Peanut Butter Cheesecake Brownie Bites

We were on vacation this week. We always take vacation at this time of year, because October is our favorite month (and the month in which we celebrate our anniversary), and because it's just so beautiful here in New England.

The foliage is peaking, the air is crisp and it's the perfect time for me to get in the kitchen and get baking.

I'm always looking for baked goods that the boys can easily pack in their lunches. They don't get them all the time, but once in a while I like to surprise them by sneaking in a little home made goodie.

These little Peanut Butter Cheesecake Brownie Bites were perfect.

A chocolate brownie nestled around a creamy peanut butter center.



Yes I'm using a boxed brownie mix and it doesn't bother me...in....the....least.

This time of year is also super busy for us. We're making homemade Christmas presents, I'm cooking and baking for my youngster's birthday, which we are celebrating tomorrow, and we are are in the process of remodeling the bathroom. Phew.

Luckily these were a snap to throw together.

Peanut Butter Cheesecake Brownie Bites
recipe from kraftfoods.com
1 pkg (19 to 21oz) brownie mix
1 pkg (8oz) cream cheese, softened
1/3 cup sugar
1 egg
1/4 cup peanut butter
1/2 teaspoon vanilla

Oven to 350. Prepare the brownie mix batter as directed on the package. Spoon into 20 paper-lined muffin cups. I used my small cookie scoop and it was the perfect amount.

Beat the cream cheese, sugar, egg, peanut butter and vanilla in the mixer until blended. Spoon 1 rounded tablespoon into the center of the batter, pressing it lightly into the batter. Bake 30 minutes or until the centers test done.