Peanut Butter Brownies Easy Fudgy Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Brownies

If you’re a fan of the classic chocolate and peanut butter combination, these Peanut Butter Brownies will quickly become your go-to dessert. Easy to make yet incredibly indulgent, these fudgy brownies deliver the perfect balance of rich chocolate flavor with creamy peanut butter swirls. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just satisfying a sweet tooth, these brownies offer something for everyone to love. Check out more dessert recipes on our site for more sweet inspiration!

These brownies also offer surprising nutritional benefits when enjoyed in moderation.

• Ease of preparation: These Peanut Butter Brownies require minimal effort and can be prepared in under an hour. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can achieve bakery-quality results. The process involves mixing the batter, creating the peanut butter swirl, and baking no complicated techniques required!
• Health benefits: While brownies are certainly a treat, these Peanut Butter Brownies offer some nutritional benefits. Peanuts are a good source of protein and healthy fats, and dark chocolate contains antioxidants. When made with quality ingredients and enjoyed in moderation, these brownies can be part of a balanced diet.
• Versatility: This peanut butter brownies recipe adapts easily to different dietary preferences and restrictions. With simple substitutions, you can make these brownies gluten-free, vegan, or lower in sugar without sacrificing taste or texture. They’re also perfect for customizing with add-ins like nuts, chocolate chips, or even a sprinkle of sea salt.
• Distinctive flavor: What sets these brownies apart is the perfect balance between the rich, fudgy chocolate base and the creamy peanut butter swirl. The contrast of textures and flavors creates an irresistible treat that satisfies both chocolate lovers and peanut butter enthusiasts. The slight saltiness of the peanut butter enhances the chocolate, making each bite more delicious than the last.

Essential Ingredients for Peanut Butter Brownies

Creating the perfect Peanut Butter Brownies starts with quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that fudgy, rich texture and mouthwatering flavor. Here’s everything you need to make these irresistible treats:

Peanut Butter Brownies Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter – Provides richness and moisture to the brownie base
• 1 cup sugar – Sweetens the brownies and helps create the crispy edges
• 2 large eggs – Adds structure and richness to the batter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour – Gives structure to the brownies without making them cakey
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – Provides deep chocolate flavor
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and enhances chocolate flavor
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter – The star ingredient that creates the delicious swirls
• 1/3 cup peanut butter chips – Adds concentrated peanut butter flavor (optional)
• 1/3 cup chocolate chips – Intensifies the chocolate experience (optional)

Peanut Butter Swirl Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter – Creates the signature swirl pattern
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar – Sweetens the swirl slightly
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened – Makes the swirl smoother and creamier

Bonus: Asian Beef Stir-Fry Ingredients

For a complete dining experience, consider serving these Peanut Butter Brownies as dessert after enjoying this delicious Asian Beef Stir-Fry. Looking for more gluten-free recipes? Check out our collection!

• 500g thinly sliced beef
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 minced garlic cloves
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 200g bean sprouts
• 200g spinach
• 1 thinly sliced onion
• 100g sliced mushrooms
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
• Salt to taste

Special Dietary Options:

• Vegan: Substitute butter with vegan butter or coconut oil, eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg), and use vegan chocolate chips.
• Gluten-free: Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that all other ingredients, especially cocoa powder and vanilla extract, are certified gluten-free.
• Low-calorie: Reduce sugar to 3/4 cup, use a natural peanut butter without added sugar, and consider using applesauce or mashed bananas to replace half the butter. You can also use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol.

How to Prepare the Perfect Peanut Butter Brownies: Step-by-Step Guide

Making these delicious Peanut Butter Brownies is simpler than you might think. Follow this step-by-step guide to achieve perfectly fudgy brownies with beautiful peanut butter swirls every time. The process is straightforward, but paying attention to details will elevate your results from good to extraordinary. If you’re looking for another variation, check out Preppy Kitchen’s peanut butter brownies for additional inspiration!

First Step: Preparation and Mise en Place

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Proper temperature is crucial for achieving the right texture in your peanut butter brownies. Prepare a 9×9 inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides. This overhang will serve as handles, making it easier to lift the brownies out of the pan later. Lightly grease the parchment paper with butter or cooking spray.

For the brownie batter, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over low heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals. Let it cool slightly, then whisk in the sugar until well combined. The mixture will look gritty at first but will become smoother as you continue mixing. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract. This base creates the foundation for your fudgy peanut butter brownies.

Second Step: Mixing the Brownie Batter

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt until thoroughly combined. This step ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and prevents lumps in your batter. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can develop gluten and result in a cakey texture instead of the desired fudgy consistency.

