The Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe is an absolute indulgence that perfectly marries the rich, fudgy goodness of classic brownies with the creamy, nutty charm of peanut butter. Imagine biting into a chunk of chocolatey delight with pockets of peanut butter swirling throughout, creating a harmony of flavors and textures that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a comforting treat, this recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a dessert that feels decadent yet familiar. Trust me, once you try this Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe, it’ll quickly become one of your all-time favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe plays a crucial role in delivering that perfect texture and unforgettable flavor. From silky melted chocolate to the luscious swirl of creamy peanut butter, these essentials come together to create a brownie experience that’s both gooey and rich.
- Bittersweet chocolate (4 ounces): Adds deep chocolate intensity for that rich brownie base.
- Unsalted butter (¾ cup): Provides creaminess and helps achieve a fudgy texture; you can swap with neutral oil if needed.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (½ cup): Boosts the chocolate flavor with a slightly bittersweet edge.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the brownies ensuring a balanced taste.
- Brown sugar (½ cup): Gives moisture and a touch of caramel flavor complexity.
- Large eggs (3): Bind everything together and contribute to the rich, tender crumb.
- Pure vanilla extract (1 tablespoon): Enhances all the flavors and adds fragrant warmth.
- Instant espresso powder (½ teaspoon, optional): Intensifies chocolate notes without adding coffee flavor.
- All-purpose flour (¾ cup): Gives structure to keep brownies soft but sturdy.
- Kosher salt (½ teaspoon): Balances sweetness and brings out all the flavors.
- Chopped peanut butter cups (¾ cup): Burst of peanut butter and chocolate in every bite; try Snickers or Butterfinger for variation.
- Peanut butter baking chips (¾ cup): Adds melty pockets of peanut butter flavor throughout.
- Unsalted butter, melted (3 tablespoons): Needed for the decadent peanut butter swirl to create silky ribbons.
- Creamy peanut butter (¾ cup): The heart of the swirl, creamy and flavorful but not the natural kind for best results.
- Powdered sugar (â…“ cup): Sweetens and smooths the peanut butter swirl base.
- Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Boosts the peanut butter swirl with a hint of aromatic depth.
How to Make Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9×9-inch baking pan. Lining the pan with parchment paper using a sling makes it super easy to lift out those perfectly baked brownies after cooling.
Step 2: Melt Chocolate and Butter
Combine the bittersweet chocolate and butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat at 50% power, stirring every 30 seconds, until everything’s melted into a smooth, glossy mixture. This goes beyond just melting; it’s the foundation for that luscious brownie texture you’re craving.
Step 3: Incorporate Cocoa and Sugars
Whisk in the cocoa powder along with the granulated and brown sugars. This step is where the brownies get their rich depth and just the right hint of sweetness, setting the stage for all the delicious layers to come.
Step 4: Add Eggs, Vanilla, and Dry Ingredients
Stir in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract, espresso powder if you’re using it, flour, and salt. Mix gently until everything is just combined to keep the brownies tender and moist.
Step 5: Fold in Peanut Butter Cups and Chips
Gently fold the chopped peanut butter cups and peanut butter baking chips into the batter. This step introduces delightful pockets of peanut butter and chocolate that make each bite surprising and delicious.
Step 6: Make the Peanut Butter Swirl
In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla. Stir just until smooth and combined—avoid overmixing to keep the swirl luscious and easy to dollop.
Step 7: Build the Layers in the Pan
Dollop about two-thirds of the brownie batter into the pan evenly. Then add spoonfuls of the peanut butter swirl on top, before covering with the remaining brownie batter. Use a butter knife to gently swirl the layers together — but not too much or you’ll lose the beautiful marbled effect. Sprinkle extra chopped peanut butter cups and baking chips on top for that irresistible finish.
Step 8: Bake Until Perfect
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. It’s important not to overbake so the brownies stay fudgy and soft. Let them cool completely before slicing, so those swirls set beautifully.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
Want to elevate your presentation? Sprinkle extra chopped peanut butter cups, a drizzle of melted chocolate, or even a light dusting of powdered sugar for a simple but gorgeous finish. A sprinkle of sea salt can add a lovely contrast to the sweet and nutty flavors as well.
Side Dishes
Peanut Butter Brownies are versatile and serve wonderfully alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh berries add a refreshing fruity contrast that cuts through the richness and brightens each bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your brownies as part of a sundae bar where everyone can add toppings like crushed nuts, caramel sauce, or mini marshmallows. For parties, cut into bite-sized squares and arrange on a festive platter with fun toothpicks for easy sharing and extra smiles.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After cooling, store your brownies tightly covered in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. This keeps them moist and chewy, so they’re ready whenever a chocolate-peanut butter craving hits.
