Few things are as timeless—or as delicious—as the marriage of chocolate and peanut butter. These Peanut Butter Brownies take that match made in dessert heaven and transform it into a chewy, gooey masterpiece. Fudgy brownie base meets creamy peanut butter ribbons in a swirl of rich, sweet perfection.
Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, preparing a weekend treat, or just need a little self-care in edible form, these brownies are your go-to fix.
Drawing from your love for chocolate and peanut butter treats (like the Peanut Butter Brownie Cookies , and Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies) and indulgent desserts (like the Caramel Cookies), these brownies are a must-try. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe
- Deep Chocolate Flavor: Thanks to rich cocoa and melted butter.
- Swirls of Creamy Peanut Butter: Adds visual appeal and incredible taste.
- No Mixer Needed: Just a bowl, whisk, and a craving for dessert.
- Easy to Customize: Add chocolate chips, nuts, or caramel.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for bake sales, potlucks, or late-night cravings.
Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Nonstick cooking spray
- Large mixing bowl (for wet ingredients)
- Medium mixing bowl (for dry ingredients)
- Whisk or spatula (for mixing)
- Sifter or fine mesh strainer (for dry ingredients)
- Butter knife (for swirling peanut butter)
- Microwave-safe bowl (for warming peanut butter)
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 cup 2 sticks unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¾ cup creamy peanut butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
- In a large bowl, mix melted butter and sugar until well combined. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each. Stir in vanilla.
- In another bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients and stir until a thick batter forms.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and smooth it evenly. Warm peanut butter slightly in the microwave (10–15 seconds), then drop spoonfuls over the top. Use a butter knife to swirl the peanut butter into the batter for a marbled effect.
- Bake for 28–32 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let cool completely before cutting into squares.
What you will need + Substitutions
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
Tip: Use salted butter, but reduce added salt slightly. - 2 cups granulated sugar
Option: Use part brown sugar for added moisture and flavor. - 4 large eggs
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
Alternative: Use a gluten-free blend to make these GF-friendly. - 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
Swap: Use Dutch-processed for a deeper chocolate taste. - ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¾ cup creamy peanut butter
Try: Use crunchy peanut butter or almond butter for a twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions with Tips
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease for easy removal.
Tip: Leave overhanging parchment “handles” to lift the brownies out after baking.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter and sugar. Whisk until glossy and smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
Pro Tip: Whisking vigorously helps dissolve sugar and creates a shinier top crust.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually mix into the wet ingredients until a thick, smooth batter forms.
Step 4: Swirl in the Peanut Butter
Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Warm the peanut butter in the microwave for 10–15 seconds until pourable. Drop spoonfuls over the batter and use a butter knife to swirl it throughout for a marbled look.
Swirl Tip: Don’t over-mix; you want distinct ribbons of peanut butter.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 28–32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let brownies cool completely before cutting into squares.
Texture Tip: For extra fudgy brownies, remove from the oven as soon as the center sets.
Topping Suggestions
- Chopped Roasted Peanuts: Adds crunch and enhances the peanut flavor.
- Chocolate Ganache Drizzle: Melted semi-sweet chocolate for decadence.
- Sea Salt Flakes: A sprinkle on top enhances sweetness and adds sophistication
- Powdered Sugar Dusting: Subtle sweetness and elegance.
- Caramel Drizzle: Sweet, gooey contrast.
- Mini Chocolate Chips: Cute and chocolatey topping..
- Mini Peanut Butter Cups: Press into warm brownies right after baking.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Serves 16)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Sugar | 24 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 9 g |
| Cholesterol | 60 mg |
| Sodium | 140 mg |
Note: Values are estimates and may vary with substitutions.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storage:
- Room Temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Refrigerator: Keeps well up to 1 week—great for make-ahead desserts.
- Freezer: Wrap individually in plastic and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
- Microwave: Warm individual squares for 10–15 seconds for a gooey bite.
- Oven: Reheat at 300°F for 5–7 minutes to restore freshness.
Ingredient Substitutions Recap
- Butter → Vegan Butter: Dairy-free richness.
- Eggs → Flax Eggs: Vegan binding alternative.
- Flour → Gluten-Free Flour: Dietary-friendly structure.
- Peanut Butter → Almond Butter: Different nutty flavor.
- Sugar → Brown Sugar Mix: Chewier texture.
What to Serve With Peanut Butter Brownies
- Glass of Cold Milk: A classic combo.
- Hot Coffee or Espresso: Balances the richness.
- Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries contrast beautifully.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy pairing for warm brownies.
- Whipped Cream: Light and sweet topping.
- Hot Chocolate: Rich and cozy complement.
FAQs
How do I know when the peanut butter brownies done?
Look for set edges and a slightly under-baked center. A toothpick should have moist crumbs, not raw batter.
Can I double the peanut butter brownies recipe?
Yes, for a crowd, double ingredients and use a larger pan or two 9×13 pans.
Are gluten-free peanut butter brownies?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to keep them just as fudgy.
How do I get clean brownie cuts?
Cool brownies completely, use a sharp knife, and wipe it clean between cuts. Chilling in the fridge for 30 minutes helps.
These Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies aren’t just dessert—they’re a declaration of love for all things chocolate and peanut butter. From their chewy centers to the perfect marbled tops, they deliver a bakery-quality treat straight from your home oven.
Whether you’re baking for a party, a friend, or just yourself (we don’t judge!), these brownies are sure to impress. Try them once, and they’ll become a forever favorite in your baking rotation.
Tag your creations @recipesgenerators —we’d love to see your swirls!
