Peanut Butter Brownie Cups
Peanut Butter Brownie Cups are a decadent blend of rich, fudgy brownie and creamy peanut butter, making them the perfect dessert for chocolate lovers. These delightful little treats are not only easy to whip up but are also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Imagine sinking your teeth into a velvety brownie cup topped with a luscious layer of sweet peanut butter, all while enjoying the comforting aroma wafting through your kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and a simple step-by-step process, you can master these irresistible bites of joy that are perfect for family gatherings, parties, or a cozy night in.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to adore this Peanut Butter Brownie Cups recipe. Firstly, it features minimal prep work and quick baking time, making it ideal for those unexpected sweet cravings or last-minute gatherings. The combination of flavors melds beautifully, creating a delightful textural contrast that everyone will love. Plus, these cups are an easy way to impress your friends or family with your culinary skills, even if you’re just starting out in the kitchen! It’s a nostalgic treat that brings back memories of childhood baking adventures, making it a wonderful addition to your recipe collection.
Ingredients
Creating these Peanut Butter Brownie Cups requires just a few simple ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Melts into a rich base, adding moisture.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the mix, balancing the chocolate’s intensity.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Introduces a hint of caramel flavor for extra depth.
- 2 large eggs: Acts as a binder, ensuring a rich and fudgy texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a sweet aroma that enhances the overall flavor.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Provides structure while keeping the brownies soft.
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder: Delivers that beloved, deep chocolate essence.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Elevates all the flavors, preventing them from becoming flat.
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter: Adds a sumptuous layer of nutty goodness.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the peanut butter filling with a smooth texture.
- 1 tablespoon milk: Ensures the peanut butter spread is perfectly spreadable.
- 1/3 cup chocolate chips (plus more for topping): Adds extra chocolatey goodness, making every bite divine.
Step-by-Step Directions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a muffin tin by lining it with cupcake liners or lightly greasing it.
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In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and then stir in granulated sugar and brown sugar until well combined.
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Whisk in the eggs and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and uniform in appearance.
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In a separate bowl, blend together all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt, ensuring no lumps remain.
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Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your brownies tender.
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Using a spoon, fill each muffin cup with the batter, making sure to fill them about 3/4 full.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes until the tops are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean.
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Once they are out of the oven, allow the brownie cups to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
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Meanwhile, prepare the peanut butter topping by mixing peanut butter, powdered sugar, and milk in a bowl until it’s smooth and spreadable.
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Once the brownie cups have cooled sufficiently, generously spread the peanut butter mixture over the top of each one.
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While the peanut butter is still soft, press additional chocolate chips into the topping for an extra dose of deliciousness.
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Let the brownie cups set at room temperature or chill them briefly in the fridge to firm up before serving.
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Enjoy your Peanut Butter Brownie Cups warm, at room temperature, or chilled!
Tips & Tricks
- Ensure Accurate Measurements: Baking is a science; make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.
- Add Crunch: If you want a little crunch, consider folding in some chopped nuts into the brownie batter.
- Flavor Variations: Swap out creamy peanut butter for crunchy if you prefer a bit of texture.
- Toppings Galore: Feel free to get creative with toppings! Decorative sprinkles or a drizzle of caramel could elevate the look and flavor.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on your brownie cups towards the end of the baking time to prevent them from drying out.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Peanut Butter Brownie Cups can stand alone as a delightful dessert, but they also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For added flavor, drizzle some chocolate sauce over the top. These brownie cups are perfect for birthday parties, family gatherings, or as a sweet treat after a cozy dinner. Share them with friends and watch them disappear in an instant!
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Peanut Butter Brownie Cups contains approximately 200 calories. While they are indulgent, they also provide a balance of carbohydrates from the sugars and flour, healthy fats from the peanut butter, and some protein. Remember to enjoy treats like these in moderation as part of a balanced diet!
Storing Tips & Variations
- Storing: Keep your Peanut Butter Brownie Cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge to extend freshness for a week.
- Freezing: To freeze, place the brownie cups in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to an airtight container or a zip-top bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, just until warm.
- Variations: Get creative! You can add a layer of raspberry jam between the brownie and peanut butter for a fruity contrast or use almond butter instead of peanut butter for a nutty twist.
Conclusion
The Peanut Butter Brownie Cups recipe is a straightforward and delightful treat that everyone will love. Whether served warm, at room temperature, or chilled, they are sure to bring smiles and joy to every gathering. This easy-to-follow recipe offers a comforting sweetness that is perfect for making memories with friends and family. Don’t hesitate to give it a try and share your experience with others.
FAQs
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Can I substitute the creamy peanut butter for something else?
Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter for added texture, or even almond butter if you have nut allergies. -
Can I leave out the chocolate chips?
While the chocolate chips add extra chocolatey goodness, you can certainly leave them out if you prefer a less sweet treat. -
How do I know when my brownie cups are done baking?
The tops should look set, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out with moist crumbs but not wet batter. -
Can I make these brownie cups in advance?
Absolutely! They store well and can even be made a day or two in advance. Just keep them in an airtight container. -
What’s the best way to serve these?
These brownie cups are delicious served alone, but they are also fantastic topped with ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of melted chocolate for an extra indulgent treat.
Peanut Butter Brownie Cups
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A decadent blend of rich, fudgy brownie and creamy peanut butter, perfect for chocolate lovers and guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1/3 cup chocolate chips (plus more for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a muffin tin by lining it with cupcake liners or lightly greasing it.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and then stir in granulated sugar and brown sugar until well combined.
- Whisk in the eggs and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and uniform in appearance.
- In a separate bowl, blend together all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your brownies tender.
- Using a spoon, fill each muffin cup with the batter, making sure to fill them about 3/4 full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes until the tops are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean.
- Once they are out of the oven, allow the brownie cups to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
- Meanwhile, prepare the peanut butter topping by mixing peanut butter, powdered sugar, and milk in a bowl until it’s smooth and spreadable.
- Spread the peanut butter mixture over the top of each brownie cup.
- Press additional chocolate chips into the topping and let the brownie cups set before serving.
- Enjoy your Peanut Butter Brownie Cups warm, at room temperature, or chilled!
Notes
For added crunch, fold in some chopped nuts into the brownie batter. Keep a close eye on baking to prevent drying out.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
