Fudgy Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownie Cookies: The Easiest Boxed Mix Recipe
Discover the delightful world of Fudgy Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownie Cookies, a truly irresistible treat that combines the best of fudgy brownies, rich chocolate, and creamy peanut butter. Originally gaining fame as a standout recipe from the 2004 Pillsbury Bake-Off, these cookies, affectionately known as Brownie Peanut Butter Cookies, offer an incredibly simple yet profoundly satisfying baking experience. The secret to their effortless preparation lies in using a convenient brownie mix, transforming ordinary ingredients into extraordinary cookies with minimal fuss.
Imagine soft, chewy chocolate cookie bases, each crowned with a luscious peanut butter center, then enrobed in a smooth chocolate frosting or ganache. This recipe simplifies the baking process: you merely combine the brownie mix with a few essential ingredients to form a pliable cookie dough. This dough is then shaped into perfect balls, topped with a rich peanut butter mixture, baked to perfection, and finally, frosted. Whether you opt for the ultimate convenience of canned frosting or the gourmet touch of homemade chocolate ganache, these cookies promise a decadent experience that’s surprisingly easy to achieve.
For those who enjoy baking from scratch, a homemade version of these cookies was once a consideration. However, after extensive testing and a side-by-side comparison between the scratch-made cookies and their boxed brownie mix counterparts, the verdict was clear: the brownie mix rendition delivered an equally delightful flavor and texture, proving that convenience doesn’t always mean compromising on quality. This discovery reinforced the beauty of this recipe – exceptional taste with minimal effort, making it a go-to for busy bakers and dessert enthusiasts alike.
Canned Frosting vs. Homemade Ganache: The Ultimate Topping Debate
One aspect of the original Pillsbury Bake-Off brownie mix cookies that initially presented a slight reservation was the use of canned chocolate frosting. While perfectly acceptable and incredibly convenient – aligning with the contest’s focus on utilizing eligible packaged products – the choice of topping offers a fantastic opportunity for personalization and enhancement. For those seeking maximum ease, canned frosting remains a viable and delicious option, delivering a quick and satisfying finish.
However, if you’re looking to elevate your Fudgy Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownie Cookies, venturing into homemade ganache is a game-changer. Despite its sophisticated name, chocolate ganache is surprisingly simple to prepare, requiring just two ingredients: heavy cream and chocolate. Heating the cream and pouring it over chopped chocolate (or chocolate chips) allows the chocolate to melt into a silky-smooth, pourable, or spreadable glaze. This takes only minutes and results in a richer, more intensely chocolatey topping that truly complements the fudgy cookie and creamy peanut butter.
Alternatively, for an even quicker yet equally satisfying finish, consider topping your baked cookies with good quality melted dark or milk chocolate. The process is as straightforward as melting your favorite chocolate bar or squares and drizzling or spreading it over the cooled cookies. The cookies featured in the accompanying photo, for instance, are beautifully topped with melted Dove Dark squares, demonstrating how a simple choice can make a significant difference in both taste and presentation. The choice is yours: convenience, gourmet flair, or elegant simplicity – all lead to delicious results.
Choosing Your Brownie Mix for Perfect Fudgy Brownie Cookies
The original Pillsbury Bake-Off recipe specifically calls for Pillsbury Family Size Chocolate Fudge Brownie Mix. This particular mix is known for yielding incredibly fudgy results, which is ideal for these cookies. However, don’t feel limited if you can’t find this exact variety or prefer another brand. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability.
Most standard brownie mixes will work wonderfully, provided the box contains between 17 and 19 ounces of mix. Look for “fudge brownie mix” to ensure that dense, chewy texture we’re aiming for. Brands like Betty Crocker, Duncan Hines, or even store-brand equivalents often offer excellent chocolate fudge options within this weight range. While some mixes might include a “fudge packet” to be added separately, the recipe below accounts for this – simply incorporate it along with the other wet ingredients. Experimentation with different brands can be a fun way to discover your personal favorite for these delightful Brownie Peanut Butter Cookies.
An Innovative Approach: Alternative Brownie Peanut Butter Cookie Preparation
For those who love to experiment or prefer a slightly different approach, an alternative method for making Brownie Peanut Butter Cookies offers a unique twist. This method, discovered serendipitously, involves baking the fudge brownie dough without the peanut butter mixture initially. The idea is to create a soft brownie cookie base first, then introduce the peanut butter element post-bake.
Here’s how it works: prepare your brownie dough as instructed, but instead of topping it with peanut butter balls before baking, simply form the brownie dough into cookies and bake them. While the brownie cookies are in the oven, quickly form your peanut butter mixture into balls. As soon as the fudgy brownie cookies emerge from the oven, still warm and pliable, gently press a ball of the prepared peanut butter mixture right on top of each one. The residual heat from the cookies will slightly soften the peanut butter, allowing it to meld beautifully without cooking. Allow the cookies to cool completely, or for a quicker set, pop them into the freezer for a short period. Once cooled and set, you can then proceed to top them with your preferred frosting, ganache, or melted chocolate. This method can sometimes result in an even softer peanut butter center and offers a slightly different texture dynamic, making it a great variation to try.
Tips for Perfect Fudgy Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownie Cookies
- Don’t Overmix the Brownie Dough: Stir until just combined to ensure a fudgy, not cakey, texture. Overmixing can develop gluten, leading to tougher cookies.
