Description

Craving a rich, indulgent dessert that combines the creamy, nutty goodness of peanut butter frosting with the fudgy decadence of chocolate? Look no further than Slow Cooker Peanut Butter Chocolate Dessert with Peanut Butter Frosting! This cozy recipe features a warm, gooey chocolate-peanut butter base cooked effortlessly in the slow cooker, topped with a velvety homemade peanut butter frosting that’s smooth, sweet, and irresistible. The slow cooker makes the chocolate base a breeze, delivering a molten, spoonable texture, while the frosting adds a luxurious finish that elevates every bite.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate-Peanut Butter Base

Brownie Mix (1 box, ~18 oz): Provides a fudgy, chocolatey foundation.
- Substitution: Homemade brownie batter (1 cup flour, 1 cup sugar, ¾ cup cocoa powder, ½ cup melted butter, 2 eggs, 1 tsp vanilla).
Ingredients for Brownie Mix (per package): Typically eggs, oil, and water (e.g., 2 eggs, ½ cup vegetable oil, ¼ cup water).
- Substitution: Applesauce for oil, flax eggs for eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg).
Creamy Peanut Butter (⅓ cup): Infuses the base with nutty flavor.
- Substitution: Almond butter or sunflower seed butter for nut-free.
Peanut Butter Chips (½ cup): Adds melty, nutty pockets.
- Substitution: Chocolate chips or chopped peanut butter cups.

For the Peanut Butter Frosting

Unsalted Butter (½ cup, softened): Creates a creamy frosting base.
- Substitution: Salted butter (reduce added salt) or vegan butter.
Creamy Peanut Butter (1 cup): Provides rich, nutty flavor.
- Substitution: Almond butter or sunflower seed butter.
Powdered Sugar (2 cups): Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
- Substitution: Coconut sugar (blend to powder) or reduce to 1 ½ cups for less sweetness.
Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Adds warm, aromatic depth.
- Substitution: Almond extract or omit.
Milk (1-2 tbsp, optional): Adjusts frosting consistency.
- Substitution: Plant-based milk or heavy cream.

Why They’re Important: The brownie mix and peanut butter chips deliver a fudgy, chocolate-peanut butter core, while the peanut butter enhances richness. The frosting provides a smooth, creamy finish, making each spoonful a decadent, nutty delight.

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate-Peanut Butter Base

In a large bowl, prepare the brownie mix according to package instructions (e.g., mix 1 box brownie mix with 2 eggs, ½ cup vegetable oil, and ¼ cup water). Stir until just combined.
Fold in ⅓ cup creamy peanut butter and ½ cup peanut butter chips until evenly distributed.
Lightly grease a 4-6 quart slow cooker insert with cooking spray. Pour the brownie batter into the slow cooker, spreading it evenly.
- Tip: Use a spatula to fold in peanut butter smoothly. Avoid overmixing batter to keep it fudgy. Ensure chips are evenly distributed for melty pockets.

Step 2: Slow Cook the Base

Cover and cook on high for 2-3 hours, until the center is set but still slightly gooey (a toothpick inserted should have moist crumbs, not wet batter).
Turn off the slow cooker and let the base cool for 15-20 minutes in the insert to firm up slightly. It will remain soft and spoonable.
- Tip: Place a paper towel under the lid to catch condensation and prevent a watery surface. Check doneness at 2 hours to avoid overcooking. The base will thicken as it cools.

Step 3: Prepare the Peanut Butter Frosting

In a large bowl, beat ½ cup softened unsalted butter and 1 cup creamy peanut butter with an electric hand mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes.
Gradually add 2 cups powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until fully combined and smooth. Scrape down the bowl as needed.
Stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract. If the frosting is too thick, add 1-2 tbsp milk, one tablespoon at a time, beating until the desired spreadable consistency is reached.
Set aside or refrigerate if not using immediately (bring to room temperature before serving for easy scooping).
- Tip: Soften butter at room temperature for easier mixing. Adjust milk carefully to avoid a runny frosting. Store extra frosting in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Step 4: Assemble the Dessert Bowls

Scoop the warm chocolate-peanut butter base into 8-10 bowls or dessert cups, creating a gooey layer (about ⅓ cup per serving).
Spoon or pipe a generous dollop of peanut butter frosting over the base, adding a creamy topping (about 2 tbsp per serving).
Garnish with a sprinkle of peanut butter chips, chopped peanuts, or a drizzle of melted chocolate for extra flair.
- Tip: Serve the base warm for a molten texture or chilled for a fudgier consistency. Use a piping bag for a polished frosting presentation. Layer in clear cups for a stunning look.

Step 5: Serve

Serve the peanut butter chocolate dessert bowls warm or at room temperature, garnished with extra peanut butter chips, a drizzle of chocolate syrup, or a pinch of sea salt for a decadent touch.
Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a side of fresh strawberries for a complete dessert experience. Serve with coffee, milk, or a dessert liqueur (like Kahlúa) for an indulgent touch.
- Tip: Present bowls with visible frosting swirls and garnishes for an Instagram-worthy look. Serve immediately for the best texture contrast. Offer extra frosting or chocolate drizzle on the side for customization.