ChristmasClassic CakesHoliday

Peanut Butter Cup Stuffed Brookies

Updated on 6 min read

If you’re a fan decadent desserts, prepare to be delighted by a treat that perfectly marries two beloved favorites brownies and cookies. Enter the Peanut Butter Cup Stuffed Brookies—a delightful concoction that combines rich, fudgy brownie layers with soft, chewy cookies, all encasing a gooey peanut butter cup in the center. This dessert checks all the boxes for those craving a sweet indulgence. With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, the Peanut Butter Cup Stuffed Brookie is sure to enchant both your taste buds and your guests.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a special occasion, or simply have sweet tooth, these brookies will steal the show. They’re not just desserts; they’re a delightful experience—a warm, chocolatey hug wrapped around a creamy peanut butter surprise. Let’s dive into the ingredients, preparation steps, and creative variations to elevate your baking game!

Ingredients

To make your Peanut Butter Cup Stuffed Brookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Brownie Layer:

  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder

For the Cookie Layer:

  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup chocolate chips

Additional:

  • 12-16 mini peanut butter cups (depending on size)

Step-by-Step Directions for Preparation

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your brookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Grease an 8×8-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 3: Make the Brownie Layer

  1. Melt the Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the 1/2 cup of unsalted butter. Allow it to cool slightly.
  2. Mix Ingredients: Stir in the granulated sugar, followed by the eggs and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Don’t overmix!

Step 4: Make the Cookie Layer

  1. Cream the Butters: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy.
  2. Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until incorporated.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Stir in the chocolate chips.

Step : Assemble the Brookies

  1. Layer Brownie Batter: Spread half of the brownie batter evenly in the bottom of the prepared pan.
  2. Add Peanut Butter Cups: Place the mini peanut butter cups evenly across the brownie layer.
  3. Layer Cookie Dough: Carefully spread the cookie dough over the peanut butter cups, ensuring they’re fully covered.
  4. Top with Remaining Brownie Batter: Spoon the remaining brownie batter on top of the cookie layer, spreading it out gently.

Step 6: Bake

Bake your brookies in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into brownie layer comes out mostly clean (a few moist crumbs are okay). Avoid overbaking to keep them gooey!

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the brookies to cool in pan for about 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut them into squares and serve!

Serving and Storage Tips

  • Serving: These brookies are best served warm, just after baking, to enjoy that melty peanut butter cup. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!
  • Storage: Store leftover brookies in an airtight container at room for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Creative Variations on the Basic Recipe

  1. Reese’s Pieces Brookies: Instead of mini peanut butter cups, use Reese’s Pieces for a crunchy, peanut buttery twist.
  2. Nutella Swirl Brookies: Add dollops of Nutella on top of the brownie layer before baking. Swirl it in with a knife for a chocolate-hazelnut delight.
  3. Mint Chocolate Brookies: Incorporate mint chocolate chips into the cookie dough for a refreshing flavor. You can also use mint-flavored peanut butter cups.
  4. S’mores Brookies: Add crushed graham crackers and mini marshmallows to the brownie layer for a campfire-inspired treat.
  5. Salted Caramel Brookies: Drizzle some salted caramel sauce over the top before baking for a sweet and salty combination that elev the flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use different types of nut butter?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with almond butter, cashew butter, or any nut butter of your choice. Just keep in mind the consistency may vary slightly.

2. What can I do if I don’t have chocolate chips?

You can substitute chocolate chips with chopped chocolate bars, white chocolate chips, or even butterscotch chips for a different flavor profile.

3. How do I know when my brookies are done baking?

Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the brownie layer. It should come out with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter. If it comes out, they may be overbaked.

4. Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can make both the brownie and cookie dough a day in advance. Just store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

5. How can I enhance the chocolate flavor?

Add a teaspoon of instant coffee or espresso powder to the brownie batter to intensify the flavor without adding a coffee taste.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Cup Stuffed Brookies are not only a treat for the eyes but a genuine delight for the palate. This versatile dessert can adapt to tastes and preferences, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or explore creative variations, the joy of biting into a warm brookie with a gooey center is unmatched.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and dive into this scrumptious baking adventure. Your friends, family, and guests are sure to be impressed by your delicious creation. Happy baking!