Peanut Butter Cheesecake Brownies are the ultimate indulgence for peanut butter and chocolate lovers. This mouthwatering dessert combines rich and fudgy brownies with a creamy peanut butter cheesecake filling, creating a delightful combination of flavors and textures.

The history of peanut butter can be traced back to the late 19th century when it was first patented as a protein source for patients with poor teeth who couldn’t chew meat. It became popular as a nutritious and tasty food and was commercialized by George Washington Carver, a prominent agricultural scientist, and inventor. Peanut butter quickly gained popularity and has since become a staple in many households worldwide.

Brownies, on the other hand, have a more recent history, believed to have originated in the United States during the late 19th century. There are various theories about the creation of brownies, but the most widely accepted one is that they were a result of a baker’s mistake. The baker forgot to add baking powder to a chocolate cake batter, resulting in a denser and fudgier texture. This accidental creation was loved by customers and thus became known as the brownie.

The combination of peanut butter and chocolate has been a classic favorite for decades, and incorporating them into brownies with a luscious cheesecake filling is a modern twist on the classic dessert. The peanut butter cheesecake brownies offer a delightful contrast of flavors, combining the sweetness of the brownie with the creamy and nutty taste of peanut butter cheesecake, making it an irresistible treat for any dessert lover.

INGREDIENTS

Brownie Layer:

• 1 cup natural peanut butter, smooth
• ½ cup maple syrup
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• 6 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Filling:

• 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
• ⅔ cup maple syrup
• 1 cup natural peanut butter, smooth
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Topping:

• Chopped peanut butter cups

Instructions:

Brownie Layer:

1. Preheat your oven to 325ºF (163ºC) and cut a circle of parchment paper to fit a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients for the brownie base, including the natural peanut butter, maple syrup, egg, melted coconut oil, baking soda, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract. Mix the ingredients until thoroughly combined.
3. Spread the brownie batter evenly over the parchment-lined springform pan.
4. Bake the brownie layer for 15-20 minutes or until the brownies start to puff, but the center remains fudgy. Once baked, set the brownie base aside to cool completely.

Cheesecake Filling:

1. In a food processor or stand mixer, combine all the ingredients for the cheesecake filling, including the softened cream cheese, maple syrup, natural peanut butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until there are no lumps, stopping to scrape down the sides if needed.
2. Refrigerate the cheesecake filling until the brownie base has cooled completely.

Assembling the Peanut Butter Cheesecake Brownies:

1. Once the brownie base is cooled, spread the chilled cheesecake filling evenly over the top of the brownie layer.
2. Refrigerate the assembled dessert for 8 hours or preferably overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the cheesecake layer to set.
3. When you’re ready to serve, top the dessert with chopped peanut butter cups for an extra peanut butter and chocolate delight.

Peanut Butter Cheesecake Brownies are an irresistible dessert that marries the best of peanut butter, chocolate, and cheesecake in every bite. Enjoy these delectable bars as a delightful treat for special occasions, gatherings, or just to satisfy your sweet cravings. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to be a hit with anyone who enjoys the classic pairing of peanut butter and chocolate.