Peanut Butter Brownie Bars Recipe

If you crave the epic combo of chocolate and peanut butter, this Peanut Butter Brownie Bars Recipe is about to become your new obsession! Imagine rich, fudgy brownies topped with a creamy peanut butter layer and finished with a crunchy chocolate topping. Every bite is a dream come true for dessert lovers who want gooey, crispy, and smooth textures all in one treat. Make one batch and watch everyone ask for seconds (or thirds) — it’s that irresistible!

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes this recipe truly magical is how a handful of everyday ingredients transform into layers of flavor and texture. Each one plays a role: some bring richness, some softness, some crunch, but together they create absolute dessert harmony!

• Unsalted butter (115g, melted): Brings deep richness and helps set the fudgy brownie base.
• Sugar (200g, 1 cup, caster or granulated): Adds sweetness and gives the brownies their perfect crackly top.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp): A dash of vanilla deepens the chocolate and peanut butter flavors.
• Large eggs (2) + 1 egg yolk: These add moisture and create the dense, chewy brownie texture.
• Cocoa powder (40g, 1/2 cup, sifted): The heart of the chocolate layer—be sure to sift for a smooth batter!
• All-purpose flour (35g, 1/4 cup): Just enough flour for structure without heaviness.
• Salt (1/4 tsp): Balances and brightens all the sweet flavors in each bite.
• Unsalted butter (60g, softened): Adds creamy richness to the peanut butter topping.
• Smooth peanut butter (250g, 1 cup, room temp): The star for the middle layer—smooth is best for spreading!
• Icing/powdered sugar (65g, 1/2 cup): Blends seamlessly into the peanut butter for extra silkiness and sweetness.
• Good quality dark chocolate (150g, 1 cup pieces): For that decadent, snappy chocolate layer on top.
• Rice Bubbles/Rice Krispies (20g, 1/2 cup): Give the final layer its delightful crunch.
• Vegetable or coconut oil (1 tsp, optional): Makes the chocolate topping extra glossy and easy to slice.

How to Make Peanut Butter Brownie Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Base

Start by preheating your oven to 180 C (350 F) standard or 160 C (320 F) fan-forced. Grease and line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, making sure the paper overhangs on two sides for easy lifting later. This little trick is a life-saver when it’s time to slice!

Step 2: Mix the Brownie Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, and vanilla extract until glossy. Add the eggs one at a time, plus the egg yolk, whisking gently after each. This creates that signature chewy brownie texture! Next, sift in the cocoa powder, flour, and salt, stirring just until the mixture comes together. Overmixing will make the brownies tough—so stop as soon as you see no more streaks.

Step 3: Bake to Fudgy Perfection

Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan, smoothing it out evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a skewer poked in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter). Let the brownie base cool completely. If you’re prepping ahead, cover the pan and refrigerate so everything is set for the next layer.

Step 4: Make the Peanut Butter Layer

Time for that ultra-creamy middle! Beat softened butter and peanut butter in a large bowl until it’s blended and fluffy, using an electric mixer on medium speed. Add in the icing sugar and beat again until smooth and spreadable. Gently dollop the peanut butter mixture on the cooled brownies and spread to the edges. Pop the whole pan in the fridge to firm up while you tackle the chocolate crunch.

Step 5: Whip Up the Chocolate Crunch

Melt dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl, zapping for 20 seconds at a time and stirring between each burst until smooth (no burnt chocolate here, please!). Stir in the Rice Krispies to thoroughly coat them in melted chocolate. If you’re using oil, add it now for extra shine. Quickly spread this mixture over the chilled peanut butter layer and press it out to the edges. Now the hardest part: chill in the fridge or freezer for at least 2 hours or until completely firm.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

To get those dreamy clean edges, dip a sharp knife in hot water, wipe it dry, and slice the bars. This trick makes every layer picture-perfect! Now you’re ready to enjoy the magic of the Peanut Butter Brownie Bars Recipe in every gorgeous bite.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Brownie Bars Recipe

Garnishes

A little extra flair goes a long way! Dust bars with more cocoa powder or a pinch of flaky salt, or drizzle some melted chocolate over the top. Chopped roasted peanuts or a few pretty sprinkles add fun color and a salty crunch.

Side Dishes

Pair your bars with a cool scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream, or serve alongside a steaming mug of coffee or cold milk for the ultimate comfort treat. Fresh sliced strawberries make a tangy counterpoint to all that richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, cut the bars into bite-size squares and nestle them into mini cupcake liners. Or, make the Peanut Butter Brownie Bars Recipe the centerpiece of a dessert platter, surrounded by fruit, cookies, and candies for a wow-worthy display!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These bars keep brilliantly in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Stacking with parchment or wax paper in between helps keep the layers neat and tidy.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap and tuck them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay delicious for up to a month; just thaw in the fridge before serving for best results.

Reheating

While these are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, a quick 5-10 seconds in the microwave can bring a gentle softness and amp up the gooey factor. Just don’t overheat, or the chocolate layer will melt!

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add even more texture to the middle layer. If you love an extra nutty bite, go for it—your Peanut Butter Brownie Bars Recipe will still be delicious.

How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

Insert a skewer or toothpick into the center of the brownies. If it comes out with just a few moist crumbs attached, they’re ready. If there’s wet batter on the stick, give them a few more minutes. Be careful not to overbake for that classic fudgy texture!

Can I make the Peanut Butter Brownie Bars Recipe gluten free?

Yes! Simply swap out the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten free blend. Most gluten free flours work well in brownies since they’re naturally dense and moist treats.

What if I don’t have Rice Krispies for the top?

No problem. You can use any crispy rice cereal or even crushed cornflakes for the topping. It’s all about that satisfying crunch in contrast with the creamy peanut butter and fudgy brownie.

Do I have to refrigerate the bars overnight?

While an overnight chill makes for the cleanest cuts and best texture, you can get away with just two hours in the fridge or even one hour in the freezer if you’re impatient. Either way, chilling helps the Peanut Butter Brownie Bars Recipe slice up without smearing the layers.

Final Thoughts

Once you’ve tried this Peanut Butter Brownie Bars Recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. The three incredible layers make each bar a showstopper, perfect for parties, potlucks, or your own late-night cravings. So grab your mixing bowl and treat yourself—you absolutely deserve this level of decadence!

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