Peanut Butter Cheesecake Brownies (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Brownie Base

01 - 1 cup smooth natural peanut butter
02 - 1/2 cup maple syrup
03 - 1 egg
04 - 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil
05 - 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
06 - 6 tablespoons cocoa powder
07 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Peanut Butter Cheesecake Filling

08 - 500g cream cheese (2 packages of 8 ounces), softened
09 - 2/3 cup maple syrup
10 - 1 cup smooth natural peanut butter
11 - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

→ Optional Toppings

12 - 200g chopped peanut butter cups

→ Fudge Sauce

13 - 3 tablespoons maple syrup
14 - 2 tablespoons cocoa powder

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 165°C (325°F). Cut a circle of parchment paper to fit the bottom of a 23cm (9-inch) springform pan.
02 - Mix together all brownie base ingredients until thoroughly combined. Spread the batter evenly over the parchment-lined pan.
03 - Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the brownies start to puff but remain fudgy in the center. Set aside to cool completely.
04 - Combine all peanut butter cheesecake filling ingredients in a food processor or stand mixer. Mix until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides to eliminate lumps. Refrigerate the filling until the brownie base is cooled.
05 - Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the cooled brownie base. Refrigerate for 8 hours or overnight to allow flavors to develop.
06 - Before serving, top with chopped peanut butter cups if desired. For the fudge sauce, mix maple syrup and cocoa powder until smooth, then drizzle over the top.

# Notes:

01 - The flavors significantly improve after a lengthy refrigeration period, so plan accordingly.
02 - This dessert can be served plain or with toppings depending on your preference.