Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Brownies: The Ultimate Dessert Mashup for Chocolate and Peanut Butter Lovers!

Imagine sinking your teeth into a rich, fudgy brownie, topped with a creamy peanut butter cheesecake swirl, and studded with chunks of your favorite peanut butter cups. That’s the magic of Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Brownies. These decadent treats combine the best of all worlds: the comforting indulgence of brownies, the tangy sophistication of cheesecake, and the irresistible flavor of peanut butter cups. And if you find yourself loving the peanut butter and chocolate combination, try our recipe for Peanut Butter Fudge. These Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Brownies will be the best dessert you ever make. Get ready to experience dessert nirvana! Learning how to prepare Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Brownies will be easy with this simple recipe!

Gathering Your Ingredients:

To create these irresistible Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Brownies, you’ll need high-quality ingredients, measured precisely for the perfect flavor balance. The high quality ingredients is essential for your Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Brownies. For more information on baking techniques and the importance of accurate measurements, review this baking guide: Baking Measurements Guide. Here’s your detailed list for these perfect Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Brownies:

For the Brownie Layer:

  • Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick)

  • Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: 6 ounces

  • Granulated Sugar: 3/4 cup

  • Large Eggs: 2

  • Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon

  • All-Purpose Flour: 1/2 cup

  • Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: 1/4 cup

  • Salt: 1/4 teaspoon

For the Peanut Butter Cheesecake Swirl:

  • Cream Cheese: 8 ounces (1 package), softened to room temperature

  • Granulated Sugar: 1/4 cup

  • Peanut Butter: 1/2 cup, creamy

  • Large Egg: 1

  • Vanilla Extract: 1/2 teaspoon

For the Topping:

  • Peanut Butter Cups: 1 cup, chopped (Reese’s are a classic choice)

A close-up, slightly angled shot of the swirl pattern in a Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Brownie. The lens focuses on the creamy textures of both the brownie and peanut butter cheesecake layers

The Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide to Baking Amazing Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Brownies

Follow these detailed instructions to bake your own batch of incredible Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Brownies: This will make sure that you have high quality Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Brownies

  1. Prepare the Brownie Batter:

    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This step is key for properly baked Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Brownies.

    • In a heatproof bowl set over a simmering pot of water (or in the microwave), melt the butter and chocolate chips together, stirring until smooth. Be sure to keep on the heat to allow for an effective blend.

    • Remove from heat and stir in the granulated sugar.

    • Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

    • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt.

    • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

  2. Make the Peanut Butter Cheesecake Swirl:

    • In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. This step will ensure the proper preparation for your Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Brownies.

    • Add the granulated sugar and peanut butter, beating until well combined.

    • Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth.

  3. Assemble the Brownies:

    • Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading evenly. Properly spread the mixture to create the perfect base.

    • Drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter.

    • Use a knife or skewer to swirl the cheesecake mixture into the brownie batter. This helps the flavours be more evenly distributed to all parts of the brownie.

    • Sprinkle the chopped peanut butter cups over the top. Properly prepare and top so that you have the perfect Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Brownies.

  4. Bake:

    • Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached. Be careful not to overbake. It’s better to pull out too early than to bake it too much.

  5. Cool and Serve:

    • Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper overhang.

    • Cut into squares and serve your Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Brownies. Enjoy!

Helpful Tips for Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Brownie Baking Perfection

Follow these tips to ensure your Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Brownies are a decadent success and to ensure you have the most perfectly tasty results:

  • Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Softened cream cheese and room-temperature eggs are essential for a smooth and creamy cheesecake swirl. The temperature makes a big difference in the final quality of the baking product.

  • Don’t Overmix the Brownie Batter: Overmixing can result in tough brownies. Mix until just combined. It’s important to have a proper technique. This will make the quality of Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Brownies much better.

  • Swirl Gently: When swirling the cheesecake mixture, be careful not to overmix or create a muddy appearance. Properly execute, and you will have a very tasty creation of Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Brownies.

  • Don’t Overbake: Overbaked brownies will be dry and crumbly. Bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached. Over baking this masterpiece can easily ruin it, so be extremely careful to prevent it from baking for too long.

  • Line the Pan with Parchment Paper: This makes it easy to lift the brownies out of the pan for cutting.

  • Use High-Quality Chocolate: The best brownies start with high-quality chocolate, so make sure that you’re using the right materials.

Conservation and Storage: Keeping Your Delicious Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Brownies Fresh

To keep your Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Brownies fresh and delicious, follow these storage guidelines: For safe food preparation, make sure that you are following all safety protocols and guidelines. For more information visit Food Safety Webpage

  • Store at Room Temperature: Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you store these well, it will ensure that your delicious treat will last.

