Peanutbutter Brownies with Marshmallow frosting

Peanutbutter Brownies

These brownies are top notch! You could substitute the peanutbutter with practically anything you want so they are very versatile. I usually double this recipe because they are gone pretty quickly. 

Brownies:

Cooking spray

1 cup butter

1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

2 cups granulated sugar

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

4 large eggs

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Topping:

One 16-ounce jar creamy peanut butter

Frosting:

1/2 cup butter

10 large marshmallows

4 cups powdered sugar, or more for a thicker frosting

1/3 cup whole milk

1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

Method

Brownies: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray a 9x13-inch pan well with cooking spray or line with parchment.

     In a small saucepan, combine the butter and cocoa. Set over low heat until the butter melts, then whisk together with the cocoa. Set aside to cool for about 5 minutes.

     In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the granulated sugar, flour, and salt. Add the  cooled cocoa/butter mixture and beat on medium speed until well blended, about 2 minutes. Slowly add the eggs and vanilla and mix until well incorporated.

      Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared pan. Bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs, 20 to 22 minutes.

     Let the brownies cool completely, about 30 minutes.

Topping: Soften the peanut butter by placing it in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave for about 15 seconds. Stir the peanut butter well to distribute the heat evenly. Spread it on top of the brownies. Freeze the brownies for at least 30 minutes.

Frosting: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter and marshmallows over medium heat. Add the powdered sugar, milk, and cocoa and stir until smooth. (For a thicker frosting, add a little more powdered sugar.)

     Spread the frosting over the peanut butter and freeze for 30 minutes.

     Cut into 24 squares. Keep refrigerated.