Ingredients:
Brownie Layer (choose one):
- 1 package (21.5 oz) fudge brownie mix (for ease)
OR
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Peanut Butter Layer:
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional, for a thicker consistency)
- 1 tablespoon milk (optional, for a looser consistency)
- 15-18 miniature peanut butter cups
Instructions:
1. Brownie Layer (Box Mix):
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a standard muffin tin with paper or foil liners.
- Following package directions, prepare the brownie batter according to the box instructions.
2. Brownie Layer (From Scratch):
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a standard muffin tin with paper or foil liners.
- In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
3. Assemble the Cups:
- Fill each muffin cup about two-thirds full with brownie batter.
- Unwrap the peanut butter cups and gently press one into each muffin cup, pushing it down slightly so it’s mostly submerged in the batter.
4. Bake:
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs (not completely clean).
5. Peanut Butter Layer (Optional):
- In a small bowl, combine peanut butter, powdered sugar (if using), and milk (if using) until smooth and spreadable.
- Once the brownie cups have cooled slightly, spread a dollop of peanut butter mixture over the top of each brownie cup.
6. Cool and Enjoy:
- Let the brownie cups cool completely in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Store leftover brownie cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Tips:
- For a richer chocolate flavor, use dark chocolate peanut butter cups.
- Want a swirl effect? Before adding the peanut butter cups, spoon a dollop of peanut butter batter on top of the brownie batter and swirl it gently with a toothpick.
- If you don’t have miniature peanut butter cups, you can use chopped regular peanut butter cups or even a dollop of your favorite nut butter.
