Lemon Blondies

Last Updated September 6, 2024

These bars are like brownies but LEMON.

Chewy, sugary, zingy and bright lemony bar goodness. With a lemony glaze to boot! Some people call these lemon brownies, others lemon blondies. I couldn’t bring myself to say lemon brownies because they’re not chocolatey nor brown, so using the word “brownie” seemed to be sending the wrong signals. Blondie is much more accurate, although if you consider a blondie as having chocolate chips, you must take the notion out of your brain for a moment to fully understand and appreciate these beauties.

It’s really just a blondie recipe with lemon juice and zest added to it, with a wonderfully simple but tart lemon glaze! You can also add lemon extract for extra lemon flavor, but I don’t think they need it. I add more lemon juice than some, which has a more authentic lemon flavor anyway, yeah?

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase using these links, Jennyblogs may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. This helps to support Jennyblogs. For further information see the privacy policy. Grazie!

Recipe adapted from Sugar Spun Run

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Lemon Blondies

Serves about 9

Ingredients:

For the Lemon Blondies

• 3/4 cup / 168g oil

• 1 1/2 cups / 300g sugar

• 1 egg + 1 egg yolk

• 2 Tbsp lemon zest

• 3 Tbsp / 42g lemon juice

• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

• 2 1/2 cups / 300g all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp / 3g cornstarch

• 3/4 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp baking soda

For the Lemon Glaze

• 3/4 cup / 94g powdered sugar

• 1-2 Tbsp / 14-28g lemon juice

• 1-2 tsp lemon zest, optional

Directions:

Make the Lemon Blondies

Preheat oven to 350°F / 177°C. Grease an 8x8 or 9x9inch / 20x20 or 23x23cm square baking pan.

1. In a large bowl, mix together oil, sugar, egg and egg yolk, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla.

2. In another medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, and baking soda.

3. Add flour to lemon mixture and mix until combined. Dough will be thick.

4. Scrape batter into prepared pan and spread in an even layer to the edges.

5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean.

Make the Lemon Glaze

1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and enough lemon juice to make a drizzleable glaze. Pour over lemon blondies, spreading to edges with spatula, if necessary. Sprinkle lemon zest over top, if desired.

2. Allow lemon blondies to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Jenny’s Notes:

• I know it may be hard to resist cutting into these lemon blondies right away, but it’s best to wait until they are cooled to avoid them crumbling on you.

Yield 9

Author Jennyblogs

Prep time

20 Min

Cook time

30 Min

Total time

50 Min

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Lemon Blondies

Chewy and dense like brownies, but lemon instead of chocolate with a zesty glaze!

Cook modePrevent screen from turning off

Ingredients

For the Lemon Blondies

• 3/4 cup / 168g oil
• 1 1/2 cups / 300g sugar
• 1 egg + 1 egg yolk
• 2 Tbsp lemon zest
• 3 Tbsp / 42g lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups / 300g all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp / 3g cornstarch
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp baking soda

For the Lemon Glaze

• 3/4 cup / 94g powdered sugar
• 1-2 Tbsp / 14-28g lemon juice
• 1-2 tsp lemon zest, optional

Instructions

Make the Lemon Blondies

1. Preheat oven to 350°F / 177°C. Grease an 8x8 or 9x9inch / 20x20 or 23x23cm square baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oil, sugar, egg and egg yolk, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla.
3. In another medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, and baking soda.
4. Add flour to lemon mixture and mix until combined. Dough will be thick.
5. Scrape batter into prepared pan and spread in an even layer to the edges.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean.

Make the Lemon Glaze

1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and enough lemon juice to make a drizzleable glaze. Pour over lemon blondies, spreading to edges with spatula, if necessary. Sprinkle lemon zest over top, if desired.
2. Allow lemon blondies to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Notes

I know it may be hard to resist cutting into these lemon blondies right away, but it’s best to wait until they are cooled to avoid them crumbling on you.

