Peanut Butter Cookie Brownies

If you’re a fan of rich, fudgy brownies and creamy peanut butter cookies, then you’re in for a treat with these Peanut Butter Cookie Brownies! This recipe combines two beloved desserts into one irresistible creation that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft brownie topped with a layer of irresistible peanut butter cookie dough. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a potluck, or just for yourself, these Peanut Butter Cookie Brownies are sure to impress.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

• Decadent Layers: The rich brownie base paired with the sweet and creamy peanut butter cookie dough creates a delightful contrast.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Treat: Serve them warm with a scoop of ice cream for dessert, or enjoy them as a sweet snack any time of the day.
• Family Favorite: These brownies are sure to become a hit with kids and adults alike!

Ingredient Breakdown

• Peanut Butter Cookie Dough:
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup salted butter, softened (or unsalted with 1/8 teaspoon salt)
  • 1/4 cup peanut butter
  • 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons unbleached all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• Brownie Batter:
  • 1/3 cup (1 ounce) cocoa (Dutch-processed recommended)
  • 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons boiling water
  • 2 ounces unsweetened chocolate, chopped fine
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs plus 2 large yolks
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 1/2 cups sugar
  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

What You’ll Need (Gear)

• 9×13 inch baking pan – for baking the brownies
• Mixing bowls – to combine your ingredients
• Whisk or electric mixer – for mixing the batter
• Rubber spatula – to fold the ingredients together
• Parchment paper – for easy removal of the brownies

Make Peanut Butter Cookie Brownies: A Simple Method

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your brownies bake evenly and come out perfectly fudgy.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. This will help you lift the brownies out of the pan without sticking.

Step 3: Make the Peanut Butter Cookie Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and peanut butter. Mix until creamy. Add in the egg, and mix until combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined. Set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Brownie Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cocoa powder and boiling water. Stir until smooth. Add the chopped unsweetened chocolate and melted butter, mixing until everything is melted and well combined. In another bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until pale and fluffy. Gradually add the chocolate mixture into the egg mixture, stirring until combined. Slowly fold in the flour and salt until just combined.

Step 5: Layer the Brownies

Pour half of the brownie batter into your prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Next, dollop spoonfuls of the peanut butter cookie dough over the brownie layer. Use a spatula to gently spread the cookie dough to cover the surface, if desired. Pour the remaining brownie batter on top, spreading it evenly to cover the cookie dough.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake, as you want that fudgy texture.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, use the parchment overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan and cool completely on a wire rack. Cut into squares and enjoy your delicious Peanut Butter Cookie Brownies!

Make It Fit Your Plan

• Nut Allergies: Substitute the peanut butter with almond butter or sunbutter if you have nut allergies.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these brownies gluten-free.
• Lower Sugar Option: Consider using a sugar substitute or reducing the sugar content to fit your dietary needs.
• Vegan Option: Substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water = 1 egg) and use dairy-free butter and chocolate.

Author’s Commentary

As a passionate baker, I find joy in creating recipes that bring people together. These Peanut Butter Cookie Brownies are a labor of love that combines two of my favorite desserts. The rich, chocolaty brownie pairs so well with the creamy peanut butter cookie dough, making every bite an experience in indulgence. I hope you enjoy making these as much as I did, and that they bring smiles to everyone who gets to enjoy them!

Make-Ahead & Storage

Peanut Butter Cookie Brownies can be made ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment. Once completely cooled, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. These brownies taste just as delicious after freezing, making them a perfect make-ahead treat!

Reader Q&A

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful texture to the cookie dough, making the brownies even more interesting.

Do I need to use unsweetened chocolate in the brownie batter?

Yes, unsweetened chocolate is necessary for that rich chocolate flavor. If you only have semi-sweet chocolate, you can use it, but you may want to reduce the sugar slightly.

Can I add nuts to the brownie batter?

Definitely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would make a great addition to the brownie batter if you enjoy a little crunch in your brownies.

What can I serve with these brownies?

These brownies are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them by serving with vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or a sprinkle of sea salt for an added touch of flavor.

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In Closing

If you’re looking to indulge in a dessert that combines the best of both worlds, these Peanut Butter Cookie Brownies are the answer. With their rich brownie base and creamy peanut butter cookie topping, they are a crowd-pleaser that no one can resist. Perfect for sharing or savoring on your own, these brownies will quickly become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Happy baking!