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!
