This Peanut Butter Brownies a rich and fudgy chocolate brownies swirled with creamy peanut butter create a decadent, sweet-and-salty treat that’s sure to satisfy any dessert craving. These brownies are the perfect combination of indulgent chocolate and nutty peanut butter goodness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how easy it is to make these peanut butter brownies with just a few pantry staples. The contrast between the rich, chocolatey base and the creamy peanut butter swirl is irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a casual family treat or a special occasion, this recipe delivers a crowd-pleasing dessert in under an hour.
Ingredients
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (slightly warmed for easy swirling)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well until fully incorporated.
Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly.
Drizzle the warmed peanut butter over the brownie batter in spoonfuls. Use a knife or skewer to create a swirling pattern.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake.
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 12 brownies
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Calories: 210 kcal per serving
Variations
Nutty Additions: Add chopped peanuts or walnuts for extra texture.
Chocolate Boost: Sprinkle chocolate chips over the batter before baking for an extra chocolatey treat.
Alternative Butters: Use almond or cashew butter instead of peanut butter for a different flavor.
Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Double Batch: Double the recipe and bake in a 9×13-inch pan for more brownies to share.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Freezing: Wrap individual brownie squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating: Enjoy the brownies at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave for a gooey texture.
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FAQs
How do I know when the brownies are done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter), they’re ready.
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but make sure it’s well-stirred to avoid separation, and slightly warm it for easier swirling.
Can I make these brownies dairy-free?
Substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
How do I get perfect swirls?
Drizzle the peanut butter in spoonfuls and use a skewer or knife to create figure-eight patterns without overmixing.
What’s the best way to cut the brownies?
Use a sharp knife, and wipe it clean between cuts for neat, even slices. Let the brownies cool completely before slicing for the best results.
Conclusion
These peanut butter brownies are a delightful mix of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter that come together in no time. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven or as a make-ahead dessert, they’re a guaranteed hit with anyone who loves the classic chocolate-peanut butter combo. Give them a try and elevate your brownie game.
📖 Recipe:
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Peanut Butter Brownies
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 brownies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Rich and fudgy chocolate brownies swirled with creamy peanut butter create a decadent dessert that’s the perfect mix of sweet and salty. Quick to prepare with pantry staples, these peanut butter brownies are irresistible for any chocolate-peanut butter lover.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients:
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Topping:
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter, slightly warmed
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading evenly.
- Drizzle the warmed peanut butter over the batter in spoonfuls. Use a knife or skewer to swirl into a decorative pattern.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Do not overbake.
- Cool the brownies completely in the pan before slicing into 12 squares.
Notes
To ensure smooth swirling, slightly warm the peanut butter before drizzling.
Use high-quality cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor.
For clean cuts, let the brownies cool completely and wipe the knife after each cut.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 brownies
- Calories: 210 kcal
