Peanut Butter Truffle Brownies with Chocolate Ganache
Fudgy chocolate brownies layered with creamy peanut butter frosting and topped with silky chocolate ganache. These three-layer brownies combine rich cocoa, smooth peanut butter, and melted chocolate for a decadent dessert. The truffle-like ganache topping them beyond basic brownies, making them ideal for special occasions, potlucks, or gift-giving. This version distinguishes itself through its triple-layer construction and careful tempering of each component.
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, unsalted, softened
- 2 cups sugar, granulated
- 3 eggs, large, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, pure
- ⅝ cup cocoa powder, unsweetened
- 1 cup flour, all-purpose
- ½ teaspoon salt, kosher
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ cup butter, unsalted, room temperature
- ½ cup peanut butter, creamy
- 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 teaspoons milk, whole(optional)
- 2 cups chocolate chips, semi-sweet
- ¼ cup butter, unsalted
- 2 tablespoons shortening, vegetable
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream(optional)
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- 2
Line a 9 by 13-inch pan with non-stick foil.
- 3
Melt butter in microwave-safe bowl.
- 4
Mix in sugar, eggs, and vanilla until combined.
- 5
Sift cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder into mixture and stir well.
- 6
Add flour and mix until just combined.
- 7
Scrape batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
- 8
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until set.
- 9
Cool completely on rack.
- 10
Beat peanut butter, butter, and powdered sugar until smooth, adding milk as needed until spreadable.
- 11
Spread filling evenly over cooled brownies.
- 12
Refrigerate filling for at least 30 minutes.
- 13
Melt chocolate chips, butter, shortening, and cream in microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth.
- 14
Spoon ganache over filling and spread evenly with offset spatula.
- 15
Return to refrigerator until ganache is set.
Tips
Cool brownies completely before adding peanut butter filling to prevent it from melting and sliding off the layers.
Stir chocolate ganache every 30 seconds while microwaving to ensure even melting and prevent burning.
Use an offset spatula dipped in hot water and wiped dry for smoother ganache spreading.
Good to Know
Cover and refrigerate up to 5 days. Store in airtight container to prevent drying.
Prepare brownies and filling 1 day ahead. Add ganache topping on serving day for best texture.
Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled. Cut with warm knife for clean edges.
Common Mistakes
Do not overbake the brownie layer to avoid a dry, cake-like texture.
Do not skip the cooling and chilling steps to prevent layers from slipping.
Do not overheat ganache to avoid grainy or broken chocolate.
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
Vegan Options
Nut-Free Alternatives
FAQ
Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Yes, bake brownies and add filling up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate. Add ganache the day you serve for optimal texture and appearance.
What if I don't have shortening for the ganache?
Use an equal amount of coconut oil or additional butter. Shortening helps achieve a smoother, glossier finish, but butter works as an acceptable substitute.
Can I freeze these brownies?
Yes, freeze for up to 3 months in an airtight container with parchment between layers. Thaw at room temperature before serving. Ganache may lose some shine after freezing.