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Peanut Butter Brownie Bars Recipe

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4 from 8 reviews

These Peanut Butter Brownie Bars combine the rich, fudgy texture of chocolate brownies with a creamy peanut butter layer and a crunchy chocolate rice cereal topping. Perfect for sharing, these bars are a delicious treat with a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 3 hours (including chilling time)
  • Yield: 20 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Brownie Base

  • 115 grams unsalted butter, melted
  • 200 grams (1 cup) caster sugar or granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 40 grams (1/2 cup) cocoa powder, sifted
  • 35 grams (1/4 cup) plain flour or all purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Peanut Butter Layer

  • 60 grams (1/4 cup) unsalted butter, softened
  • 250 grams (1 cup) smooth peanut butter, room temperature
  • 65 grams (1/2 cup) icing sugar or powdered sugar

Chocolate Crunch Topping

  • 150 grams (1 cup) good quality dark chocolate, pieces
  • 20 grams (1/2 cup) Rice Bubbles or Rice Krispies
  • 1 teaspoon vegetable oil or coconut oil, optional

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat 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 baking or parchment paper, ensuring there is an overhang on two sides for easy removal later.
  2. Make the Brownie Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, and vanilla extract until combined. Add the eggs one at a time followed by the egg yolk. Then sift in the cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Stir gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
  3. Bake the Brownie Layer: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the edges are set but the center is still slightly soft. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely. Chill in the fridge if preparing ahead.
  4. Prepare Peanut Butter Filling: In a clean bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat softened butter and smooth peanut butter together until creamy. Add the icing sugar and continue mixing until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  5. Layer the Peanut Butter: Spread the peanut butter filling evenly over the cooled brownie layer using a spatula, smoothing the top. Return the pan to the refrigerator to firm up.
  6. Make Chocolate Crunch Topping: Melt the dark chocolate in the microwave by heating in 20-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. Stir in the Rice Bubbles or Rice Krispies until they are fully coated. Add vegetable or coconut oil if using and mix well.
  7. Assemble and Chill: Pour the chocolate and cereal mixture over the peanut butter layer, spreading it out as evenly as possible. Place the pan in the fridge or freezer to chill for at least 2 hours, or until the topping is firm.
  8. Serve: Use a hot knife (dip in hot water and wipe dry between cuts) to carefully slice the set bars into small squares. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

  • Make sure to cool the brownie completely before adding the peanut butter layer to prevent melting.
  • For easier cutting, warm your knife before slicing to achieve cleaner edges.
  • Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • You can substitute smooth peanut butter with crunchy if you prefer added texture.
  • If you prefer a sweeter topping, use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate.