If you love indulgent desserts, this peanut butter brownie recipe with chocolate topping will become one of your favorites. Combining the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies with the creamy texture of peanut butter and the luxurious finish of chocolate, this treat is an unforgettable experience. Let's dive into the steps to create these delightful morsels.
Ingredients
- 250g unsalted butter
- 250g dark chocolate, chopped
- 4 large eggs
- 350g caster sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 100g plain flour
- 50g cocoa powder
- 1⁄2 tsp baking powder
- 150g smooth peanut butter
- 100g milk or dark chocolate, for topping
- 50g double cream
Preparation
Step 1: Melting Chocolate and Butter
Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the butter and dark chocolate into a heatproof bowl. Melt them together either over a bain-marie or in the microwave, stirring until you achieve a smooth consistency. Let it cool for a few minutes.
Step 2: Mixing Eggs and Sugar
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with the caster sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is pale and thick. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer.
Step 3: Incorporating Dry Ingredients
Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder. Gradually fold this into the egg and sugar mixture, ensuring there are no lumps. Then gently stir in the melted chocolate mixture until just combined.
Step 4: Adding Peanut Butter
Drop spoonfuls of peanut butter into the batter, swirl it in with a knife or a spatula for a marbled effect. Pour the batter into a lined baking tin.
Step 5: Baking
Bake for about 25-30 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center can remain slightly gooey for that perfect brownie texture.
Step 6: Making the Chocolate Topping
While the brownies cool, melt the remaining chocolate and double cream in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth. Pour this over the cooled brownies, spreading it out evenly.
🍫 Note: Ensure the brownies are completely cool before adding the topping to avoid melting the peanut butter into the chocolate.
Tips for Perfect Brownies
- Don’t overbake; brownies are meant to be slightly undercooked in the center for that fudgy texture.
- Use room temperature ingredients for better blending.
- Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before cutting. This helps them set and makes for cleaner slices.
🍩 Note: If you prefer a less gooey center, bake for an additional 5 minutes, but keep a close eye on the oven.
Serving Suggestions
These brownies are perfect on their own, but for an extra touch:
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Dust with icing sugar for a sophisticated look.
- Top with more peanut butter or caramel drizzle for an even richer experience.
In wrapping up this culinary journey, we’ve explored how the combination of peanut butter and chocolate can transform a simple brownie into a gourmet dessert. The marbled peanut butter swirl adds a delightful twist, while the smooth chocolate topping elevates each bite. This recipe not only offers you a mouthwatering dessert but also provides an opportunity to experiment with your baking skills. Enjoy crafting these delectable treats and share them with friends or savor them at your next family gathering.
Can I use natural peanut butter in this recipe?
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Yes, you can, but keep in mind that natural peanut butter has a different consistency, which might affect the marbling effect. Stir it well before use to ensure it’s smooth.
How long will these brownies last?
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Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these brownies will last up to 4 days. For a longer shelf life, refrigerate them, though this might slightly alter the texture.
What substitutes can I use for the chocolate topping?
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You can use a ganache (chocolate with cream), melted chocolate, or even chocolate glaze made from cocoa powder, sugar, and water for a different texture and flavor profile.