Freezing
Peanut Butter Brownies hold up beautifully in the freezer. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to three months. This makes it easy to enjoy a decadent treat anytime without the wait.
Reheating
For a fresh-baked feel, warm your brownies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes. The peanut butter swirls will soften and become extra gooey, making every bite even more comforting.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy?
Natural peanut butter tends to be thinner and less sweet, which can affect the texture of the swirl. For this recipe, creamy peanut butter is best to maintain that soft, luscious filling.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply swap the all-purpose flour with your favorite 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or another binder to keep the brownies from being crumbly.
Can I substitute the peanut butter cups with other candies?
Yes! Feel free to get creative with chopped Snickers, Butterfinger, or even Peanut M&Ms. Each will add a unique flavor and texture that pairs beautifully with these brownies.
What if I don’t have an espresso powder?
Espresso powder is optional, but it really intensifies the chocolate flavor. If you don’t have it, you can simply leave it out; your brownies will still be luscious and rich.
How do I prevent the peanut butter swirl from disappearing during baking?
Be gentle with your swirling technique. Dollop the peanut butter mixture over the batter and swirl softly with just a few gentle movements. Over-mixing will blend everything together and lose the distinct marbled effect.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the comforting hug of chocolate and peanut butter together, and this Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe captures that magic so beautifully. It’s a recipe that feels both special and homey, perfect for sharing or indulging on your own. If you’re ready for a treat that balances nostalgia with a little twist, dive in and bake these brownies—you won’t regret it!
Print
Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 9 to 12 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These rich and decadent Peanut Butter Brownies combine the intense flavor of bittersweet chocolate with a luscious peanut butter swirl, studded with peanut butter cups and chips for a perfect balance of gooey, nutty goodness in every bite. With a tender, fudgy texture and a delightful peanut butter topping, these brownies are an irresistible treat for any chocolate and peanut butter lover.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 4 ounces bittersweet chocolate
- ¾ cup unsalted butter (170 grams, cut into chunks, or substitute with any neutral oil)
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (42 grams, sifted if lumpy)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (200 grams)
- ½ cup brown sugar (107 grams)
- 3 large eggs (150 grams, room temperature)
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract (12 grams)
- ½ teaspoon instant espresso powder (1 gram, optional)
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour (90 grams, use gluten-free if required)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¾ cup chopped peanut butter cups (128 grams, plus more for topping)
- ¾ cup peanut butter baking chips (128 grams, plus more for topping)
Peanut Butter Swirl
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (42 grams, melted)
- ¾ cup creamy peanut butter (203 grams, NOT all-natural kind; almond or sunflower butter work as alternatives)
- â…“ cup powdered sugar (38 grams)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (4 grams)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, creating a sling for easy removal of the brownies.
- Melt Chocolate and Butter: Place the bittersweet chocolate and unsalted butter in a large microwave-safe bowl. Microwave at 50% power, stirring every 30 seconds until fully melted and smooth.
- Add Cocoa and Sugars: Whisk the unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and brown sugar into the melted chocolate mixture until well incorporated.
- Incorporate Eggs and Flavorings: Stir in the eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract and optional espresso powder. Then add the flour and kosher salt, mixing just until combined to avoid overmixing.
- Fold in Peanut Butter Cups and Chips: Gently fold the chopped peanut butter cups and peanut butter baking chips into the brownie batter. Set this mixture aside.
- Make Peanut Butter Swirl: In a separate medium bowl, mix the melted butter, creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Assemble Batter and Swirl: Spoon about two-thirds of the brownie batter into the prepared pan, smoothing it out. Dollop the peanut butter swirl mixture evenly over the brownie batter. Then top with the remaining one-third of the brownie batter. Using a butter knife, gently swirl the two batters together, taking care not to over-swirl. Sprinkle additional chopped peanut butter cups and peanut butter chips on top for extra texture and flavor.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking to keep brownies fudgy.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out with the parchment paper sling. Cut into 9 or 12 squares and serve.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend.
- If you prefer a dairy-free version, swap unsalted butter with a neutral oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips and peanut butter cups.
- Use creamy peanut butter rather than natural varieties to ensure the swirl holds its texture well.
- Do not over-swirl the peanut butter and brownie batters to maintain a defined swirl pattern.
- Let the brownies cool completely before slicing to achieve clean edges.
- Espresso powder is optional but enhances the chocolate flavor.
