Whole-Wheat Peanut Butter Brownie Bars

Just in time for Valentine's Day, I've got the perfect homemade treat for you! These Peanut Butter Brownie Bars would also make a fun little treat to share.

Ingreadient

• ½ cup sugar
• ½ cup whole-wheat flour
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (I highly prefer the super dark variety)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon baking powder
• 1 stick butter (melted)
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ½ cup chocolate chips
• 1 cup peanut butter (could sub almond butter)
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons butter (melted)
• 1 egg
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ cup chocolate chips

Step by step

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line an 8 x 8 or 9 x 9 inch square baking dish with parchment paper and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Make a well (hole) in the center and drop in the butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix together thoroughly and then fold in the chocolate chips with a rubber spatula. Spread in one even layer on the bottom of the parchment-lined baking dish.
3. In another large bowl, mix together everything except the chocolate chips until thoroughly combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
4. Carefully spread on top of the brownie layer in the baking dish. I find it’s best to drop clumps in various locations on top of the brownie batter to help get an even spread without mixing the two together.
5. Bake until golden brown on top, about 30 to 35 minutes. Let cool. Holding the parchment paper, lift out of the pan. Cut into squares and enjoy!