Peanut Butter-Fudge Brownies

Peanut Butter-Fudge Brownies Recipe - Delicious Homemade Treat

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Peanut Butter-Fudge Brownies are a decadent and rich dessert that combines the flavors of peanut butter and chocolate in a fudgy brownie. These brownies are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

History

The exact origins of Peanut Butter-Fudge Brownies are unclear, but it is believed that the combination of peanut butter and chocolate in a brownie recipe became popular in the United States in the mid-20th century. This delicious twist on a classic brownie recipe has since become a favorite among dessert lovers everywhere.

Ingredients

oil or butter for the pan (if it's not non-stick)
0.5 cup (1 stick) softened butter
1 cup peanut butter
1 cup (packed) light brown sugar
4 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup unbleached white flour
0.25 tsp salt (if using unsalted peanut butter)
1.25 cup semisweet chocolate chips
0.5 cup minced peanuts

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Lightly grease a 9x13 inch pan (unless using a nonstick pan).
In a medium-large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer on high speed to cream together the butter, peanut butter, and sugars.
Lower the speed to medium and add the eggs one at a time, along with the vanilla, beating well after each addition.
Stir in the remaining ingredients by hand until everything is evenly blended.
Pour the batter into the greased pan and bake on the center oven rack for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the top feels firm and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cut the brownies while still hot, but let them cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before serving.
The brownies can be served warm, cold, or at room temperature.

Variations

Add a swirl of caramel sauce on top of the brownie batter before baking for a caramel peanut butter flavor.
Mix in chopped nuts or chocolate chunks for added texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use a good quality peanut butter for the best flavor in these brownies.

- Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in tough brownies.

- For an extra fudgy texture, slightly underbake the brownies and allow them to cool completely before cutting.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Peanut Butter-Fudge Brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a glass of cold milk for a classic dessert combination.

Cooking Techniques

Use an electric mixer to cream together the butter, peanut butter, and sugars for a smooth and creamy batter.

- Be sure to use a toothpick to test for doneness when baking the brownies.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use almond butter or sunflower seed butter as a substitute for peanut butter for a nut-free version.

- Substitute gluten-free flour for the white flour to make these brownies gluten-free.

Make Ahead Tips

Peanut Butter-Fudge Brownies can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Sprinkle the top of the brownies with additional chopped peanuts or a dusting of cocoa powder for a decorative touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Peanut Butter-Fudge Brownies with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of red wine for a delicious dessert pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Peanut Butter-Fudge Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave for a few seconds until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Peanut Butter-Fudge Brownies contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Peanut Butter-Fudge Brownies contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Peanut Butter-Fudge Brownies contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Peanut Butter-Fudge Brownies contains approximately 5 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Peanut Butter-Fudge Brownies are not a significant source of essential vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

Peanut Butter-Fudge Brownies contain peanuts, eggs, and dairy.

Summary

Peanut Butter-Fudge Brownies are a delicious treat that is relatively high in calories and fats. Enjoy them in moderation as an occasional indulgence.

Summary

Peanut Butter-Fudge Brownies are a rich and indulgent dessert that combines the flavors of peanut butter and chocolate in a fudgy brownie. Enjoy them as a special treat for any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Peanut Butter-Fudge Brownies. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret for our weekly coffee date. As we sat at her cozy kitchen table sipping our drinks, she pulled out an old, tattered recipe book from the cupboard.

"I have a new recipe to share with you today, dear," Margaret said with a twinkle in her eye. "It's for Peanut Butter-Fudge Brownies, and I think you're going to love it."

I couldn't contain my excitement as Margaret read out the ingredients and directions for the decadent dessert. Peanut butter and chocolate were two of my favorite flavors, and the thought of them combined in a rich, fudgy brownie was enough to make my mouth water.

After jotting down the recipe in my own notebook, Margaret and I set to work in her kitchen, mixing and measuring the ingredients with care. The aroma of chocolate and peanut butter filled the room as the brownies baked in the oven, and I knew this recipe would become a staple in my own collection.

From that day on, I made Peanut Butter-Fudge Brownies for every special occasion – birthdays, holidays, and even just because. Each time I baked them, I thought of Margaret and the special bond we shared over our love of cooking and baking.

Over the years, I continued to collect recipes from friends, family, and cookbooks, each one adding to my repertoire of dishes I could prepare with love and care. But the Peanut Butter-Fudge Brownies remained a favorite, always bringing back memories of that sunny day in Margaret's kitchen.

As I grew older, I passed down the recipe to my own children and grandchildren, sharing the joy and comfort that comes from a homemade treat made with love. I taught them the importance of following a recipe with precision, but also the freedom to experiment and make it their own.

One day, my granddaughter asked me where I had learned to make the Peanut Butter-Fudge Brownies. I smiled as I thought back to Margaret and our shared love of baking.

"I learned this recipe from a dear friend many years ago," I told her. "She showed me how a simple dessert can bring people together and create lasting memories."

My granddaughter nodded, her eyes wide with wonder. "I want to learn how to make them too, Grandma. Will you teach me?"

And so, I passed on the recipe once again, this time to a new generation eager to carry on the tradition of delicious, homemade treats. As we measured out the ingredients and stirred the batter together, I knew that the legacy of the Peanut Butter-Fudge Brownies would live on for years to come.

As I watch my granddaughter take a bite of the warm, gooey brownie, a smile spreads across her face. I can see the joy and satisfaction in her eyes, and I know that she has learned more than just a recipe – she has learned the power of food to bring people together and create cherished memories.

And as I sit back and savor my own brownie, I am filled with gratitude for the friends, family, and recipes that have enriched my life. The Peanut Butter-Fudge Brownies will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the love and connection that can be shared through a simple, homemade dessert.