Mediterranean Midnight Peanut Butter Delight
Rich, indulgent, and impossible to resist—this dessert brings together the classic comfort of fudgy brownies with a smooth, nutty peanut butter filling. It’s perfect for late-night cravings or when you need something deeply satisfying without being overly complicated. The blend of dark cocoa and creamy peanut butter gives it that “just-one-more-bite” quality.
Total Time: 50 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Cooling Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients
For the Brownies:
½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted
1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs
¾ cup (95 g) all-purpose flour
½ cup (50 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
¼ tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp baking powder
For the Peanut Butter Filling:
½ cup (120 g) creamy peanut butter
¼ cup (30 g) powdered sugar
2 tbsp (30 g) unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it with olive oil or nonstick spray.
Make the brownie batter:
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth and glossy.
Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, mix the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined—do not overmix.
Prepare the peanut butter filling:
In another bowl, stir together the creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and melted butter until smooth.
The mixture should be thick but spreadable; if it’s too firm, microwave it for 10–15 seconds.
Layer the brownies:
Spread half of the brownie batter evenly in the pan.
Dollop the peanut butter filling over the first layer, then gently spread it out.
Pour the remaining brownie batter on top and smooth the surface with a spatula.
Bake:
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
Do not overbake—slightly underdone brownies stay fudgy and moist.
Cool and serve:
Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
For cleaner cuts, chill them briefly in the fridge before serving.
Tips & Variations
For Perfect Fudgy Texture:
Don’t overmix the batter once you add the flour. Overmixing activates the gluten, making brownies cakey instead of dense and fudgy.
Pull the brownies from the oven when the center still looks slightly soft—they’ll continue to set as they cool.
For a More Intense Chocolate Flavor:
Use Dutch-processed cocoa powder for a deeper color and smoother flavor.
Stir in a handful of dark chocolate chips or chopped chocolate before baking for extra richness.
For a Creamier Peanut Butter Layer:
Use a natural creamy peanut butter (not the runny kind) for a thicker texture.
Add a tablespoon of cream cheese to the filling for a cheesecake-like twist.
Make It Mediterranean-Inspired:
Drizzle the top with honey before baking for a subtle sweetness that complements the peanut butter.
Sprinkle sea salt flakes or crushed pistachios on top after baking for a Mediterranean nutty flair.
Gluten-Free Option:
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. The texture stays just as rich.
Storage & Serving:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
Warm a slice in the microwave for 10–15 seconds before serving for that fresh-baked softness.
Pair with a scoop of vanilla gelato or Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey for a balanced dessert.
Variations:
Espresso Brownies: Add 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the brownie batter for a mocha twist.
Nutty Crunch: Mix in chopped hazelnuts, almonds, or walnuts for texture.
Coconut Dream: Add a tablespoon of shredded coconut to the peanut butter filling for a tropical flavor.
Q&A
Q: Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, absolutely. Crunchy peanut butter adds a pleasant texture to the filling. Just make sure it’s well mixed before spreading so it layers smoothly.
Q: How do I know when the brownies are done?
Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter), they’re ready. Brownies continue cooking slightly as they cool.
Q: Can I skip the peanut butter layer?
You can, but it’s what makes this dessert special. If you want a lighter version, swirl a few spoonfuls of peanut butter into the top layer instead of a full filling.
Q: What’s the best way to cut neat brownie squares?
Cool completely before slicing, and use a clean, sharp knife. Wipe the blade between cuts to keep the edges tidy.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. These brownies taste even better the next day as the flavors settle. Store them covered at room temperature or chilled for a firmer texture.
Nutrition
(per serving, based on 12 pieces)
Calories: ~290 kcal
Protein: 5 g
Carbohydrates: 32 g
Fat: 16 g
Saturated Fat: 7 g
Sugar: 22 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sodium: 140 mg
Note: Values may vary depending on the exact peanut butter and chocolate used.
Conclusion
The Mediterranean Midnight Peanut Butter Delight is the kind of dessert that bridges comfort and indulgence. The rich, fudgy brownie base pairs perfectly with the creamy peanut butter filling, creating a balance of sweet, salty, and chocolatey flavors. It’s a dessert that feels nostalgic yet sophisticated—ideal for late-night treats, special gatherings, or a cozy weekend bake. Serve it with a drizzle of honey or a pinch of sea salt for a subtle Mediterranean touch.