  • Refrigerate (Optional): For longer storage, store the brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let them come to room temperature before serving. If you want to extend the shelf life, it is best to properly refrigerate.

  • Freezing: Wrap the brownies individually in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving. However, freezing may compromise the texture of your Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Brownies.

Variations

Get creative and put your own spin on these decadent treats with these variations: The only limit is your imagination! What kind of Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Brownies will you create?

  • Double Chocolate: Use dark chocolate chips in the brownie batter for an even richer chocolate flavor.

  • Oreo Swirl: Replace the peanut butter cheesecake swirl with an Oreo cheesecake swirl.

  • Nutella Swirl: Swirl Nutella into the brownie batter for a hazelnut twist.

  • Caramel Swirl: Swirl caramel sauce into the brownie batter for a sweet and salty treat.

  • Add Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the brownie batter for extra crunch.

  • Espresso Powder: Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the brownie batter to enhance the chocolate flavor.

  • Use different peanut butter cups: Instead of Reese’s, try using another peanut butter cup, such as a brand that has sea salt. This will completely alter the taste, and it is highly suggested that you use high quality ingredients. This has a tremendous impact on your final product.

An amateur, slightly off-center photo of several Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Brownies arranged on a simple plate alongside a glass of milk. Soft lighting.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve your Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Brownies for the best flavor and texture. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance the experience: There are great ways to serve, but you must use your own innovation to create new ways to prepare your Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Brownies.

  • Vanilla Ice Cream: Top warm brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold and warm mixture makes for a tasty treat.

  • Whipped Cream: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream. Adding whipped cream allows for a fluffy and well textured brownie.

  • Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle chocolate sauce over the top.

  • Peanut Butter Drizzle: Drizzle melted peanut butter over the top for an extra peanut butter kick. This helps properly bring out the peanut butter taste.

  • Coffee or Milk: Pair with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot coffee. This will cleanse the palate, and allow for enhanced flavor.

  • Fresh Berries: Serve with fresh raspberries or strawberries for a burst of flavor and color. A fruity addition to create a unique twist.

  • Make a Brownie Sundae: Top with all of your favorite sundae toppings, such as sprinkles, hot fudge, and cherries. This gives a new approach to brownie preparation.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Can I use a store-bought brownie mix?

A: While a homemade brownie batter is recommended for the best flavor and texture for your Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Brownies, you can use a store-bought brownie mix in a pinch. However, it isn’t suggested.

Q: How do I prevent the cheesecake swirl from sinking into the brownie batter?

A: Make sure the brownie batter is not too thin and the cheesecake swirl is not too heavy. Also, avoid overmixing the batter.

Q: Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

A: Yes, these brownies can be made a day or two in advance for the best Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Brownies. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

Q: What if I don’t have parchment paper?

A: You can grease and flour the baking pan instead of using parchment paper to make your Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Brownies.

Q: Can I use a different type of nut butter?

A: Yes, you can experiment with other nut butters, such as almond butter or cashew butter, in the cheesecake swirl for your Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Brownies.

Q: How should I cut the brownies for the best presentation?

A: Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean after each cut to create clean, even squares of Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Brownies.

Conclusion:

Our Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Brownies are more than just a dessert; they’re a celebration of everything delicious. The combination of fudgy brownies, creamy peanut butter cheesecake, and chunks of peanut butter cups creates a symphony of flavors and textures that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. So, gather your ingredients, follow the instructions, and prepare to bake a batch of these irresistible treats. Once you try them, you’ll agree that these brownies are destined to be a classic! Enjoy this masterpiece! You will never look at Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Brownies the same.

Print

Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Brownies

Rich, fudgy brownies topped with a creamy peanut butter cheesecake swirl and chunks of peanut butter cups. A decadent treat for any chocolate and peanut butter lover!

  • Author: Kiera
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 12 brownies 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup chopped peanut butter cups

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a heatproof bowl, melt butter and chocolate chips over a double boiler or microwave until smooth.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in granulated sugar.
  4. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually fold into wet ingredients.
  6. In another bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, peanut butter, egg, and vanilla, mixing until creamy.
  7. Pour brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
  8. Drop spoonfuls of peanut butter cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter.
  9. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the cheesecake mixture into the brownie batter.
  10. Sprinkle chopped peanut butter cups on top.
  11. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.
  12. Let brownies cool completely before lifting out with parchment paper.
  13. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Notes

For best results, use room temperature ingredients. Don’t overmix the batter to keep the brownies fudgy.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 brownie
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 28g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: brownies, peanut butter, cheesecake, dessert, chocolate

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