✅ Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with non-stick spray. This helps for easy removal later.

✅ Step 2: Make the Brownie Base

In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in sugar and cocoa powder until smooth. Let cool slightly. Add vanilla and eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.

Stir in flour, baking powder, and salt. Fold in chocolate chips if using.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth out evenly. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs. Do not overbake. Cool completely before adding the next layer.

✅ Step 3: Mix the Peanut Butter Filling

In a large bowl, beat together peanut butter and softened butter until creamy. Add powdered sugar gradually, mixing until fully incorporated. Add vanilla and a pinch of salt.

Spread the peanut butter mixture evenly over the cooled brownies. Use an offset spatula to get a smooth layer. Chill in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes.

✅ Step 4: Prepare the Ganache

Heat heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer (not boil). Remove from heat and add chocolate chips and butter. Let sit for 2–3 minutes, then stir until smooth and shiny.

✅ Step 5: Assemble and Chill

Pour the ganache over the peanut butter layer and spread it evenly. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before slicing for clean layers.