Double Frosted Peanut Butter Brownies

If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that perfectly marries rich chocolate with creamy peanut butter, look no further than these Double Frosted Peanut Butter Brownies. These decadent treats feature a fudgy brownie base topped with not one, but two layers of delicious frosting. They are a dream for any chocolate and peanut butter lover, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Whether it’s for a special occasion or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, these brownies are sure to impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Double Frosted Peanut Butter Brownies are not just your average brownies. They are:

• Indulgent: The combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter is hard to resist.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, you can whip these up in no time.
• Perfect for Sharing: Cut them into bite-sized squares, and they make an excellent treat for parties or gatherings.
• Versatile: The brownie base can be enjoyed on its own, or you can go all out with both frostings for a truly decadent dessert.

What You’ll Gather

Before we get started, let’s make sure you have everything you need to create these delightful Double Frosted Peanut Butter Brownies. Here’s a list of ingredients:

• 1 cup butter – for that rich fudgy texture.
• 4 ounces unsweetened chocolate, coarsely chopped – adds deep chocolate flavor.
• 1 2/3 cups granulated sugar – for sweetness and moisture.
• 4 large eggs – provides structure and richness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances the flavors.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour – the base of the brownies.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – balances sweetness.
• 1 cup peanut butter chips – for bursts of peanut butter goodness.
• 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar – for the first frosting.
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter – the star of the topping.
• 3-4 tablespoons milk – to achieve the right frosting consistency.
• 1/4 cup butter, softened – for the second layer of frosting.
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – adds a chocolatey punch.
• 1/4 cup milk – for the second frosting.
• 3 cups confectioners’ sugar – for sweetening the chocolate frosting.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – to bring together the flavors in the frostings.

Prep & Cook Tools

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the following tools:

• Mixing Bowls – for combining your ingredients.
• Whisk or Electric Mixer – for effortless mixing.
• 9×13-inch Baking Pan – the perfect size for brownies.
• Parchment Paper – for easy removal of brownies.
• Spatula – for spreading the frosting evenly.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons – to ensure accuracy in your ingredients.

Method: Double Frosted Peanut Butter Brownies

Now that you have everything ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step method for making these scrumptious Double Frosted Peanut Butter Brownies.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your brownies bake evenly and become that fudgy perfection we all love.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later. This little trick makes cleanup a breeze!

Step 3: Melt the Butter and Chocolate

In a medium saucepan, melt the 1 cup of butter and the 4 ounces of unsweetened chocolate over low heat. Stir continuously until smooth and combined. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 4: Mix the Sugar and Eggs

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted chocolate mixture with 1 2/3 cups granulated sugar. Stir until well blended. Add the 4 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, whisking until the mixture is smooth and glossy.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the chocolate mixture, folding gently to combine. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Add Peanut Butter Chips

Fold in the 1 cup of peanut butter chips until evenly distributed throughout the batter. These little gems will melt slightly during baking, creating delicious pockets of peanut butter goodness.

Step 7: Bake the Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Step 8: Prepare the First Frosting

While the brownies are cooling, start on the first layer of frosting. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar, 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter, and 3-4 tablespoons milk. Mix until smooth and creamy. Adjust the milk as needed for desired consistency.

Step 9: Frost the Brownies

Once the brownies are completely cooled, spread the peanut butter frosting evenly over the top using a spatula.

Step 10: Prepare the Second Frosting

For the chocolate frosting, beat together 1/4 cup softened butter, 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/4 cup milk, and 3 cups confectioners’ sugar until smooth. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for extra flavor.

Step 11: Frost Again!

Spread the chocolate frosting over the peanut butter frosting layer, smoothing it out as desired. The combination of both frostings creates a deliciously rich topping.

Step 12: Chill and Cut

For best results, refrigerate the brownies for about 30 minutes to set the frosting. Once chilled, lift the brownies out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and serve.

Fresh Takes Through the Year

These Double Frosted Peanut Butter Brownies can be customized for any season or occasion:

• Add chopped nuts for added texture.
• Top with crushed cookies for a fun crunch.
• Mix in chocolate chunks for extra chocolatey goodness.
• Try different flavors of frosting, like cream cheese or caramel!

Common Errors (and Fixes)

Baking can sometimes lead to mishaps. Here are some common errors and how to fix them:

• Brownies are too dry: Make sure not to overbake. Check for doneness a few minutes early.
• Frosting is too runny: Add more confectioners’ sugar until you reach the desired thickness.
• Brownies stick to the pan: Always use parchment paper or grease the pan well.
• Uneven baking: Rotate your pan halfway through baking for even cooking.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

To keep your Double Frosted Peanut Butter Brownies fresh:

Allow brownies to cool completely before storing. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. If you want to rewarm them, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds until just warmed.

Ask & Learn

Can I use dark chocolate instead of unsweetened chocolate?

Yes, you can use dark chocolate, but you’ll need to adjust the sugar in the recipe since dark chocolate is usually sweeter than unsweetened chocolate.

What if I don’t have peanut butter chips?

You can substitute with chocolate chips or chopped nuts, or simply add more creamy peanut butter to the batter for that peanut butter flavor.

How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are done. If it comes out wet with batter, they need more time.

Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Because You Liked This

If you enjoyed these Double Frosted Peanut Butter Brownies, you might also love:

• Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Peanut Butter Cupcakes with Chocolate Frosting
• Fudgy Brownie Bites
• Salted Caramel Brownies

Hungry for More?

Stay tuned for more delicious recipes coming your way. You won’t want to miss our next baking adventure!

There you have it! A delightful recipe for Double Frosted Peanut Butter Brownies that’s sure to satisfy any chocolate and peanut butter craving. Happy baking!