Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped peanuts (optional for extra crunch)
If you’re feeling adventurous, swap out the semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate or even white chocolate chips for a unique twist. And if you’re out of brown sugar, mixing white sugar with a bit of molasses can give a similar depth and flavor.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. As a kid, I always found this step to be the most exciting – it meant we were about to create something delicious!
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Growing up, I learned from my mom that sifting dry ingredients ensures a smoother batter, so don’t skip this step if you can help it.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This was always my favorite part, watching the ingredients transform into a creamy mixture.
- Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well incorporated. The aroma of vanilla always brings me back to those childhood baking days.
- Stir in the peanut butter until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want your brookies to be tender.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and chopped peanuts (if using) until evenly distributed.
- Scoop dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing each scoop about 2 inches apart. I always loved sneaking a taste of the dough at this stage – a little chef’s perk!
- Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers still look slightly undercooked. This ensures that gooey texture we’re after.
- Allow the brookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Waiting is the hardest part, but trust me, it’s worth it!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International