Nutrition Facts

Calories

474.05

Fat

20.03 g

Sat. Fat

1.62 g

Carbs

70.33 g

Fiber

1.13 g

Net carbs

69.19 g

Sugar

43.82 g

Protein

4.50 g

Sodium

205.81 mg

Cholesterol

41.16 mg

Nutritional information is approximate. Based on 1 bar if sliced into 9 servings.

https://jennyblogs.com/blog/2020/6/29/lemon-blondies

Lemon Blondies, Lemon Brownies, Lemon bars

dessert

American

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @jennyblogsandbakes on instagram and hashtag it #jennyblogs

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Pumpkin Cheesecake Swirled Brownies

Last Updated August 29, 2024

Happy October!

I realize I’m a tad bit late as it’s almost November, but I’ve been MIA here on the blog for the past 3 weeks. I flew to meet some of my family in Paris and IT WAS A DREAM. All the hugs and jokes, pastries, sight-seeing, adventures, and everything else that happens when in Paris with some Morris family. We fit right in, people kept mistaking us for Parisians with our striped shirts, berets, and flawless French while taking photos constantly. I should probably write a blog about it when I get back.

Just kidding, just kidding.

I already miss my family so much. Nothing like watching your family fly away and suddenly feeling like my 18-year-old self again watching my parents drive away after having helped me move to Mississippi. I miss Paris too. Another thing I really enjoyed was the real fall weather there. Paris weather is actually quite similar to my hometown in Traverse City, Michigan. Except that Paris isn’t under 2+ feet of snow for 4+ months…meanwhile I left Florence still reaching into the high 70’s and 80’s (Fahrenheit), and returned to the same temperatures. In Paris I actually needed the sweaters, coats, boots, and hot beverages and it felt so right. C’mon Firenze, you can do it! Chilly temperatures for some serious fall-ing.

Until Firenze decides to get its act together, these rich chocolate brownies with a spiced pumpkin cream cheese swirl can help out.

While I didn’t bake or blog in Paris (why would I bake when world-class pastries are so cheap and at my doorstep??) I did whip up some autumn and pumpkin goodies and took photos of the blog-worthy ones before coming because I planned ahead! One catch though, I meant to post this WHILE I was in Paris, but that just didn’t happen and I’m ok with it. I was eating pain au chocolat, chaussons aux pommes, and macarons.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase using these links, Jennyblogs may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. This helps to support Jennyblogs. For further information see the privacy policy. Grazie!

A recipe by Jenny.

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Pumpkin Cheesecake Swirled Brownies

Serves 9-12

Ingredients:

For the Brownies

• scant 1/2 cup / 85g oil

• 1 cup / 200g sugar

• 1 egg

• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

• 1/3 cup / 33g unsweetened cocoa powder

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 1/2 cup / 60g all-purpose flour

For the Pumpkin Cheesecake Swirl

• 4 oz / 115g cream cheese, softened

• 1/4 cup / 60g pumpkin purée

• 2 Tbsp / 25g sugar

• 1/4 tsp cinnamon

• dash of ginger

• dash of nutmeg

• dash of cloves

Directions

Make the Brownies

Oven 350°F / 177°C.  Lightly greased 8x8in / 20x20cm pan.

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oil and sugar.  Beat in egg and vanilla.  Add cocoa powder and salt.  Mix in flour until just combined. 

2. Pour into prepared pan and smooth with a spatula.

Make the Pumpkin Cheesecake Swirl

1. In a medium bowl, beat together cream cheese, pumpkin, sugar, and spices until smooth and creamy. This can be done with a spoon or in a stand mixer.

2. Dollop pumpkin cheesecake by spoonful over brownie batter. Use a a knife or the edge of a spatula to smooth and swirl pumpkin cheesecake into brownie batter.

3. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean.  Allow to cool.

Jenny’s Notes:

• The brownie batter and cream cheese will be thick and may stick up in places where it has been swirled, that’s ok, just do your best to smooth it down so everything is mostly level.

Yield 9

Author Jennyblogs

Prep time

20 Min

Cook time

25 Min

Total time

45 Min

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Pumpkin Cheesecake Swirled Brownies

Fudgy chocolate brownies with a spiced cream cheese swirl.

