Lower Sugar or Low-Calorie Option:
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Use a sugar substitute like monk fruit sweetener or erythritol in place of both granulated and brown sugars.
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Choose a low-sugar peanut butter or almond butter for the filling.
Nut-Free Option:
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Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or soy nut butter.
These substitutions make it easy to enjoy the indulgence of peanut butter brownies no matter your dietary preference.
How to Prepare the Perfect Stuffed Peanut Butter Brownies: Step-by-Step Guide
Let’s walk through the exact steps to make these luscious, gooey brownies filled with creamy peanut butter. Whether you’re baking solo or with kids, this is a fun and rewarding dessert to make.
First Step: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy lifting later.
Second Step: Mix the Dry Ingredients
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
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1 1/4 cups flour
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1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
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1 teaspoon kosher salt
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This ensures even distribution of the dry elements and prevents clumping.
Third Step: Prepare the Wet Base
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In a separate bowl, whisk together:
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1 cup hot melted butter
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1/4 cup canola oil
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1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
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1 cup brown sugar
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Mix for about 1 minute until smooth. The hot butter helps dissolve the sugars slightly, contributing to that glossy, crackly brownie top.
Fourth Step: Add Eggs and Vanilla
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Add 4 large eggs and 1 tablespoon vanilla extract to the sugar-butter mix.
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Whisk for another 2 minutes until the mixture is thick and glossy.
This step is crucial for achieving that rich, gooey texture.
Fifth Step: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
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Slowly add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients.
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Stir with a spatula or whisk just until incorporated—do not overmix.
You should have a thick, velvety brownie batter at this stage.
Sixth Step: Layer the Batter and Peanut Butter
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Pour half the brownie batter into your prepared pan and spread evenly.
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Use a cookie scoop to dollop 2 1/2 cups of creamy peanut butter over the batter.
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Gently spread the peanut butter into a smooth, even layer using a spatula or butter knife.
Seventh Step: Top with Remaining Batter
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Spoon the remaining brownie batter over the peanut butter layer.
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Gently spread it out to cover the peanut butter completely. A rubber spatula works best here.
Eighth Step: Bake the Brownies
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Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes.
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The center should be slightly gooey, and a toothpick inserted in the edge should come out mostly clean.
Ninth Step: Cool and Serve
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Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 1 hour.
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Use the parchment overhang to lift them out and slice into 16 squares.
Serve at room temperature, or warm them slightly and top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent treat.
Mastering Stuffed Peanut Butter Brownies: Advanced Tips and Variations
Want to take your peanut butter brownie game to the next level? Try these expert tips and creative twists:
1. Swirl Effect
Instead of layering the peanut butter, dollop it on top and swirl with a knife before baking for a marbled visual effect.
2. Add Chocolate Chips
Mix in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips or chunks into the batter for extra gooeyness and texture.
3. Use Crunchy Peanut Butter
If you like a little crunch, swap out creamy peanut butter for a chunky version.
4. Brown Butter Base
For a nutty, complex flavor, brown the butter before using it in the batter.
5. Top with Sea Salt
Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top of the brownies right after baking to enhance flavor and balance the sweetness.
How to Store Stuffed Peanut Butter Brownies: Best Practices
These brownies store exceptionally well, making them a great make-ahead dessert.
Room Temperature:
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Store in an airtight container at room temp for up to 3 days.
Refrigeration:
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For longer shelf life, refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 1 week. The brownies will firm up but stay moist.
Freezing:
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Freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap, then place in a zip-top bag.
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They’ll keep for up to 3 months.
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To thaw, leave at room temp for an hour or microwave for 15-30 seconds.
Nutritional Value of Stuffed Peanut Butter Brownies
Here’s a breakdown of approximate nutrition per serving (based on 16 servings):
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Calories: 420
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Fat: 28g
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Saturated Fat: 11g
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Carbohydrates: 38g
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Sugar: 26g
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Protein: 7g
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Fiber: 3g
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Sodium: 210mg
These stuffed peanut butter brownies are undeniably indulgent, but with the right substitutions (such as lower sugar or using almond butter), you can tweak them to better suit your dietary needs.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Stuffed Peanut Butter Brownies
Can I use natural peanut butter in this recipe?
Yes, but be aware that natural peanut butter tends to be runnier and less stable, which can affect the structure and layering. Stir well before using and consider chilling it briefly to firm up.
What’s the best way to cut clean brownie slices?
Allow the brownies to cool completely, then use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between cuts for neat edges.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap in a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for structure.
How do I make these brownies dairy-free?
Use plant-based butter and double-check your cocoa powder and chocolate are dairy-free. You can also use a vegan egg replacer.
Can I add other fillings besides peanut butter?
Definitely! Try using Nutella, cookie butter, almond butter, or even a layer of jam for a fruity twist.
With this complete guide, you’re fully equipped to bake the most indulgent, crowd-pleasing stuffed peanut butter brownies imaginable. Whether you’re serving them warm with ice cream or enjoying them straight from the fridge, these brownies are the kind of treat that makes memories. Ready to bake a batch? Let the chocolatey peanut butter magic begin!