If you’re looking for a chocolatey treat that brings peanut butter lovers running from every corner, you’ll adore these Peanut Butter Brownies. Imagine the decadent richness of classic brownies, but with luscious swirls of creamy peanut butter running through every fudgy bite. This delightful dessert captures that irresistible combination of sweet and salty, making it a must-try for bake sales, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in. You’ll find these Peanut Butter Brownies disappear faster than you expect—and once you’ve tried them, they’re bound to become a permanent fixture in your baking rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity—each ingredient has a purpose and contributes to that perfect texture and flavor. These pantry staples come together effortlessly for truly unforgettable Peanut Butter Brownies.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): This forms the decadent, rich base of your brownies for that classic fudgy crumb.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the batter and helps create that chewy top crust everyone loves in brownies.
- Eggs (2 large): Bind everything together and add body for a tender, moist crumb.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Elevates all the flavors and balances the chocolate and peanut butter notes.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (1/3 cup): Adds deep chocolate flavor and color to the brownies.
- All-purpose flour (1/2 cup): Just enough to help hold the brownies together while keeping them dense and rich.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Rounds out the sweetness and enhances the cocoa and peanut butter flavors.
- Baking powder (1/4 teaspoon): Gives a lift so the brownies aren’t overly dense.
- Creamy peanut butter (1/2 cup): The star ingredient! Creates those gorgeous ribbons and unbeatable nutty flavor.
- Powdered sugar (1/4 cup, optional): Mix with peanut butter for a sweeter, more dessert-like swirl if you like it extra indulgent.
How to Make Peanut Butter Brownies
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), and take a moment to either grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. This little step ensures your Peanut Butter Brownies slip out of the pan without a fuss and keeps every piece as picture-perfect as the last.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together your melted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and glossy. This creates the ideal base for fudgy brownies, so don’t skimp on the whisk! Next, add in your eggs and vanilla extract, whisking again until everything feels fully blended and luxurious.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Now, stir in the unsweetened cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. This is where your batter turns thick and chocolaty—just what you want for classic Peanut Butter Brownies. Mix just until combined so your brownies stay moist and tender.
Step 4: Assemble and Swirl
Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan, spreading it into an even layer. In a separate small bowl, mix the creamy peanut butter with the powdered sugar if you’re in the mood for a sweeter swirl. Drop generous spoonfuls of this peanut butter mixture over the brownie batter, then gently swirl it through with a knife. The swirls don’t need to be perfect—each batch comes out beautifully unique!
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the brownies for 25 to 30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted near the center emerges with just a few moist crumbs (not wet batter). Overbaking is the enemy of fudgy brownies, so keep an eye on them! Let the Peanut Butter Brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares and preparing to delight your friends and family.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Brownies
Garnishes
Peanut Butter Brownies are lovely on their own, but you can take things up a notch with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of melted chocolate, or a scattering of chopped peanuts. A tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top right as they cool adds a magical touch, bringing out the flavors even more.
Side Dishes
These brownies pair beautifully with a scoop of classic vanilla ice cream, a silky dollop of whipped cream, or a big glass of cold milk. If you’re serving them at a gathering, consider adding fresh berries or a fruit salad on the side for color and a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, stack your Peanut Butter Brownies in alternating layers with ice cream to make brownie sundaes. You can also cut them into bite-sized cubes for dessert platters, or serve them warm as a decadent base for build-your-own brownie parfaits. These brownies are right at home at birthday parties, potlucks, or as a sweet finish to a romantic dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any Peanut Butter Brownies left after the initial rush, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The flavors just keep developing, making every bite wonderfully rich even a day or two later.
Freezing
These brownies freeze like a dream! Once fully cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap then pop them in a zip-top bag or airtight container. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to two months—just thaw at room temperature whenever a craving strikes.
Reheating
To recapture that fresh-baked magic, gently warm individual brownies for about 10 seconds in the microwave. This softens the brownie and brings out the aroma of chocolate and peanut butter. For a crispier edge, use a toaster oven for a few minutes on low heat. Either way, you’re in for a treat!
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! For a bit of extra texture and nutty flavor, crunchy peanut butter works beautifully in this recipe. Just keep in mind your swirls might look a little different, but the taste will still be wonderful.
How do I know when the Peanut Butter Brownies are done?
Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick near the center of the brownies. You’re looking for a few moist crumbs—if it comes out completely clean, they may be slightly overbaked. Watch carefully in the last few minutes for perfectly fudgy results.
Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes! If you’re baking for a party, double the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch baking dish. The baking time may increase by 5 to 10 minutes, so check for doneness as you would for the original recipe.
What’s the secret to thick, fudgy Peanut Butter Brownies?
It’s all about not overmixing the batter once you add the flour, and not overbaking. Each step ensures your Peanut Butter Brownies turn out dense, moist, and decadent—just the way they should be.
Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?
Definitely! Stir in up to 1/2 cup chocolate chips for extra chocolatey bites, or add chopped peanuts for crunch. These additions make each brownie even more fun and flavorful.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something about homemade Peanut Butter Brownies that makes every moment a little more special. Whether you’re baking for friends, family, or just treating yourself, this is a recipe you’ll want to keep close. Give it a try—you might just find it becomes your new favorite indulgence!
Print
Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the perfect blend of rich, fudgy chocolate and creamy peanut butter with these irresistible Peanut Butter Brownies. A simple yet decadent dessert that will satisfy any sweet tooth!
Ingredients
Brownie Batter:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Peanut Butter Swirl:
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (optional, for swirl)
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare pan: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Mix brownie batter: Whisk melted butter and sugar, add eggs and vanilla, then stir in cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder until well combined.
- Spread batter: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Create swirl: Mix peanut butter with powdered sugar if desired, then swirl it over the brownie batter using a knife.
- Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
- Cool and slice: Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.
Notes
- For extra richness, fold in 1/2 cup chocolate chips or top with chopped peanuts.
- These brownies freeze well and taste even better the next day.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
