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Step 1: Brownies
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Preheat your oven. Make brownie batter according to box directions; I use the directions for the chewy brownies, not the cake like brownies. Set aside 1/4 of the batter and pour the remaining in the 9 X 13 pan.
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Step 2: Peanut Butter Cream Cheese Topping
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Next, you're going to prepare the cream cheese topping that will go on top of the unbaked mixture.
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In a medium sized bowl, cream the cream cheese and the peanut butter and vanilla. Using a fork will work nicely, especially if you need to work out some aggression. But a mixer will do a nicer job.
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When mixed well into a creamy smooth batter, gently spread the cream cheese mixture on top of the brownie batter. It will not spread perfectly, I'm telling you now. It's OK!
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When the mixture has been spread, dollop by spoonfuls the remaining brownie batter as if making polka dots. With a knife, gently swirl the two batters together up and down the pan without actually mixing them into a muddy mess!
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Bake in oven at the box brownie temperature...I usually take 3-4 minutes off the baking time so as not to overcook and to maintain a moist brownie! When brownies are done, let cool on a counter top for about an hour. Don't fret, this will be worth it!
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Step 3: Peanut Butter Frosting
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Again with a mixer or a fork and bowl, mix together 1 cup of peanut butter, 2/3 cup confectioner's sugar, 1 tsp. vanilla and half a stick of softened butter (if you forgot to soften it, pop it in the micro for about 20 seconds).
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Spread over the cooled brownie evenly. Pop in the fridge for an hour to set. Now you're ready for the final topping!
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Step 4: Chocolate Frosting
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In a microwave safe bowl, pour 3/4 of the bag of chocolate chips. Heat for 30 seconds at first; then test quickly with spoon to see if it will stir smooth. If not, add another 15 sec. or so.
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Then remove from micro and quickly add all 8oz. of the sour cream and stir with a spoon. Then add 3 tablespoons of the confectioner's sugar and mix till well blended and smooth.
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Spread the frosting over the set peanut butter layer. Return to the fridge for an hour.
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If you're in a hurry, put in freezer for about a half hour to set it. Use a sharp knife to cut into generous pieces. Keep unused brownies in fridge. They usually do fine if left out for a half hour or so if you are serving to company. YUMMY!
