If you’re a dessert lover who dreams about that perfect combination of gooey chocolate and creamy peanut butter, then these Peanut Butter Chocolate Fudge Brownies are about to become your new obsession. Imagine biting into a rich, fudgy chocolate square marbled with ribbons of salty-sweet peanut butter — it’s pure magic in every bite! This easy recipe brings two childhood favorites together in less than an hour, with a texture so decadently tender you’ll want to make these brownies for every occasion or just a little pick-me-up treat. Give in to your cravings and whip up a batch; your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of these Peanut Butter Chocolate Fudge Brownies lies in their simplicity: each ingredient is essential, working together to deliver maximum flavor and that signature, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Gather these pantry staples and let’s get baking!
- Unsalted butter: Brings buttery richness that’s the backbone of a great brownie; let it melt with the chocolate for extra smoothness.
- Semisweet chocolate chips: The deep chocolate flavor that makes these brownies ultra-fudgy and irresistible.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens and creates that glossy, crackly top — don’t skip it!
- Large eggs: Bind everything together and add that all-important chew.
- Vanilla extract: A hint of aromatic warmth that heightens the chocolate and peanut butter notes.
- All-purpose flour: Just enough to give structure, keeping things dense and fudgy, not cakey.
- Salt: A pinch brings all the sweet and rich flavors into balance.
- Creamy peanut butter: For that dreamy swirl; creamy makes the best marbled effect.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and smooths the peanut butter swirl — making it even more luscious.
How to Make Peanut Butter Chocolate Fudge Brownies
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This simple step is your first secret to easy brownie removal (and to keep the corners as fudgy as the center). Let the parchment hang over the edges for a quick “lift out” after baking.
Step 2: Melt Butter and Chocolate Together
In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter and semisweet chocolate chips. Stir gently until everything is perfectly smooth and glossy — this gives your Peanut Butter Chocolate Fudge Brownies their irresistible fudgy foundation. Take it off the heat so it’s ready for the next steps without overcooking the chocolate.
Step 3: Whisk in Sugar, Eggs, and Vanilla
To the warm chocolate mixture, add granulated sugar and whisk until incorporated. Next, crack in the eggs one at a time, whisking after each addition; this creates an ultra-silky batter. A splash of vanilla extract brings those classic home-baked brownie vibes.
Step 4: Stir in Flour and Salt
Fold in the flour and salt until just combined — don’t over-mix! This keeps the brownies dense and fudge-like and prevents them from turning cakey. Now your chocolate base is ready and looking luscious.
Step 5: Swirl in the Peanut Butter Goodness
In a small bowl, mix the creamy peanut butter and powdered sugar until perfectly smooth and shiny. Pour your brownie batter into the lined pan, then drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter mixture on top. Use a knife or toothpick to gently swirl and marble the peanut butter into the brownies, creating that classic “wow” pattern.
Step 6: Bake to Fudgy Perfection
Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick — you want a few moist crumbs clinging, not wet batter. This guarantees your Peanut Butter Chocolate Fudge Brownies stay super fudgy and decadent, just like they should be! Allow to cool fully in the pan before slicing for clean, picture-perfect squares.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Chocolate Fudge Brownies
Garnishes
Dress up your brownies with a drizzle of melted chocolate, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, or chopped roasted peanuts for a bit of crunch. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top never fails to impress and turns dessert into a showstopper.
Side Dishes
Pair your Peanut Butter Chocolate Fudge Brownies with a glass of cold milk, a strong espresso, or a hot cup of tea. For parties, toss together a fresh fruit salad – strawberries and bananas add a refreshing note that plays beautifully with the rich, fudgy brownies.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these brownies at your next gathering on a rustic wooden board with bowls of toppings, letting everyone customize their own treat. Cut into fun shapes with cookie cutters for a playful spin, or stack them high for a stunning dessert tower centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Peanut Butter Chocolate Fudge Brownies stay freshest when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll keep their texture for several days, so you can sneak a square whenever the mood strikes. Place a sheet of parchment between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing
If you’ve managed to resist eating them all, freeze individual brownies by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and popping into a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay delicious for up to 2 months; just thaw at room temperature before diving in.
Reheating
To enjoy that just-baked taste, microwave a square for 10 to 15 seconds until it’s warm, gooey, and fragrant. Add a scoop of ice cream for an instant decadent dessert!
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds a little extra texture and surprise to every bite of your Peanut Butter Chocolate Fudge Brownies, but expect slightly less marbling on top. Both versions are delicious!
Why did my brownies turn out cakey instead of fudgy?
Brownies become cakey if overbaked or if the batter is overmixed after adding the flour. For that dense, fudgy magic, take care not to overbake and stir the flour in just until it disappears.
How do I make extra-thick Peanut Butter Chocolate Fudge Brownies?
Double the recipe and bake in a 9×9-inch pan for taller brownies, or use a slightly smaller baking pan and extend the baking time by a few minutes. Keep an eye on doneness with the toothpick test!
Is it okay to use natural peanut butter?
Yes, natural peanut butter gives these brownies a subtly nutty, less sweet flavor and a richer, softer swirl. Just make sure your peanut butter is well stirred (with no oily separation) for the best results.
Can I mix in extra chocolate chips or nuts?
Of course! Fold in a handful of chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the batter before baking for even more texture and flavor. Just don’t overdo it, or you’ll lose some of that perfect fudge texture!
Final Thoughts
I can’t think of a better way to treat yourself than by baking a big pan of these Peanut Butter Chocolate Fudge Brownies. They’re easy, wildly delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser. If you love peanut butter, chocolate, and a little kitchen magic, this recipe is for you—give it a try, and let the sweet swoons begin!
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Peanut Butter Chocolate Fudge Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the decadent delight of Peanut Butter Chocolate Fudge Brownies, a perfect fusion of rich chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and fudgy goodness. These brownies are a heavenly treat for any chocolate and peanut butter lover!
Ingredients
Brownie Batter:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Peanut Butter Swirl:
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Melt Chocolate: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt butter and chocolate chips until smooth. Remove from heat.
- Mix Batter: Whisk in granulated sugar, then eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla. Stir in flour and salt.
- Prepare Peanut Butter Swirl: Mix peanut butter and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Assemble: Pour brownie batter into pan, add spoonfuls of peanut butter mixture, and swirl gently.
- Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Serve: Cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.
Notes
- Use natural peanut butter for a richer flavor.
- For extra fudgy brownies, slightly underbake and chill before cutting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 17 g
- Sodium: 70 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
