Chocolate Brownies with Peanut Butter Frosting
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 24 brownies
Recipe Description
Indulge in the rich and decadent flavor of these Chocolate Brownies with Peanut Butter Frosting, a perfect treat for any occasion. The brownie base is a blend of bittersweet chocolate and butter, resulting in a moist and dense texture. Topped with a luscious peanut butter frosting, it adds an irresistible creaminess and sweetness that pairs beautifully with the chocolatey goodness beneath. Whether you’re preparing for a family gathering or looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe from Love With Recipes will become a go-to dessert for your baking repertoire.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bittersweet chocolate | 5 oz |
| Unsalted butter | 4 oz |
| Granulated sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Large eggs | 1 1/2 |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Salt | 1/4 tsp |
| Creamy peanut butter | 1 cup |
| Unsalted butter (for frosting) | 3 oz |
| Powdered sugar | 2/3 cup |
| Vanilla extract (for frosting) | 1 tsp |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 223.5 kcal |
| Fat Content | 14.6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6.6 g |
| Cholesterol | 49.2 mg |
| Sodium | 87.5 mg |
| Carbohydrate | 21.8 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.7 g |
| Sugars | 16.9 g |
| Protein | 4.8 g |
Instructions
For the Brownies:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the baking pan: Line a 13x9x2 inch baking pan with aluminum foil, leaving about a 2-inch overhang on both short sides. This makes it easier to lift the brownies out later. Lightly spray the foil with nonstick cooking spray to ensure the brownies do not stick.
- Melt the chocolate and butter: In a small saucepan, combine the bittersweet chocolate and unsalted butter. Stir over low heat until both are completely melted and the mixture is smooth. Once melted, remove from heat and allow it to cool to a lukewarm temperature.
- Mix the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract on high speed. Continue beating until the mixture thickens and turns a pale yellow color, which should take about 5 minutes.
- Incorporate the dry ingredients: Reduce the mixer speed to low and beat in the flour and salt. Once fully combined, add the cooled chocolate mixture and mix until smooth and well combined.
- Bake the brownies: Transfer the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan. Spread the batter out evenly. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until a tester inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached (not wet batter). The brownies should feel firm but not overly dry.
- Cool the brownies: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack. Let the brownies cool for about 15 minutes. Then, gently press down on the edges to level them with the center. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
For the Peanut Butter Frosting:
-
Prepare the frosting mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and unsalted butter. Using an electric mixer, beat the two together until smooth and creamy.
-
Add powdered sugar and vanilla: Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the bowl and continue mixing until the frosting is well-blended and smooth. The frosting should be thick but spreadable.
-
Frost the brownies: Once the brownies have completely cooled, spread the peanut butter frosting evenly over the top using a spatula. Be sure to cover the surface completely for that perfect sweet-and-salty balance.
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Chill the brownies: Place the frosted brownies in the refrigerator and let them chill for at least 1 hour. This will help the frosting set and make the brownies easier to cut into squares.
-
Cut into squares: Once the frosting has firmed up, use the aluminum foil overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan. Cut them into 24 squares or smaller portions, depending on your preference. Enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Storage: Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months—just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.
- Customization: Feel free to add chopped nuts, such as peanuts or walnuts, to the brownie batter for an added crunch. You can also drizzle some chocolate syrup or caramel over the frosting for a fun twist.
- Peanut Butter Variety: You can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer a little more texture in your frosting.
This Chocolate Brownies with Peanut Butter Frosting recipe offers a perfect balance of richness from the chocolate and creaminess from the peanut butter, making it an ideal dessert for anyone with a sweet tooth. Whether you’re looking to impress at a party or treat yourself to a delicious homemade dessert, this easy recipe is sure to become a favorite. Happy baking from Love With Recipes!
