Irresistibly Delicious Three-Layer Brownies Recipe
Indulge in the decadence of these Three-Layer Brownies, a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of dark chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and luscious cream cheese frosting into a mouthwatering treat that is sure to impress. This recipe is one of the few that I prepare using pre-packaged mixes and canned ingredients, but don’t let that fool you; the final result is a stunning dessert that tastes like it took hours of labor. This scrumptious treat tends to vanish almost as quickly as it appears on the table, making it a popular choice for gatherings and special occasions. With a little persistence and some time spent pet-sitting, I was fortunate enough to acquire this coveted recipe from a neighbor who was known for her exceptional baking skills. Her brownies were always in high demand, and it’s no surprise why.
Before diving into the recipe, it’s important to note that for optimal results, you should use dark chocolate brownie mix—do not substitute it with regular or fudge mixes, as this can significantly alter the flavor profile. To achieve the best texture and taste, I highly recommend preparing these brownies the night before serving, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and the texture to set perfectly.
Recipe Overview
| Recipe Name | Three-Layer Brownies |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 45 minutes |
| Recipe Category | Bar Cookie |
| Serving Size | 18 servings |
| Aggregated Rating | ★★★★★ (5/5 based on 6 reviews) |
| Calories per Serving | 385 |
| Keywords | Dessert, Cookie & Brownie, < 60 Mins, For Large Groups, Oven |
Nutritional Information
| Nutritional Element | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 385 |
| Total Fat | 19.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5 g |
| Cholesterol | 20.8 mg |
| Sodium | 185.3 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 48.5 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.8 g |
| Sugars | 37.3 g |
| Protein | 5.1 g |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dark chocolate brownie mix | 1 package |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Water | ⅓ cup |
| Peanut butter chips | ½ cup |
| Cream cheese frosting | 1 container |
Instructions
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Prepare the Brownie Base: Begin by preparing the dark chocolate brownie mix according to the instructions on the package. Typically, this will involve combining the mix with eggs and water, blending them until smooth, and pouring the batter into a prepared baking dish. Ensure that the dish is greased or lined with parchment paper to facilitate easy removal once baked.
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Add Peanut Butter Layer: Once the brownies are baked to perfection (you’ll want to check for a toothpick to come out mostly clean), remove them from the oven. Immediately sprinkle the peanut butter chips over the surface of the brownies while they are still hot. Cover the pan with a cookie sheet to allow the heat to melt the chips for about five minutes. After this time, uncover the brownies and use a spatula to spread the melted peanut butter chips evenly across the surface.
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Cool the Brownies: Allow the brownies to cool to a temperature where the peanut butter layer is set but not solidified. If you find that the peanut butter chips are still too soft to handle, place the brownies in the refrigerator for a few minutes to help them firm up.
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Frost the Brownies: Once cooled sufficiently, take your cream cheese frosting and spread it generously over the top of the peanut butter layer. This frosting adds a delightful creaminess and a tangy flavor that beautifully complements the rich brownie and peanut butter.
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Allow Flavors to Meld: For the best results, let the frosted brownies sit at room temperature, uncovered, overnight. This step allows the flavors to blend harmoniously while allowing the top of the frosting to dry out slightly, creating a lovely crust that enhances the overall texture.
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Serve and Enjoy: The next day, cut the brownies into squares and serve them at room temperature. These brownies are not just visually appealing; they also offer a delightful mix of textures—from the fudgy brownie base to the creamy frosting and the occasional crunch of peanut butter chips. Trust me, once you set these on the table, they will disappear in no time!
Final Thoughts
These Three-Layer Brownies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a potluck, or simply a sweet treat for yourself. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the use of pre-packaged ingredients, making it accessible for even the novice baker. Each bite offers a delightful explosion of flavors that your friends and family will rave about. With a preparation time of just 15 minutes and a total cooking time of 30 minutes, you can whip up this stunning dessert with ease, leaving you plenty of time to enjoy the company of your guests. So go ahead, indulge in this easy yet impressive dessert, and watch as it earns its rightful place as a family favorite!
Additional Tips
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Storage: To keep your brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. You can also refrigerate them for extended freshness, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving to enjoy the best flavor and texture.
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Variations: Feel free to experiment with different toppings. Chopped nuts, mini chocolate chips, or even a drizzle of caramel can elevate these brownies further.
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Presentation: For a lovely presentation, consider serving the brownies on a decorative platter and garnish with a few extra peanut butter chips or a dusting of cocoa powder.
With these tips and instructions, you’re all set to create a mouthwatering dessert that is sure to please!