Cook modePrevent screen from turning off

Ingredients

For the Brownies

• scant 1/2 cup / 85g oil
• 1 cup / 200g sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup / 33g unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup / 60g all-purpose flour

For the Pumpkin Cheesecake Swirl

• 4 oz / 115g cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup / 60g pumpkin purée
• 2 Tbsp / 25g sugar
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon
• dash of ginger
• dash of nutmeg
• dash of cloves

Instructions

Make the Brownies

1. Oven 350°F / 177°C. Lightly greased 8x8in / 20x20cm pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine oil and sugar. Beat in egg and vanilla.
3. Add cocoa powder and salt. Mix in flour until just combined.
4. Pour into prepared pan and smooth with a spatula.

Make the Pumpkin Cheesecake Swirl

1. In a medium bowl, beat together cream cheese, pumpkin, sugar, and spices until smooth and creamy. This can be done with a spoon or in a stand mixer.
2. Dollop pumpkin cheesecake by spoonful over brownie batter. Use a a knife or the edge of a spatula to smooth and swirl pumpkin cheesecake into brownie batter.
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean. Allow to cool.

Notes

The brownie batter and cream cheese will be thick and may stick up in places where it has been swirled, that’s ok, just do your best to smooth it down so everything is mostly level.

Nutrition Facts

Calories

277.12

Fat

14.78 g

Sat. Fat

3.39 g

Carbs

28.67 g

Fiber

0.98 g

Net carbs

27.68 g

Sugar

25.76 g

Protein

2.30 g

Sodium

113.35 mg

Cholesterol

33.57 mg

Nutritional information is approximate. Based on 9 servings.

https://jennyblogs.com/blog/2019/9/29/pumpkin-cheesecake-swirled-brownies

brownies, pumpkin spice, pumpkin cream cheese, fall recipe, cream cheese swirled brownies

dessert

American

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @jennyblogsandbakes on instagram and hashtag it #jennyblogs

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Very Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Last Updated August 10, 2024

This post contains affiliate links. If you buy something using these links, Jennyblogs may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. This helps to support Jennyblogs. For further information see the privacy policy. Grazie!

We bakers like to stick to the four main food groups: Chocolate, chooooocolate, chocolat, and cioccolato.  Although we no longer believe, as the Aztecs did, that chocolate is a gift from the gods nor do we throw away the golden goblet once the chocolate drink has been consumed (haven't you heard about recycling?! Sheesh), we'll take it for its taste and possible health properties.  I say possible because it hasn't been scientifically proven yet.  But we know in our hearts, right?  So, let's make some Very Chooooocolate brownies.  And throw in some cherries because it's just about cherry season and I grew up in a cherry town.  National Cherry Festival, anyone?  

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Double Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Makes about 9-12 brownies

Ingredients:

• 6 Tbsp / 85g butter

• 1 1/3 cup / 225g chopped bittersweet or semisweet chocolate bar, or chips

• 3/4 cup / 150g sugar

• 1 tsp / 5g vanilla extract

• 2 eggs

• 1/3 cup / 40g all-purpose flour

• 2/3 cup / 115g bittersweet or semisweet chocolate chips

• generous 1/2 cup / 110g dried cherries

Directions:

Oven 350°F / 177°C.  Grease an 8x8in / 20x20cm square pan.

1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over low heat.  Add the chocolate and stir continuously until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth. 

2. Remove from the heat and add sugar and vanilla.  Beat in the eggs, one at a time.  

3. Add the flour and stir vigorously for about a minute, until the batter turns from grainy to glossy, and starts to pull away from the edges of the pan.  Add chocolate chips and cherries.

4. Pour into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until center isn't quite set or a toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean.  

Jenny's Notes:

• If using semisweet chocolate I prefer to reduce the sugar to 125g or about a generous 1/2 cup. 

• Don't over-bake brownies!  In my opinion, brownies are always better off on the dense, slightly under-baked side than dry or crispy.  

• Nut fan?  Add 1/2 cup walnut, pecans, or your nut of choice! 