Fold in the chocolate chips and peanut butter chips if you’re using them. These additions create pockets of intense flavor throughout the brownies. The batter should be thick and glossy. Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles, which helps ensure an even texture throughout your peanut butter brownies.

Third Step: Creating the Peanut Butter Swirl

While the oven continues to preheat, prepare the peanut butter swirl mixture. In a small bowl, combine the additional 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and softened butter. Mix until smooth and well blended. The addition of butter and powdered sugar makes the peanut butter slightly softer and sweeter, creating a perfect contrast to the rich chocolate base.

Drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter mixture over the brownie batter in the pan. Use a knife to gently swirl the peanut butter into the batter, creating a marbled effect. Be careful not to over-swirl, as you want distinct ribbons of peanut butter running through the brownies. This technique creates the signature look of peanut butter swirl brownies and ensures that every bite contains both chocolate and peanut butter flavors.

Fourth Step: Baking to Perfection

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The exact baking time may vary depending on your oven, so start checking at the 25-minute mark. Your peanut butter brownies are done when the edges are set but the center still looks slightly underbaked. This slight underbaking in the center is the secret to achieving that perfectly fudgy texture that brownie lovers crave.

Use a toothpick to test for doneness, inserting it into the center of the pan. It should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. If the toothpick comes out completely clean, the brownies may be overcooked. Remember that the brownies will continue to cook slightly as they cool in the pan, so it’s better to underbake than overbake when making fudgy brownies.

Final Step: Cooling and Serving

Remove the pan from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling period allows the brownies to set properly, making them easier to cut. While it’s tempting to dig in immediately, waiting at least 2-3 hours will result in cleaner cuts and better texture. For best results, you can even refrigerate the cooled brownies for an hour before cutting, which helps them firm up even more.

Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan. Cut them into squares using a sharp knife, wiping the knife clean between cuts for neat edges. These peanut butter brownies are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent treat. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

“The secret to the perfect peanut butter swirl is patience when swirling the knife. Just a few gentle movements create the beautiful marbled pattern that makes these brownies so visually appealing.”

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Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Peanut Butter Brownies

One of the wonderful things about this peanut butter brownies recipe is its adaptability. Whether you’re following a specific diet or have dietary restrictions, you can still enjoy these delicious treats with a few simple modifications. Here are some substitutions to help you customize the recipe to suit your needs.

Protein and Main Component Alternatives

If you’re looking to increase the protein content of your peanut butter brownies or need alternatives due to allergies, there are several options available. For those with peanut allergies, almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter can replace peanut butter in both the brownie batter and the swirl. Each alternative offers a slightly different flavor profile but still delivers that creamy, nutty essence that complements chocolate so well.

For a protein boost, consider adding a scoop of your favorite unflavored or chocolate protein powder to the dry ingredients. This works especially well with vegan protein powders, which tend to blend smoothly into batters. Another option is to incorporate a tablespoon of chia seeds or ground flaxseed into the batter, which not only increases protein but also adds omega-3 fatty acids and fiber.

Eggs serve as the primary binder in traditional brownie recipes, but there are excellent alternatives for those who avoid eggs. Flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg), chia eggs (prepared similarly to flax eggs), or commercial egg replacers work well. For a lighter texture, you can also use unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana, though these will add a subtle fruit flavor to your peanut butter brownies.

Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications

While traditional peanut butter brownies contain no vegetables, you can incorporate hidden vegetables for added nutrition without compromising taste. Puréed avocado can replace half the butter, resulting in incredibly fudgy brownies with healthy fats. Similarly, cooked and pureed butternut squash or pumpkin can add moisture and fiber while subtly enhancing the chocolate flavor.

For those watching their sugar intake, there are numerous alternatives to traditional white sugar. Coconut sugar, maple syrup, or honey can be used in equal amounts, though they may slightly alter the flavor profile. For a lower-calorie option, monk fruit sweetener or erythritol can replace sugar completely or partially. When using liquid sweeteners, you may need to slightly reduce other liquid ingredients in the recipe.

Seasonings and flavorings offer another avenue for customization. A pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder can deepen the chocolate flavor, while a drop of peppermint extract creates a chocolate-peanut butter-mint combination. For adults, a tablespoon of coffee liqueur or peanut butter liqueur can add sophistication to the recipe. Just remember that extracts and liqueurs are potent, so start with small amounts and adjust to taste.

