread the peanut butter frosting evenly over the cooled brownies.
  10. Prepare Chocolate Drizzle: Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips either in a small saucepan over low heat or in the microwave using 15-second intervals, stirring in between until fully melted. Transfer the chocolate to a small ziplock bag, snip a tiny corner off, and drizzle the melted chocolate over the frosted brownies.
  11. Serve: Cut the brownies into 9 squares and serve. Enjoy your rich, peanut butter-topped chocolate brownies!

Notes

  • Using cold eggs helps the batter develop a nice sheen.
  • Instant coffee granules enhance the chocolate flavor without adding a coffee taste.
  • Optional walnuts can be added for extra texture and flavor.
  • Ensure the butter is browned carefully to avoid burning, which can cause bitterness.
  • Do not overmix the batter after adding flour to keep the brownies fudgy and tender.
  • Allow brownies to cool completely before frosting to prevent frosting from melting.
  • The chocolate drizzle adds an extra elegant touch; alternatively, skip it for a simpler topping.

Keywords: brownies, peanut butter frosting, chocolate brownies, fudgy brownies, dessert, chocolate dessert, easy brownies, homemade brownies, peanut butter chocolate dessert