Yield 9-12 servings

Author Jennyblogs

Prep time

20 Min

Cook time

30 Min

Total time

50 Min

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Double Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Dense, fudgy, double chocolate brownies loaded with chocolate chunks and tart dried cherries.

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Ingredients

• 6 Tbsp / 85g butter
• 1 1/3 cup / 225g chopped bittersweet or semisweet chocolate bar, or chips
• 3/4 cup / 150g sugar
• 1 tsp / 5g vanilla extract
• 2 eggs
• 1/3 cup / 40g all-purpose flour
• 2/3 cup / 115g bittersweet or semisweet chocolate chips
• generous 1/2 cup / 110g dried cherries

Instructions

1. Oven 350°F / 177°C. Grease an 8x8in / 20x20cm square pan.
2. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. Add the chocolate and stir continuously until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Remove from the heat and add sugar and vanilla. Beat in the eggs, one at a time.
4. Add the flour and stir vigorously for about a minute, until the batter turns from grainy to glossy, and starts to pull away from the edges of the pan. Add chocolate chips and cherries.
5. Pour into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until center isn't quite set or a toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean.

Notes

If using semisweet chocolate I prefer to reduce the sugar to 125g or about a generous 1/2 cup. Don't over-bake brownies! Brownies are always better off on the dense, slightly under-baked side than dry or crispy. Nut fan? Add 1/2 cup walnut, pecans, or your nut of choice!

Nutrition Facts

Calories

387.92

Fat

20.18 g

Sat. Fat

11.93 g

Carbs

54.18 g

Fiber

2.66 g

Net carbs

51.53 g

Sugar

45.56 g

Protein

3.67 g

Sodium

82.56 mg

Cholesterol

61.64 mg

Nutritional information is approximate. Based on 9 servings.

https://jennyblogs.com/blog/2017/6/16/very-chocolate-cherry-brownies

dried cherry brownies, double chocolate cherry brownies, fudgy dense chocolate brownies, chocolate chip brownies, best ever brownies, favorite brownies

dessert

American

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @jennyblogsandbakes on instagram and hashtag it #jennyblogs

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Chocolate Brownie Cookies

Cioccolato Cioccolato Cioccolato!

Don't be fooled, these cookies are nothing more than a chocolate bar with a few added ingredients to allow them to be legally called "cookies."  In trying to decide what to call these, Chocolate Candy Bar Cookies and True Chocolate Cookies were contending, but I can thank some taste testers for calling them out for what they really taste like: fudgy brownies in cookie form!  Oh yes, they be so chocolatey, so fudgy, so soft. 

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase using these links, Jennyblogs may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. This helps to support Jennyblogs. For further information see the privacy policy. Grazie!

Recipe adapted from the Clinton St. Baking Company Cookbook

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Chocolate Brownie Cookies

Makes about 24 cookies

Ingredients:

• 2 Tbsp / 28g oil

• 14 oz / 400g chopped quality semi-sweet or bitter-sweet chocolate

• 2 large eggs

• 3/4 cup / 150g sugar

• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup / 60g all-purpose flour

• 1/4 tsp baking powder

• 1/4 tsp salt

Directions:

Oven preheated to 350°F / 177°C. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper.

1. In a medium saucepan combine oil and 7 oz / 200g of the chopped chocolate, .  Melt over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until chocolate is mostly melted.  Remove from heat and continue to stir until chocolate is completely melted.  Set aside.

2. In a medium-large bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, and vanilla until well combined.  Stir the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture.  It's okay if it is still a little warm. 

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.  Stir flour mixture and remaining 7 oz of chocolate chunks into chocolate mixture until well combined. 

4. Place the bowl with the chocolate mixture in the freezer for 15-25 minutes.  Check and stir the dough every 5 minutes or so until batter has thickened and set up.

5. Drop small spoonfuls of dough evenly spaced on the prepared cookie sheets, leaving about 2 in / 5 cm between the cookies as they will spread quite a bit.  About 12 cookies will fit on a standard sheet.  

6. Bake for 6-8 minutes or until cookies start to crackle and the edges set. 

7. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for several minutes before transferring to a wire cooling rack or plate.  Or counter.  Or mouth.  Whatever floats your boat with these!  Maybe just don't eat all of them or your boat will sink...