Mastering Peanut Butter Brownies: Advanced Tips and Variations

Once you’ve mastered the basic peanut butter brownies recipe, there are endless ways to elevate your baking. These advanced techniques and creative variations will help you create brownies that are not only delicious but also impressive enough for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a special event or simply want to treat yourself, these tips will take your peanut butter brownies to the next level.

Pro Cooking Techniques

For exceptionally fudgy peanut butter brownies, try the technique of sous vide baking. Seal the brownie batter in a vacuum bag and cook in a water bath at 185°F (85°C) for 2-3 hours. This method creates an incredibly dense, fudgy texture with perfectly even cooking. While it requires special equipment, the results are unmatched in texture and consistency.

Another professional technique is the double-bake method. Bake the brownies for 20 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool completely. Return to the oven for 5-10 minutes. This creates a crackly top while maintaining a fudgy interior. For a glossy, crackly top without the double-bake, you can also whip the eggs and sugar together for several minutes until pale and fluffy before adding the melted butter.

Temperature control throughout the baking process is crucial. Invest in an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is accurately calibrated. Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even heat distribution. If your oven has hot spots, consider using an insulated baking sheet or placing a baking sheet on the rack below your brownies to shield them from direct bottom heat.

Flavor Variations

While the classic chocolate-peanut butter combination is hard to beat, there are many delicious variations to explore. For a salty-sweet contrast, add 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt to the peanut butter swirl mixture and sprinkle coarse salt over the brownies before baking. This enhances both flavors and adds an intriguing texture element.

Incorporate different nut butters or combinations for unique flavor profiles. Mix peanut butter with chocolate hazelnut spread for a decadent swirl, or use almond butter for a slightly more sophisticated taste. For a tropical twist, try coconut butter paired with chocolate, or for a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter.

Fold-ins can transform the texture and taste of your peanut butter brownies. Chopped peanut butter cups, salted pretzels, toasted coconut flakes, or even bacon pieces (for a sweet and savory variation) add exciting elements. For an extra rich experience, drizzle melted chocolate or additional peanut butter over the cooled brownies before cutting.

Presentation Tips

Presentation plays a significant role in the overall enjoyment of any dessert. For professional-looking peanut butter brownies, use a hot knife to cut clean, sharp edges. Simply dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry between each cut. For picture-perfect brownies, trim the edges before cutting to reveal the uniform interior.

Consider serving your brownies in individual portions for a special presentation. Use a round cookie cutter to cut shapes from the center of the pan (save the scraps for snacking!), or bake the batter in individual ramekins or a muffin tin for single-serving brownies with crispy edges all around. Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with melted chocolate, or top with a peanut butter cup for an elegant finish.

Make-Ahead Options

Peanut butter brownies are excellent candidates for advance preparation, making them perfect for busy schedules or upcoming events. The brownie batter can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This resting period actually improves the texture, as it allows the flour to fully hydrate and the flavors to meld. When ready to bake, bring the batter to room temperature for about 30 minutes before proceeding with the recipe.

Fully baked brownies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, or place them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for 2-3 hours. For freshly baked taste, warm individual brownies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving.

How to Store Peanut Butter Brownies: Best Practices

Proper storage is essential for maintaining the quality and freshness of your peanut butter brownies. Whether you’re saving them for later or preparing them in advance for an event, these storage guidelines will ensure your brownies remain delicious and ready to enjoy whenever the craving strikes.

Refrigeration

Peanut butter brownies can be stored at room temperature for up to 5 days if the weather is cool and dry. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out. For longer storage or in warm climates, refrigeration is recommended. When refrigerated, peanut butter brownies will stay fresh for up to a week. To maintain the best texture, place a piece of bread or a paper towel in the container with the brownies to absorb excess moisture.

Before serving refrigerated brownies, let them come to room temperature for 30-60 minutes or warm them briefly in the microwave. This softens the solidified fats and restores that freshly baked texture. If you prefer your brownies chilled (which some people find enhances the fudgy consistency), they can be enjoyed straight from the refrigerator.

Freezing

Freezing is an excellent option for long-term storage of peanut butter brownies. To freeze, allow the brownies to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Place the wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe bag or container. Properly wrapped, peanut butter brownies will maintain their quality for up to 3 months in the freezer.

For individual portions, consider cutting the brownies before freezing. Wrap each square separately in plastic wrap, then place all pieces in a freezer bag. This allows you to thaw only what you need, reducing waste and providing convenience. Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Reheating

Reheating peanut butter brownies can help restore their freshly baked texture. The microwave offers the quickest method, warming individual brownies in 10-15 second intervals until they reach your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the brownies to become tough or dry.

