Name: Peanut Butter Fudge Brownies
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup peanut butter (or almond butter); 1/4 cup pure maple syrup or honey; 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce; 2 tsp pure vanilla extract; 1/4 cup cocoa powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp baking soda; 1/3 cup oat flour (or almond flour); 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

Rich, fudgy, and irresistibly gooey — these peanut butter fudge brownies strike the perfect balance between indulgent and wholesome. Naturally sweetened and optionally gluten-free, they come together with simple pantry ingredients and deliver big on chocolatey satisfaction. Whether I’m baking for a quick treat or serving guests, this recipe is always a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy these brownies are to whip up with no mixer required. The combination of peanut butter and cocoa gives them a deep, decadent flavor while the applesauce keeps them moist and chewy. I also appreciate that they’re naturally sweetened with maple syrup or honey, making them a better-for-you treat. Plus, they’re gluten-free friendly, dairy-free, and kid-approved — perfect for any occasion or dietary need.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1/2 cup peanut butter (or almond butter)

1/4 cup pure maple syrup or honey

1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce

2 tsp pure vanilla extract

1/4 cup cocoa powder

1/4 tsp salt

1/3 cup oat flour (or almond flour)

1/4 tsp baking soda

1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

Directions

I preheat my oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a mixing bowl, I stir together the peanut butter, maple syrup, applesauce, and vanilla until smooth.

Then I add cocoa powder, salt, baking soda, and oat flour, mixing until everything is fully incorporated.

If I’m using chocolate chips, I fold them in at this stage.

I spread the batter evenly into a greased or parchment-lined 8×8-inch baking dish.

I bake for 20–22 minutes, or until the top is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.

After baking, I let the brownies cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing to get those clean, sharp edges.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 9 delicious brownies.

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cook time: 22 minutes

Total time: 27 minutes

Calories: 140 kcal per serving

Variations

I sometimes swap peanut butter for almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.

For a protein boost, I add a tablespoon of protein powder and reduce the oat flour slightly.

I love swirling extra peanut butter on top before baking for a marbled effect.

Adding chopped nuts or crushed pretzels gives a delightful crunch.

For a mocha twist, I stir in a teaspoon of instant espresso powder.

Storage/Reheating

I keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For a denser, fudgier texture, I refrigerate them, where they last up to a week. If I want that just-baked warmth, I pop a brownie in the microwave for 10–15 seconds before enjoying.

Related Recipes:

Blueberry Oatmeal Bars

FAQs

How can I make these brownies fully gluten-free?

I simply use certified gluten-free oat flour or switch to almond flour. Both options work well and keep the texture rich and fudgy.

Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes, I freeze them individually wrapped or in a freezer-safe container. They stay good for up to 2 months. When I want one, I thaw it at room temperature or microwave it for 20–30 seconds.

What can I use instead of applesauce?

Mashed banana works in place of applesauce and adds a hint of banana flavor. I also sometimes use Greek yogurt (for non-vegan versions) or pumpkin puree with great results.

Do I have to use chocolate chips?

Not at all. I leave them out if I want a simpler brownie, but when I want extra decadence, I always add them in. Chopped dark chocolate also works beautifully.

Why do my brownies come out too dry?

Overbaking is usually the culprit. I make sure to pull them out when a toothpick comes out mostly clean but still a bit moist. The brownies continue to set as they cool.

Conclusion

These peanut butter fudge brownies are everything I want in a homemade dessert — rich, gooey, naturally sweetened, and full of comforting flavor. Whether I’m making them for a weekday treat or sharing with friends, they never last long. With just a few wholesome ingredients, I get a batch of fudgy goodness that satisfies my chocolate cravings every time.

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