- Chill Your Dough: Chilling both the brownie and peanut butter dough is crucial. This helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking and makes them easier to handle and shape.
- Portion Evenly: Use a cookie scoop for the brownie dough and aim for uniform peanut butter balls. This ensures consistent baking and a professional appearance.
- Don’t Overbake: Brownie cookies can go from perfectly fudgy to dry very quickly. Bake until the edges are just set, but the centers still look slightly soft. They will continue to set as they cool.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Softened butter, cream cheese, and a room temperature egg for the brownie dough will blend together more smoothly, creating a uniform batter.
- Quality Ingredients: While using a boxed mix, don’t skimp on the quality of your peanut butter or chocolate for the ganache/topping. It truly makes a difference in the final flavor.
Serving Suggestions and Storage
These Fudgy Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownie Cookies are a showstopper on their own, but a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can enhance the chocolate and peanut butter flavors beautifully. They pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk, a hot cup of coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra decadent dessert. Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, they freeze exceptionally well for up to 2-3 months, allowing you to enjoy a delicious treat whenever the craving strikes.
- Craving more chocolate? Try these amazing Chocolate Brownie Cookies
- For a different texture, check out Peanut Butter Chocolate Chunk Brownies with Chocolate Ganache
- If you enjoy easy baking, you might also like this Canned Cherry-Berry Pie
- Another peanut butter favorite: Peanut Butter Fudge Brownies
- Or try these delightful Melted Chocolate Chip Brownies
Recipe: Fudgy Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownie Cookies
Brownie Peanut Butter Cookies
Anna
Pin Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted or salted butter softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- 4 ounces cream cheese softened, contributes to the fudgy texture of the cookies.
- 1 large egg at room temperature, helps bind the dough and adds moisture.
- 1 box fudge brownie mix 17.6-19 oz, specifically a fudge variety for the best texture.
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter for the luscious peanut butter filling.
- 1 cup powdered sugar also known as confectioners’ sugar, to sweeten the peanut butter mixture.
Ganache (Optional, for a gourmet topping)
- ¼ cup heavy whipping cream creates a smooth and rich ganache.
- ¾ cup semisweet chocolate chips or 6 oz finely chopped chocolate of good quality for best results.
- ½ cup lightly salted roasted peanuts coarsely chopped (optional, for added texture and flavor).
Instructions
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The original version of this delightful recipe used a box of Pillsbury brand Family Size Fudge Brownie Mix. Feel free to use your preferred brand as long as it falls within the 17.6-19 oz range.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, cream cheese, and egg. If your brownie mix includes a separate fudge packet, add that in at this stage as well. Stir these ingredients together until they are well-combined and creamy. Next, add the entire box of brownie mix and stir carefully until the dry ingredients are just incorporated into the wet. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies.
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Using a small cookie scoop or a spoon, portion out 24 equal amounts of the brownie dough. Place these portions onto a tray or plate that can fit comfortably in your refrigerator. Chill the brownie dough for approximately 30 minutes. This chilling period is crucial as it helps the dough firm up, making it much easier to shape into neat, round balls without sticking.
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While the brownie dough is chilling, prepare the peanut butter filling. In a separate bowl, beat together the creamy peanut butter and powdered sugar. Mix until you achieve a smooth, well-combined, and slightly firm dough. Once ready, divide the peanut butter mixture into 24 equal balls. For best results and to prevent excessive spreading during baking, place these peanut butter balls into the freezer for 30 minutes to firm up.
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper. Parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
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Once both the brownie dough and the peanut butter dough are sufficiently chilled and firm, it’s time to assemble your cookies. Roll each portion of brownie dough into a neat ball. Arrange these brownie dough balls about 2 ½ inches apart on your prepared baking sheets, allowing room for them to spread slightly. Take one of the frozen peanut butter balls and gently press it into the center of each brownie dough ball, pressing down slightly to ensure it adheres.
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Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges appear crisp and set, but the centers still look slightly soft and fudgy. Avoid overbaking to maintain their signature fudgy texture. Once baked, remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheets for 2-3 minutes. This allows them to set further before you carefully transfer them to a wire cooling rack to cool completely.
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Prepare your chocolate ganache (or use canned frosting/melted chocolate). Pour the heavy cream into a 2-cup liquid measuring cup or a small, microwave-safe bowl. Heat the cream in the microwave for about 30 seconds, or until it’s hot but not boiling. Add the semisweet chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate) to the hot cream. Let it sit undisturbed for 2 minutes to allow the chocolate to melt thoroughly. Then, gently stir the chocolate mixture until it is completely smooth, glossy, and well-combined into a rich ganache. Spread about 1 tablespoon of this decadent chocolate mixture evenly over the top of each cooled cookie. If desired, sprinkle with coarsely chopped, lightly salted roasted peanuts for an extra crunch and savory counterpoint. Serve these irresistible cookies immediately or store them for later enjoyment.
In conclusion, these Fudgy Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownie Cookies are more than just a dessert; they are a celebration of simplicity and flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, this recipe, originating from the esteemed Pillsbury Bake-Off, offers a foolproof way to create a treat that will delight everyone. The combination of chewy brownie, creamy peanut butter, and rich chocolate makes for an unforgettable bite every time. So grab your favorite brownie mix, follow these straightforward steps, and get ready to enjoy one of the most satisfying cookies you’ll ever make!