Yield 24

Author Jennyblogs

Prep time

45 Min

Cook time

8 Min

Inactive time

25 Min

Total time

1 H & 18 M

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Chocolate Brownie Cookies

Rich, fudgy, chewy chocolate cookies that are mostly made of pure chocolate with just enough other ingredients to politely be able to be called "cookies".

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Ingredients

• 2 Tbsp / 28g oil
• 14 oz / 400g chopped quality semi-sweet or bitter-sweet chocolate
• 2 large eggs
• 3/4 cup / 150g sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup / 60g all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Oven preheated to 350°F / 177°C. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan combine oil and 7 oz / 200g of the chopped chocolate, . Melt over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until chocolate is mostly melted. Remove from heat and continue to stir until chocolate is completely melted. Set aside.
3. In a medium-large bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, and vanilla until well combined. Stir the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture. It's okay if it is still a little warm.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir flour mixture and remaining 7 oz of chocolate chunks into chocolate mixture until well combined.
5. Place the bowl with the chocolate mixture in the freezer for 15-25 minutes. Check and stir the dough every 5 minutes or so until batter has thickened and set up.
6. Drop small spoonfuls of dough evenly spaced on the prepared cookie sheets, leaving about 2 in / 5 cm between the cookies as they will spread quite a bit. About 12 cookies will fit on a standard sheet.
7. Bake for 6-8 minutes or until cookies start to crackle and the edges set.
8. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for several minutes before transferring to a wire cooling rack or plate.

Nutrition Facts

Calories

139.00

Fat

6.53 g

Sat. Fat

3.29 g

Carbs

18.11 g

Fiber

0.63 g

Net carbs

17.48 g

Sugar

14.85 g

Protein

2.06 g

Sodium

48.51 mg

Cholesterol

19.33 mg

Nutritional information is approximate; based on 1 cookie.

https://jennyblogs.com/blog/2016/7/12/chocolate-brownie-cookies

cookies, brownies, chocolate crackle cookies

dessert, cookies

American

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @jennyblogsandbakes on instagram and hashtag it #jennyblogs

Oh, the symphony of crackle!

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Peanut Butter Brownie Trifle

Yes, a trifle, not a truffle.  It is neither a chocolate truffle nor does it require pigs or dogs to dig it up, thankfully.  Although I personally would love to go truffle hunting, or more or less watch the pigs/dogs truffle hunt.  Then eat them, of course.  The truffles, not the dogs or pigs. 

What's the difference between a truffle, a truffle, and a trifle? 

• The original truffle, as I will call it here, is the fungus found in the ground.  There are two main kinds: black and white.  They are difficult to find, hence the need for dogs and pigs, and very expensive.  And divine to eat.  If you haven't eaten one, you definitely should, even if just to say you have.  All your foodie friends will hold you in high esteem henceforth.  ;)

• Then there is the chocolate truffle, which is essentially a chocolate confection made to look like the original truffle.  It usually consists of a ganache (chocolate melted with heavy cream) center, covered in chocolate.  Also delicious. 

• Thirdly, the trifle.  It is originally an English dessert, you could think of it like a large parfait to share.  My mom calls it a "Dump Cake" and in the south it is called a "Husband's Delight."  It usually consists of layers of cake, custard or pudding, whipped cream, and various fruits.  The possibilities of flavors and combinations are endless, and yes, delicious.

The moral of the story is, if someone offers you a truffle, a truffle, or a trifle, always say yes.  Because they are all delicious. 

Today’s trifle is also delicious. It has layers of fluffy peanut butter vanilla pudding, peanut butter chip brownies, and Reese’s peanut butter cups. Each element is simple to make, and homemade. It might dirty several bowls and pans, but it is so worth it! It’s creamy, chocolatey, peanut buttery. It’s rich, a little bit goes a long way. And yet it has you coming back for more. A crowd favorite!

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase using these links, Jennyblogs may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. This helps to support Jennyblogs. For further information see the privacy policy. Grazie!

