Chocolate Peanut Butter Skillet Brownie.

Indulging in a warm, gooey Chocolate Peanut Butter Skillet Brownie is like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. This dessert combines the rich flavors of chocolate and peanut butter into a fudgy brownie that’s baked to perfection in a cast-iron skillet. It’s an easy-to-make treat that’s sure to impress family and friends, whether for a casual weeknight dessert or a special occasion. With a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting atop the warm brownie, you’ll find that this dessert is not just a treat; it’s an experience. Let’s dive into the reasons why you should whip up this delicious creation!

Top Reasons to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Skillet Brownie.

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just one bowl and requires minimal cleanup, making it perfect for a last-minute dessert.
• Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate and creamy peanut butter creates a flavor explosion that satisfies any sweet tooth.
• Warm and Gooey: Baking in a skillet allows for crispy edges and a gooey center, delivering the best brownie texture.
• Customizable: You can add nuts, different types of chocolate, or even caramel for a unique twist.
• Perfect for Sharing: This skillet brownie is designed for sharing, making it a great dessert for gatherings or family dinners.

The Ingredient Lineup

• 1 cup unsalted butter: Provides moisture and a rich flavor.
• 1 cup sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender brownie.
• 1 cup dark brown sugar: Enhances the brownie’s chewiness and adds depth of flavor.
• 3 large eggs, lightly beaten: Acts as a binder and gives structure to the brownies.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic flavor.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: The base of the brownie, providing structure.
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Infuses the brownies with a deep chocolate flavor.
• 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder: Enhances the chocolate flavor without adding a coffee taste.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• 1 cup chocolate chips: Adds melty chocolate pockets throughout the brownie.
• ½ cup creamy peanut butter: For a rich, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with chocolate.
• Vanilla ice cream, for serving: The perfect accompaniment to these warm brownies.

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Cast-iron skillet: Ideal for even baking and achieving crispy edges.
• Mixing bowl: For combining all the ingredients easily.
• Whisk: To blend the wet ingredients smoothly.
• Spatula: For folding in the dry ingredients and spreading the batter.
• Oven: Preheated to ensure even baking.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Skillet Brownie.: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Preheat your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your brownie cooks evenly.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

In your cast-iron skillet, melt the 1 cup of unsalted butter over low heat. Stir gently until fully melted, then remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Combine Sugars

Add 1 cup of sugar and 1 cup of dark brown sugar to the melted butter. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs and Vanilla

Add the lightly beaten eggs and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Whisk until smooth and well incorporated.

Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, ¾ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 tablespoon of instant espresso powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Add Chocolate Chips and Peanut Butter

Fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips and ½ cup of creamy peanut butter until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 7: Bake

Spread the brownie batter evenly in the skillet. For an extra touch, sprinkle more chocolate chips on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow the brownie to cool in the skillet for about 10 minutes. Serve warm, preferably with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Enjoy this delightful Chocolate Peanut Butter Skillet Brownie!

Better Choices & Swaps

• Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
• Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour for a gluten-free version.
• Opt for dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor and less sugar.
• Add nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.

If You’re Curious

The addition of espresso powder in this Chocolate Peanut Butter Skillet Brownie may seem unusual, but it enhances the chocolate flavor immensely. It doesn’t make the brownies taste like coffee, but instead, it deepens the chocolate notes, making each bite even more indulgent. If you’re not a fan of espresso, you can omit it without any loss in flavor.

Shelf Life & Storage

These brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. If you want to keep them even longer, consider freezing individual pieces wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just reheat them in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy!

Your Questions, Answered

Can I make this brownie without a skillet?

Yes, you can use a standard 9×13-inch baking pan instead. Just adjust the baking time to around 20-25 minutes.

How do I know when the brownies are done?

The brownies are done when the edges look set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Can I add more chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to add more chocolate chips for an extra chocolaty treat. You can even use different types of chocolate for added flavor.

What can I serve with these brownies?

These brownies are delightful on their own but are even better with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

What to Make After This

• Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Classic Chocolate Cake
• Decadent Fudge Brownies
• Chocolate Lava Cake

That’s a Wrap

There you have it! A deliciously gooey and rich Chocolate Peanut Butter Skillet Brownie that is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. With its simple preparation and delightful flavors, this dessert is perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it warm right out of the oven or as a decadent midnight snack, each bite is a true treat. So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in this delectable creation!