Frosted Peanut Butter Brownies

These are yummy and rich - almost fudge-like.  These can be cut into very small squares, making these a great choice for large gatherings or to share. This is a Southern Living recipe that I've made easier by using the brownie mix. I use Betty Crocker's Triple Chunk Brownie Mix.

My kids LOVE these! 

Frosted Peanut Butter Brownies

Frosted Peanut Butter Brownies

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  Coat a jelly roll pan with cooking spray.

2 (21.2 ounce) boxes of brownie mix

Dump both boxes of brownie mix into a large bowl.  Double the ingredients called for on the back on one box and mix according to package directions. Pour into prepared jelly roll pan and bake for about 15 to 20 minutes.

OR - make brownies from scratch -

Brownies from Scratch:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  Coat a jelly roll pan with cooking spray.

1 cup butter
1/3 cup cocoa
2 cups sugar
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 (18 ounce) jar chunky peanut butter

Cook 1 cup butter and 1/3 cup cocoa in a saucepan over low heat until butter melts, stirring often.
Remove from heat, and cool slightly.
Combine sugar, flour, and salt in a large mixing bowl.
Add chocolate mixture, and beat at medium speed with an electric mixer until blended.
Add eggs and vanilla, beating until blended.
Spread mixture into prepared jellyroll pan.
Bake for about 20 minutes.

Peanut Butter Layer

Spoon peanut butter into a microwave-safe dish.  Microwave for 1 minute on high.  Stir and until smooth and spread over warm brownies.

Chill 30 minutes.

Frosting:

½ cup butter
1/3 cup milk
10 large marshmallows
1/4 cup cocoa
1 (16 ounce) box powdered sugar

Cook butter, milk, and marshmallows in a large saucepan over medium heat, stirring often, until marshmallows melt.
Remove from heat.
Whisk in cocoa; gradually add powdered sugar, stirring until smooth.
Spread over peanut butter layer, and chill 20 minutes.
Cut into squares.