Recipe adapted from Taste of Home

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Peanut Butter Brownie Trifle

Serves about 12

Ingredients:

For the Vanilla Pudding *Make this first*

• 3 Tbsp / 37g sugar

• 4 1/2 tsp / 11g cornstarch

• 1/8 tsp salt

• 1 1/4 cups / 297g cold milk

• 2 tsp / 10g vanilla extract

For the Peanut Butter Chip Brownies

• 5 Tbsp / 70g oil

• 1 cup / 200g sugar

• 2 eggs

• 1 tsp / 5g vanilla extract

• 1/3 cup / 33g cocoa powder

• 1/2 cup / 60g all-purpose flour

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 3/4 cup / 132g peanut butter chips

Extras

• 1/2 cup / 230g creamy peanut butter

• 1 1/2 cups / 356g heavy whipping cream, whipped until stiff peaks form

• 1 12 oz package / 340g miniature Reese's cups, each cut in half

 

Directions:

Make the Vanilla Pudding

1. In a small saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt.  Gradually whisk in milk. 

2. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until pudding thickens and the whisk leaves a trail. 

3. Remove from heat and add vanilla.  Place a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the pudding and put in fridge or freezer until pudding is thick and set. 

Meanwhile,

Make the Peanut Butter Chip Brownies

Oven preheated to 350°F / 177°C. Lightly grease an 8x8in / 20x20cm baking dish.

1. In a medium bowl, mix together oil, sugar, eggs, and vanilla. 

2. In a separate bowl, whisk together cocoa, flour, and salt.  Stir dry mixture into wet mixture.  Stir in peanut butter chips.  Spread evenly in prepared baking dish.

3. Bake for 12 - 15 minutes or until toothpick inserted off center comes out mostly clean.  Allow to cool. 

Assembly

1. Once pudding is set, mix in peanut butter.  Gently fold in whipped cream.

2. Cut cooled brownies into bite size pieces, about 1in / 2.5cm squares.

3. In a large glass bowl, layer in this order:

   • 1/3 of the brownies

   • 1/4 of the Reese's cups

   • 1/3 of the pudding mixture

   • another 1/3 of the brownies

   • another 1/4 of the Reese’s cups

   • another 1/3 of the pudding

   • final 1/3 of the brownies

   • another 1/4 of the Reese’s cups

   • final 1/3 of the pudding

   • final 1/4 of the Reese’se cups for decoration on top

4. Chill until ready to serve.

Jenny’s Notes:

• Placing plastic wrap directly onto pudding instead of just over the bowl prevents the “skin” from forming.

• Both the brownies and the pudding can easily be made a day ahead.

Yield 12 servings

Author Jennyblogs

Prep time

45 Min

Cook time

15 Min

Total time

1 Hour

Print

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Peanut Butter Brownie Trifle

A rich trifle dessert with layers of whipped peanut butter vanilla pudding, peanut butter chip brownies, and peanut butter cups.

Cook modePrevent screen from turning off

Ingredients

For the Vanilla Pudding *Make this first*

• 3 Tbsp / 37g sugar
• 4 1/2 tsp / 11g cornstarch
• 1/8 tsp salt
• 1 1/4 cups / 297g cold milk
• 2 tsp / 10g vanilla extract

For the Peanut Butter Chip Brownies

• 5 Tbsp / 70g oil
• 1 cup / 200g sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp / 5g vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup / 33g cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup / 60g all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup / 132g peanut butter chips

Extras

• 1/2 cup / 230g creamy peanut butter
• 1 1/2 cups / 356g heavy whipping cream, whipped until stiff peaks form
• 1 12 oz package / 340g miniature Reese's cups, each cut in half

Instructions

Make the Vanilla Pudding

1. In a small saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually whisk in milk.
2. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until pudding thickens and the whisk leaves a trail.
3. Remove from heat and add vanilla. Place in fridge or freezer until pudding is thick and set.

Make the Peanut Butter Chip Brownies

1. Oven preheated to 350°F / 177°C. Lightly grease an 8x8in / 20x20cm baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together oil, sugar, eggs, and vanilla.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together cocoa, flour, and salt. Stir dry mixture into wet mixture. Stir in peanut butter chips. Spread evenly in prepared baking dish.
4. Bake for 12 - 15 minutes or until toothpick inserted off center comes out mostly clean. Allow to cool.

