Ingredients
Scale
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup softened butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang on the sides. This allows you to lift the bars out easily once they cool. Lightly grease the parchment with non-stick spray for extra insurance.
- In a medium bowl, whisk the melted butter and granulated sugar until well combined. Add the egg and vanilla, beating until the mixture looks smooth. Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Fold the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined. Spread this batter evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan.
- In a small bowl, stir together the creamy peanut butter and powdered sugar until it forms a thick, spreadable paste. Drop small dollops of this mixture over the brownie batter. Use a knife to gently swirl it slightly, or leave the dollops as “pockets” of peanut butter for a stuffed effect.
- In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla. Gradually mix in the flour and baking soda. Fold in the chocolate chips. Instead of spreading the dough, flatten small pieces of it with your hands and lay them across the peanut butter layer until the brownies are mostly covered.
- Place the pan in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The edges should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs. Do not overbake! Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out and slicing. This ensures the layers set properly and creates that fudgy texture.
- Cook Time: 55 minutes