Peanut Butter Brownie Cups

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If you ever wished a peanut butter cup and a fudgy brownie had a baby, this is it. Peanut Butter Brownie Cups are a perfect marriage of chocolatey richness and nutty creaminess, all packed into a hand-held bite-sized treat. Whether you’re baking for a party, holiday cookie tray, or just because you need something indulgent and sweet, these are a no-fail winner.

What makes these brownie cups so irresistible is the texture contrast. You get a soft, dense brownie base with that signature crackly top, paired with a smooth, gooey peanut butter center that sinks just slightly into the middle as it sets. It’s comfort baking at its easiest and most crave-worthy.

Why You’ll Love These Peanut Butter Brownie Cups

These treats are everything you love about classic brownies and peanut butter cookies rolled into one. They’re easy to make, look impressive on a dessert platter, and travel well for lunchboxes or potlucks. Plus, they freeze beautifully, so you can make a batch and enjoy them over time (if they last that long!).

Can I Use Store-Bought Brownie Mix?

Absolutely, you can use a store-bought brownie mix to speed things up. Just follow the box directions and scoop the batter into a muffin tin as usual. However, for the richest, fudgiest texture, I recommend making the brownie batter from scratch. It takes just a few extra minutes and gives you that intense homemade flavor that pairs beautifully with the peanut butter center.

Ingredients for the Peanut Butter Brownie Cups

You only need a few pantry staples to whip up a batch of these irresistible brownie cups. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating that perfect chocolate and peanut butter harmony.

• Butter: Adds moisture and richness to the brownies.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the brownie base and gives the tops that crackly texture.
• Brown sugar: Brings a subtle molasses depth and chewiness.
• Eggs: Bind everything together and contribute to the fudgy interior.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor and adds warmth.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: Delivers deep chocolate flavor without adding extra sweetness.
• All-purpose flour: Provides structure without making the brownies cakey.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate.
• Creamy peanut butter: The star of the show, it melts slightly into the warm brownies, creating that luscious center.

How To Make the Peanut Butter Brownie Cups

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a mini muffin pan. This helps the brownie cups release cleanly after baking.

Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter

In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter, then remove it from heat and stir in both sugars until smooth. Let it cool slightly before whisking in the eggs and vanilla. Fold in the cocoa powder, flour, and salt until just combined.

Step 3: Fill the Muffin Tin

Scoop the brownie batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cavity about three-quarters full.

Step 4: Add the Peanut Butter Center

Warm the peanut butter slightly in the microwave to make it easier to scoop. Drop about a teaspoon into the center of each brownie batter-filled cup. It will sink slightly as it bakes.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are just slightly soft. Don’t overbake, as the peanut butter will firm up as it cools.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Let the brownie cups cool in the tin for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. They’re best enjoyed slightly warm, but they hold their shape beautifully once cooled.

How to Serve and Store These Brownie Cups

These Peanut Butter Brownie Cups make about 24 mini servings, making them perfect for parties or weekly lunchbox treats. Serve them warm for a melty peanut butter center or enjoy them at room temperature where the flavors meld even more.

To store, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months. Just bring to room temp or microwave for a few seconds to enjoy.

What to Serve With Peanut Butter Brownie Cups?

A Cold Glass of Milk

You can never go wrong with the classic combo of brownies and cold milk. It balances the richness and brings out the chocolate flavor.

Hot Coffee or Espresso

A warm, bold coffee or shot of espresso cuts through the sweetness and makes for an indulgent afternoon break.

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

Add a brownie cup on top of a scoop of ice cream for an instant dessert upgrade.

Fresh Berries

Strawberries or raspberries offer a fruity contrast and add a pop of color to your plate.

Chocolate Drizzle

Drizzle with melted chocolate or ganache for an extra decadent presentation.

Crushed Pretzels

Add a salty crunch by topping your brownie cups with crushed pretzels before the peanut butter sets.

Whipped Cream

Top with a small dollop of whipped cream for a bakery-style finish.

Want More Dessert Ideas with a Twist?

If these Peanut Butter Brownie Cups hit the sweet spot, here are a few more you’ll love:

• Try the Ooey Gooey Butter Cake for a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth indulgence.
• The Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies are perfect for summer nostalgia.
• Don’t miss the Easter Chocolate Lasagna if you’re a layered dessert lover.
• Bake up Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies for a cinnamon-sugar surprise.
• And the Blueberry Lime Cheesecake Cupcakes offer tangy freshness in every bite.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go extra on the peanut butter or try a swirl on top? Maybe added chocolate chips?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other bake smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and treats on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to dessert!

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