Name: Peanut Butter Cheesecake Brownie Bars Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 5 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3/4 cup unsalted butter, sliced into tablespoons; 6 ounces semi-sweet baking bar, chopped; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup light brown sugar, packed; 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt; 3 large eggs; 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 3/4 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 8 ounces whipped topping; 1/4 cup melted chocolate bark (optional)

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Introduction

Peanut Butter Brownies combine rich chocolate flavor with a creamy, peanut butter topping for a decadent treat. These brownies are fudgy, moist, and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. A little chilling time brings the flavors together beautifully.

A slice of layered dessert is shown on a white plate with a honeycomb pattern and a thin gold rim, placed on a white marbled surface. The dessert has two main layers: a thick, dense dark brown chocolate brownie base with visible chocolate chips, and a thick creamy light beige frosting layer on top, decorated with zigzagging dark chocolate drizzle. In the foreground, a fork holds a small bite showing both the creamy frosting and brownie layers clearly. Around the slice on the plate, there are several scattered dark chocolate chips. The background is softly blurred with another plate holding a similar dessert and a glass of milk nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3/4 cup unsalted butter, sliced into tablespoons
6 ounces semi-sweet baking chocolate bar, chopped
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup light brown sugar, packed
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
3 large eggs
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

For the topping:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
8 ounces whipped topping
1/4 cup melted chocolate bark (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13 inch baking dish with foil and spray with cooking spray. Set aside.
Step 2: In a medium-sized bowl, add the butter and chopped chocolate. Microwave for 30 seconds, stir, then microwave for another 30 seconds and stir again. Continue microwaving at 15-second intervals, stirring between, until the mixture is completely melted. Stir in the vanilla extract and set aside.
Step 3: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and sea salt. Stir to mix.
Step 4: At low speed, add the eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition until incorporated.
Step 5: Increase the mixer speed to medium and mix for 2 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
Step 6: Turn the mixer speed to low and slowly stream in the melted chocolate mixture until combined.
Step 7: Add the chocolate chips and fold them in gently until evenly incorporated. The batter will be very thick.
Step 8: Press the brownie batter evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Using your hands can make spreading easier.
Step 9: Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is set and no longer glossy, and the edges have puffed slightly. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for doneness.
Step 10: Let the brownies cool completely on a wire rack.
Step 11: To make the topping, place the softened cream cheese in a large bowl and beat with an electric hand mixer until smooth.
Step 12: Add the powdered sugar and mix until smooth. Then add the peanut butter and vanilla extract, mixing again until smooth.
Step 13: Fold in the whipped topping carefully until there are no streaks left.
Step 14: Spread the peanut butter topping evenly over the cooled brownies.
Step 15: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
Step 16: Use the foil to lift the brownies out of the pan. Cut into bars and drizzle with melted chocolate bark if desired.
Step 17: Serve plain or with additional toppings like whipped cream, chopped peanuts, chocolate chips, or Reese’s Pieces. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For a crunchier texture, sprinkle chopped peanuts over the peanut butter topping before chilling.
Use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet for a deeper chocolate flavor.
If you prefer a nut-free version, substitute the peanut butter topping with a marshmallow cream layer.
Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free topping.
Press the batter firmly and evenly into the pan to avoid uneven baking.

Storage

Store the brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The chilling keeps the peanut butter topping firm and fresh. For best flavor, allow the brownies to come to room temperature before serving. You can also freeze the brownies for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

How to Serve

A square dessert bar with two main layers sits on a white plate held by a woman's hand. The bottom layer is thick, dark brown, and dense, looking like a rich chocolate brownie with visible chunks of chocolate. The top layer is lighter brown, creamy, and smooth, resembling a fluffy mousse or frosting. Dark chocolate drizzle is artistically spread across the top light layer, dripping slightly down the sides. A white swirl of whipped cream is placed in the center on top. Several chocolate chips are scattered around the base on the plate. The background has a white marbled texture with more of the dessert slightly blurred in the distance, creating a soft, inviting feel. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these brownies without a microwave?

Yes, you can melt the butter and chocolate together using a double boiler on the stovetop. Stir frequently until smooth and fully combined.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter for the topping?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds a nice texture contrast, but be sure to fold it well with the other topping ingredients to ensure an even spread.