For a more even warming, place brownies on a baking sheet in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes. This method is particularly effective when reheating larger portions or when you want to recreate that freshly baked taste throughout. You can also use a toaster oven for individual servings, which provides the benefits of oven reheating with less energy consumption.

Meal Prep Considerations

Peanut butter brownies can be an excellent addition to meal prep routines, offering a satisfying homemade treat throughout the week. Consider baking a batch on Sunday and portioning them into individual servings for easy grab-and-go options during busy weekdays. Pre-cut portions also help with portion control, preventing overindulgence.

For meal prep purposes, invest in quality storage containers with tight-sealing lids. Glass containers are excellent as they don’t absorb odors and allow you to see the contents clearly. If using plastic containers, ensure they are BPA-free and designed for food storage. For added convenience, include a small note with serving suggestions or reheating instructions on the container.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Peanut Butter Brownies

Peanut Butter Brownies

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🥜🍫 Irresistibly fudgy peanut butter brownies with creamy PB swirls in rich chocolate – ultimate combo treat!
⭐ Easy from-scratch recipe bakes in 30 minutes; perfect for PB lovers craving gooey centers.

• Total Time: 1 hour 38 minutes
• Yield: 16 brownies

Ingredients

– 1/2 cup unsalted butter

– 1 cup sugar

– 2 large eggs

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

– 3/4 cup all-purpose flour

– 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

– 1/4 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter

– 1/3 cup peanut butter chips

– 1/3 cup chocolate chips

– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter

– 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened

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Instructions

1-First Step: Preparation and Mise en Place Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Proper temperature is crucial for achieving the right texture in your peanut butter brownies. Prepare a 9×9 inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides. This overhang will serve as handles, making it easier to lift the brownies out of the pan later. Lightly grease the parchment paper with butter or cooking spray. For the brownie batter, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over low heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals. Let it cool slightly, then whisk in the sugar until well combined. The mixture will look gritty at first but will become smoother as you continue mixing. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract. This base creates the foundation for your fudgy peanut butter brownies.

2-Second Step: Mixing the Brownie Batter In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt until thoroughly combined. This step ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and prevents lumps in your batter. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can develop gluten and result in a cakey texture instead of the desired fudgy consistency. Fold in the chocolate chips and peanut butter chips if you’re using them. These additions create pockets of intense flavor throughout the brownies. The batter should be thick and glossy. Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles, which helps ensure an even texture throughout your peanut butter brownies.

3-Third Step: Creating the Peanut Butter Swirl While the oven continues to preheat, prepare the peanut butter swirl mixture. In a small bowl, combine the additional 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and softened butter. Mix until smooth and well blended. The addition of butter and powdered sugar makes the peanut butter slightly softer and sweeter, creating a perfect contrast to the rich chocolate base. Drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter mixture over the brownie batter in the pan. Use a knife to gently swirl the peanut butter into the batter, creating a marbled effect. Be careful not to over-swirl, as you want distinct ribbons of peanut butter running through the brownies. This technique creates the signature look of peanut butter swirl brownies and ensures that every bite contains both chocolate and peanut butter flavors.

4-Fourth Step: Baking to Perfection Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The exact baking time may vary depending on your oven, so start checking at the 25-minute mark. Your peanut butter brownies are done when the edges are set but the center still looks slightly underbaked. This slight underbaking in the center is the secret to achieving that perfectly fudgy texture that brownie lovers crave. Use a toothpick to test for doneness, inserting it into the center of the pan. It should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. If the toothpick comes out completely clean, the brownies may be overcooked. Remember that the brownies will continue to cook slightly as they cool in the pan, so it’s better to underbake than overbake when making fudgy brownies.

5-Final Step: Cooling and Serving Remove the pan from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling period allows the brownies to set properly, making them easier to cut. While it’s tempting to dig in immediately, waiting at least 2-3 hours will result in cleaner cuts and better texture. For best results, you can even refrigerate the cooled brownies for an hour before cutting, which helps them firm up even more. Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan. Cut them into squares using a sharp knife, wiping the knife clean between cuts for neat edges. These peanut butter brownies are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent treat. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

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Notes

🍫 For extra fudginess, underbake slightly and chill before slicing.
🥄 Warm peanut butter slightly for easier swirling without tearing batter.
❄️ Store in airtight container at room temp up to 3 days or freeze up to 2 months.

• Author: Brandi Oshea
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cool: 1 hour
• Cook Time: 28 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 brownie
• Calories: 210 calories
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 130mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 40mg