Assembly

1. Once pudding is set, mix in peanut butter. Gently fold in whipped cream.
2. Cut cooled brownies into bite size pieces, about 1in / 2.5cm squares.
3. In a large glass bowl, preferably a cylinder, layer in this order:
4. 1/3 of the brownies
5. 1/4 of the Reese's cups
6. 1/3 of the pudding mixture
7. another 1/3 of the brownies
8. another 1/4 of the Reese’s cups
9. another 1/3 of the pudding
10. final 1/3 of the brownies
11. another 1/4 of the Reese’s cups
12. final 1/3 of the pudding
13. final 1/4 of the Reese’se cups for decoration on top
14. Chill until ready serve.

Notes

• Placing plastic wrap directly onto pudding instead of just over the bowl prevents the “skin” from forming.
• Both the brownies and the pudding can easily be made a day ahead.

Nutrition Facts

Calories

606.07

Fat

41.47 g

Sat. Fat

13.60 g

Carbs

51.17 g

Fiber

3.43 g

Net carbs

47.74 g

Sugar

36.05 g

Protein

13.34 g

Sodium

349.61 mg

Cholesterol

68.20 mg

Nutritional information is approximate; based on 12 servings.

https://jennyblogs.com/blog/2016/7/5/peanut-butter-brownie-trifle

peanut butter,trifle,dump cake, husband's delight, Reese's dessert, chilled dessert, vanilla pudding, whipped cream

dessert, trifle

American

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @jennyblogsandbakes on instagram and hashtag it #jennyblogs

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Peanut Butter Truffle Brownies

Last Updated June 27, 2024

These aren't just any brownies. They are ooey and gooey with a layer of peanut butter truffle, topped with chocolate ganache. Did I mention you can also make the peanut butter truffle layer with Nutella? Well, yes, yes you can. 

Lately I've been experimenting with different takes on brownies. If you've ever compared brownie recipes, you might have noticed that some recipes include a leavening agent, such as baking powder, while others don't, some use melted chocolate in the batter, and others only cocoa powder. 

Which is best? This comes down to personal preference, but if you prefer that fudgy, dense brownie with a rich chocolate taste, I've found the most success without using a leavening agent and plenty of cocoa powder. I couldn't taste a significant enough difference in chocolatey-ness if I included melted chocolate in the batter or not. And for the trouble, I prefer sticking to a quality cocoa powder. Sorry Hershey, you just don't cut it.  (I find their cocoa bland, lacking in that wonderful depth of flavor and buttery-ness that should come from chocolate.)  I love Saco Premium Baking Cocoa, Guittard, and Pernigotti.  I've heard wonderful things about Valrhona, but haven't had a chance to try it yet.  For these brownies, I used Saco.

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Recipe adapted from Some Kitchen Stories

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Peanut Butter Truffle Brownies

Makes about 24 servings

Ingredients:

For the Brownies

• 3/4 cup / 169g oil

• 2 cups / 400g sugar

• 3 eggs

• 3 tsp / 15g vanilla

• 2/3 cup / 67g cocoa powder

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1 cup / 120g all-purpose flour

For the Peanut Butter Truffle

• 1/2 cup / 113g butter (1 stick), room temperature

• 1/2 cup / 130g creamy peanut butter

• 2 cups / 250g powdered sugar

• 2-3 tsp / 10-15g milk

For the Ganache

• 1/4 cup / 65g creamy peanut butter

• 2 cups / 340g semi-sweet chocolate chips

• 1/4 cup / 56g butter (1/2 stick)

• 2 Tbsp / 30g heavy whipping cream

Directions:

Make the Brownies

Oven 350°F / 177°C.  Lightly grease a 9x13in / 23x33cm pan.

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oil and sugar.  Beat in eggs and vanilla.  Add cocoa powder and salt.  Mix in flour until just combined. 

2. Pour into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, until toothpick inserted off center comes out mostly clean.  Allow to cool.

