Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownies
Rich chocolate peanut butter brownies combine creamy peanut butter with chocolate chips for a decadent treat, perfect for chocolate lovers and sweet tooths alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stir together the cake mix, peanut butter, melted margarine, and eggs until the mixture holds together.
- Press two-thirds of the batter into the bottom of an ungreased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Combine the sweetened condensed milk, semi-sweet chocolate chips, margarine, and salt in a saucepan over low heat.
- Stir until the chocolate chips are melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Pour the chocolate mixture over the pressed batter in the pan.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes or until set.
- Allow to cool before cutting into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet. If you want to make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free blend. You can also use almond butter instead of peanut butter for a different twist. Be sure to let the brownies cool completely before cutting to ensure clean edges.
Serving Suggestions
These Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownies are delicious on their own but can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. Pair them with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a delightful afternoon snack. They also make a great addition to a dessert platter alongside Mint Fudge or New Peanut Butter Crispy Treats.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place a brownie in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a warm, gooey treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownies contains roughly 558 calories, with 8g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is a good source of protein (17% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (14% of the Daily Value), and calcium (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 903mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use natural peanut butter instead of processed?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but be aware that the texture may differ slightly. Natural peanut butter often has a more oil separation, so stir it well before measuring. This may also change the moisture content a bit, so you might need to adjust the melted margarine slightly.
How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
To check if the brownies are done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. If it comes out wet with batter, they need more time. Remember, they will continue to set as they cool.
Can I freeze these brownies?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the brownies tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).