Name: Fudgy Peanut Butter Cup Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter ((melted)); 6 ounces dark or bittersweet chocolate ((chopped)); 2 large eggs; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon brewed coffee ((optional but recommended)); 1 teaspoon instant espresso granules ((optional but recommended)); 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt ((or to taste)); 9 full-size peanut butter cups ((unwrapped))

The moment you take a bite of these Fudgy Peanut Butter Cup Brownies, your taste buds will be dancing with joy! Rich, decadent, and oh-so-chocolatey, these brownies are elevated by the addition of creamy peanut butter cups that melt into every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, these brownies are sure to satisfy your chocolate cravings. Plus, they’re straightforward to make, and the ingredients are easy to find. So, let’s dive into this delicious journey!

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

These Fudgy Peanut Butter Cup Brownies are more than just a dessert; they’re an experience. The combination of dark chocolate and peanut butter creates a delightful contrast, and the fudgy texture makes them incredibly indulgent. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or a cozy night in, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser. Who can resist the allure of a gooey brownie topped with melty peanut butter cups? Trust me, this recipe is one you’ll want to make again and again!

What We’re Using

To create these delectable brownies, gather the following ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter (1 stick, melted)
6 ounces dark or bittersweet chocolate (chopped, I used Trader Joe’s 72% Pound Plus Bar)
2 large eggs
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon brewed coffee (leftover or cold coffee is okay, optional but recommended)
1 teaspoon instant espresso granules (optional but recommended)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
9 full-size peanut butter cups (unwrapped)

Equipment & Tools

Before we start baking, make sure you have the following equipment on hand:

Mixing bowls – For combining ingredients.
Whisk – To blend the eggs and sugar smoothly.
Rubber spatula – For folding in the flour.
8×8-inch baking pan – This is the perfect size for our brownies.
Parchment paper – To line the baking pan for easy removal.
Oven – Preheated to ensure even baking.

Stepwise Method: Fudgy Peanut Butter Cup Brownies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your brownies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. This will make it easier to lift out the brownies once they’re baked.

Step 3: Melt the Chocolate and Butter

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the chopped dark chocolate and 1 cup of unsalted butter. Stir until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 4: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted chocolate mixture, 2 large eggs, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon of brewed coffee, and 1 teaspoon of instant espresso granules until well combined.

Step 5: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, sift together 1 cup of all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a rubber spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!

Step 6: Add the Peanut Butter Cups

Gently fold in the unwrapped peanut butter cups, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the brownie batter.

Step 7: Bake the Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 8: Cool and Slice

Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the brownies out of the pan and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing into squares.

Budget & Availability Swaps

If you’re looking to make substitutions based on your pantry or budget, here are some ideas:

Butter: You can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
Chocolate: Use semi-sweet chocolate chips if you don’t have dark chocolate on hand.
Granulated Sugar: Brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.
Peanut Butter Cups: Try using any chocolate candy with peanut butter, like Reese’s or store-brand versions.

Troubles You Can Avoid

To ensure your Fudgy Peanut Butter Cup Brownies turn out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

Don’t overmix the batter after adding the flour; this can lead to tough brownies.
Make sure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature for even baking.
Let the brownies cool completely before slicing to achieve clean edges.
Use good-quality chocolate for the best flavor.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

To keep your brownies fresh and delicious for later, consider the following storage tips:

Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week.
For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reader Q&A

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter brownie. Just keep in mind that this will alter the flavor profile slightly.

What if I don’t have brewed coffee?

If you don’t have brewed coffee, you can simply omit it. The coffee enhances the chocolate flavor, but the brownies will still be delicious without it.

How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.

Can I add nuts to the brownie batter?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would be a delicious addition to the brownie batter for extra crunch and flavor.

Serve & Enjoy

Once your Fudgy Peanut Butter Cup Brownies are perfectly baked and cooled, it’s time to dig in! Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat, or enjoy them on their own with a glass of cold milk. These brownies are not only a delightful dessert but also a fantastic way to impress your friends and family. So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor every fudgy, peanut buttery bite!

Fudgy Peanut Butter Cup Brownies are a must-try for anyone who loves chocolate and peanut butter. With their rich flavor and fudgy texture, these brownies will quickly become a favorite in your dessert rotation. Enjoy baking, and even more, enjoy sharing (or keeping them all to yourself)!