Name: Swirled Peanut Butter Fudge Brownies
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup peanut butter (natural, unsweetened or sweetened); 1/4 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 cup mashed banana (or unsweetened applesauce); 1/4 cup pure maple syrup or honey; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

These Swirled Peanut Butter Fudge Brownies are a rich, fudgy dream with intense chocolate flavor and a creamy peanut butter base. They’re flourless, naturally sweetened, and come together effortlessly in just one bowl. With a short baking time and wholesome ingredients like mashed banana and maple syrup, I love making this recipe when I want something indulgent but simple. It’s a healthier twist on a classic brownie with no compromise on taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these brownies hit all the right notes—rich, chocolatey, and wonderfully moist. Since there’s no flour, they’re naturally gluten-free, and the use of mashed banana or applesauce keeps them soft without needing any oil. The one-bowl prep makes clean-up easy, and I can even make these vegan by using maple syrup and dairy-free chocolate chips. They’re perfect when I want a guilt-free dessert that still feels indulgent.

Ingredients

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

1/2 cup peanut butter (natural, unsweetened or sweetened)

1/4 cup cocoa powder

1/2 cup mashed banana (or unsweetened applesauce)

1/4 cup pure maple syrup or honey

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/3 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

Directions

I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

In a medium bowl, I stir together the peanut butter, cocoa powder, mashed banana, maple syrup (or honey), baking soda, salt, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and combined.

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

I pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly.

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

I let the brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing to get the best texture.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 8 brownies.

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Calories: 110 kcal per brownie

Variations

I sometimes use almond butter instead of peanut butter for a different flavor profile.

For a richer chocolate flavor, I add extra cocoa powder or a sprinkle of espresso powder.

To make it vegan, I use maple syrup and dairy-free chocolate chips.

I’ve also tried swirling a bit of extra peanut butter on top before baking for a beautiful marbled effect.

If I want more texture, I throw in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans.

Storage/Reheating

I store these brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, I keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. They also freeze well—just wrap them individually and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. I let them thaw at room temperature or warm them briefly in the microwave for that just-baked taste.

Related Recipes:

Cheesecake Swirled Brownies

FAQs

How can I make these brownies vegan?

I use maple syrup instead of honey and opt for dairy-free mini chocolate chips. That makes the entire recipe plant-based.

Can I substitute the banana?

Yes, I often swap the banana for unsweetened applesauce in equal amounts. It changes the flavor slightly but keeps the texture moist.

What type of peanut butter works best?

I use natural peanut butter, either sweetened or unsweetened. Just make sure it’s stirred well so it’s not too oily or dry.

Are these brownies suitable for kids?

Absolutely. I like that they’re naturally sweetened and flourless, making them a healthier treat option for kids.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, I double the ingredients and bake them in an 8×8-inch pan. The baking time may need to increase by 5–10 minutes, so I always check for doneness with a toothpick.

Conclusion

These Peanut Butter Fudge Brownies are everything I want in a quick and satisfying dessert. Rich, fudgy, and packed with chocolate flavor, they come together in minutes and are made with wholesome ingredients I usually have on hand. Whether I’m baking for myself, my family, or a gathering, these always hit the spot—and no one ever guesses how healthy they actually are.

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