Make the Peanut Butter Truffle

1. While the brownies are cooling, combine butter, peanut butter, and powdered sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer and beat until light and fluffy. 

2. Add in 2 teaspoons of milk and beat.  The mixture should be spreadable.  If not, add another teaspoon of milk.

3. Spread onto cooled brownies and place in the fridge to set the truffle layer. 

Make the Ganache

1. While the filling sets, place a small saucepan with a small amount of water on the stove over low heat.  Place peanut butter, chocolate chips, butter, and whipping cream in a small glass or metal bowl and place over simmering water on the stove. The bottom of the bowl shouldn't touch the water.  Stir just until all the chocolate and butter is melted, and remove from heat.

2. Remove brownies from fridge and spread ganache over the top.  Return to fridge and chill until set.

Nutella Version:

In the Peanut Butter Truffle replace the peanut butter with Nutella and add 1 1/4 cups / powdered sugar with 3/4 cup flour, instead of 2 cups powdered sugar.  Cuts the sweetness since Nutella is sweetened and Peanut Butter usually is not, or minimally so. 

For the Ganache replace the peanut butter with Nutella. 

Proceed as normal.

Jenny's Notes:

• These are rich and delicious, small portions go a long way.  I often cut the recipe in half and bake in an 8x8inch / 20x20cm pan. 

Yield 24

Author Jennyblogs

Prep time

40 Min

Cook time

30 Min

Inactive time

1 Hour

Total time

2 H & 10 M

Print

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Peanut Butter Truffle Brownies

Chocolate brownies with a creamy peanut butter truffle layer topped with rich chocolate ganache

Cook modePrevent screen from turning off

Ingredients

For the Brownies

• 3/4 cup / 169g oil
• 2 cups / 400g sugar
• 3 eggs
• 3 tsp / 15g vanilla
• 2/3 cup / 67g cocoa powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup / 120g all-purpose flour

For the Peanut Butter Truffle

• 1/2 cup / 113g butter (1 stick), room temperature
• 1/2 cup / 130g creamy peanut butter
• 2 cups / 250g powdered sugar
• 2-3 tsp / 10-15g milk

For the Ganache

• 1/4 cup / 65g creamy peanut butter
• 2 cups / 340g semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup / 56g butter (1/2 stick)
• 2 Tbsp / 30g heavy whipping cream

Instructions

Make the Brownies

1. Oven 350°F / 177°C. Lightly grease a 9x13in / 23x33cm pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine oil and sugar. Beat in eggs and vanilla. Add cocoa powder and salt. Mix in flour until just combined.
3. Pour into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, until toothpick inserted off center comes out mostly clean. Allow to cool.

Make the Peanut Butter Truffle

1. While the brownies are cooling, combine butter, peanut butter, and powdered sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer and beat until light and fluffy.
2. Add in 2 teaspoons of milk and beat. The mixture should be spreadable. If not, add another teaspoon of milk.
3. Spread onto cooled brownies and place in the fridge to set the truffle layer.

Make the Ganache

1. While the filling sets, place a small saucepan with a small amount of water on the stove over low heat. Place peanut butter, chocolate chips, butter, and whipping cream in a small glass or metal bowl and place over simmering water on the stove. The bottom of the bowl shouldn't touch the water. Stir just until all the chocolate and butter is melted, and remove from heat.
2. Remove brownies from fridge and spread ganache over the top. Return to fridge and chill until set.

Notes

• These are rich and delicious, small portions go a long way.  I often cut the recipe in half and bake in an 8x8inch / 20x20cm pan. 

Nutrition Facts

Calories

386.73

Fat

23.84 g

Sat. Fat

8.86 g

Carbs

35.36 g

Fiber

2.58 g

Net carbs

32.79 g

Sugar

16.18 g

Protein

4.52 g

Sodium

139.31 mg

Cholesterol

38.06 mg

Nutritional information is approximate; based on 24 servings.

https://jennyblogs.com/blog/2016/5/17/peanut-butter-truffle-brownies

brownies, truffle, peanut butter, ganache

dessert

American

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