Peanut Butter Brownie Bars

Okay, hear me out. You ever take a bite of something so rich, so chocolatey, so peanut-buttery… you just pause? Yeah, that’s what happened to me with these Peanut Butter Brownie Bars.

I was craving something sweet but also kinda bold. Something with a gooey bite and a little salty swirl. So I went for it—and wow.

The fudgy brownie meets creamy peanut butter like it’s meant to be. It’s easy, no fancy steps. Just mix, swirl, bake, and boom—bliss in every bite.

Let me show you how I made them. You’re seriously gonna want to save this one.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate and peanut butter is irresistible.
• Easy to Make: No complicated techniques—just simple steps for a show-stopping dessert.
• Perfect Texture: Fudgy brownies, creamy peanut butter, and smooth chocolate topping in every bite.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: These bars store well, making them a great option for parties or meal prep.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Ideal for bake sales, gatherings, or just treating yourself!

Required Kitchen Tools

• 8×8-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Hand or stand mixer
• Microwave or double boiler
• Parchment paper
• Rubber spatula

Ingredients

For the Brownies:

• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, chopped
• 4 oz (115g) dark chocolate, chopped
• 2 large eggs, lightly whisked
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup (90g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 pinch of salt

For the Peanut Butter Filling:

• 4 oz (110g) cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup (190g) creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Topping:

• 8 oz (225g) dark chocolate, chopped
• 2 tbsp butter

Variations for Peanut Butter Brownie Bars

• Crunchy Peanut Butter: Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
• Nut-Free Option: Swap peanut butter for almond butter or sunflower seed butter.
• Salted Caramel Twist: Drizzle salted caramel over the peanut butter layer before adding the chocolate topping.
• Extra Chocolatey: Stir chocolate chips into the brownie batter for double the chocolate goodness.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Brownie Base

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and dark chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. Let cool slightly.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract until combined.
4. Pour the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture and whisk until smooth.
5. Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gently fold with a spatula until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
8. Let the brownies cool completely before adding the next layer.

2. Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling

1. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and peanut butter until smooth.
2. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and mix until creamy and well combined.
3. Spread the peanut butter filling evenly over the cooled brownies.
4. Place in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to set.

3. Make the Chocolate Topping

1. Melt the dark chocolate and butter together in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
2. Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer, spreading evenly with a spatula.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour or until the chocolate topping is firm.

4. Slice and Serve

1. Once fully set, remove from the pan and cut into bars.
2. Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container.

Serving and Decoration

How to Serve Peanut Butter Brownie Bars

• As a Dessert: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• With Coffee: A perfect treat alongside your morning coffee or latte.
• For Special Occasions: Serve at parties, bake sales, or family gatherings.
• Drizzle & Toppings: Garnish with chopped peanuts, sea salt flakes, or a drizzle of melted peanut butter.

Storing Peanut Butter Brownie Bars

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep in the fridge for up to 1 week for a firmer texture.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Let thaw at room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Information (Per Bar)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	320
Carbs	32g
Protein	5g
Fat	20g
Sugar	22g
Fiber	3g

Peanut Butter Brownie Bars FAQs

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes! Milk chocolate will make the bars sweeter and less intense.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! Use a 9×13-inch pan and adjust the baking time slightly.

Do I have to use cream cheese in the peanut butter layer?

No, you can omit it, but the texture will be less creamy.

How do I cut clean, even bars?

Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each cut.