Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownies – Rich, Fudgy, and Irresistible
1. Introduction
Few dessert pairings are as legendary as chocolate and peanut butter. The deep, intense richness of chocolate meets the smooth, nutty creaminess of peanut butter for a combination that’s comforting, indulgent, and impossible to resist.
These Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownies are the kind of treat you whip up for bake sales, potlucks, birthdays, or simply for those evenings when you need a little happiness in a square. They’re fudgy in the center, slightly chewy on the edges, and each bite delivers the perfect swirl of chocolate and peanut butter.
In this recipe, you’ll learn:
- How to create a perfectly balanced brownie batter that’s rich without being overly sweet.
- Tips for getting picture-perfect peanut butter swirls.
- Storage tricks so they stay fresh longer (if they last that long).
2. Ingredients Breakdown
For the Brownie Batter:
- Unsalted butter (1 cup) – Adds richness and a soft texture. Use unsalted so you can control the saltiness.
- Semi-sweet chocolate (8 oz, chopped) – Melts into the butter for deep chocolate flavor. Dark chocolate can be used for a richer taste.
- Granulated sugar (1 ½ cups) – Balances the bitterness of cocoa and adds structure.
- Brown sugar (½ cup) – Adds moisture and a subtle caramel note.
- Eggs (3 large) – Bind the batter and create that fudgy texture.
- Vanilla extract (2 tsp) – Rounds out the flavor profile.
- All-purpose flour (1 cup) – The base structure for the brownies. You can use a gluten-free blend if needed.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (¼ cup) – Enhances the chocolate depth.
- Salt (½ tsp) – Balances sweetness.
For the Peanut Butter Swirl:
- Creamy peanut butter (¾ cup) – Smooth for easy swirling; use natural or commercial brands depending on your preference.
- Powdered sugar (¼ cup) – Sweetens and slightly thickens the swirl mixture.
Substitutions & Options:
- Vegan: Swap butter for vegan margarine and use flax eggs.
- Nut-Free: Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.
- Lower sugar: Use a sugar substitute like erythritol.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prep the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
Step 2 – Melt Chocolate & Butter
In a heatproof bowl over simmering water (double boiler method), melt butter and chopped chocolate together until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 3 – Mix Wet Ingredients
Whisk both sugars into the melted chocolate mixture. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
Step 4 – Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually fold this into the wet mixture until just combined. Do not overmix—overmixing can lead to cake-like brownies.
Step 5 – Prepare Peanut Butter Swirl
In a small bowl, mix peanut butter with powdered sugar until smooth and slightly thickened.
Step 6 – Assemble & Swirl
Pour half the brownie batter into the pan. Drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter mixture over it. Cover with the remaining brownie batter, then add more peanut butter dollops on top. Use a butter knife to gently swirl the peanut butter through the batter.
Step 7 – Bake & Cool
Bake for 28–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Cool completely before cutting into squares.
4. Tips and Variations
Expert Tips:
- Chill brownies before slicing for cleaner cuts.
- Don’t overbake—brownies continue cooking slightly after removal from the oven.
- Use room temperature eggs for better incorporation.
Variations:
- Add chopped peanuts for crunch.
- Drizzle with melted chocolate after baking for extra decadence.
- Use white chocolate chips in the peanut butter swirl for a twist.
5. Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Pair with a cold glass of milk or a cappuccino.
- Create a dessert platter with fresh berries and these brownies for visual appeal.
6. Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Wrap individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Microwave a square for 15–20 seconds for a fresh-from-the-oven feel, or warm in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes.
7. Recipe Notes
- Can be prepped ahead and baked later—just refrigerate the assembled batter for up to 24 hours.
- Best with high-quality chocolate for maximum flavor.
- Use creamy peanut butter for smooth swirls; chunky will add texture.
8. Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 310 |
| Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 9g |
| Carbs | 34g |
| Sugar | 24g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Sodium | 140mg |
| Cholesterol | 55mg |
| Calcium | 25mg |
| Iron | 2mg |
Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
9. Recipe Card Summary
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Servings: 16
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup creamy peanut butter
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Melt butter and chocolate in a double boiler. Remove from heat.
- Whisk in sugars, then eggs, one at a time, and vanilla.
- Fold in flour, cocoa powder, and salt until combined.
- Mix peanut butter and powdered sugar in a separate bowl.
- Spread half the brownie batter, add peanut butter dollops, top with remaining batter, swirl.
- Bake for 28–35 minutes. Cool completely before slicing.
Notes:
- Refrigerate for clean slices.
- Freeze up to 3 months.
Nutrition: See table above.
🏷️ Diet Tags: Vegetarian, Nut-Containing, Chocolate Lovers
🌿 Health Benefits: Source of antioxidants from cocoa, contains protein from peanut butter.
FAQs:
- Can I use natural peanut butter? Yes, but ensure it’s well-stirred to prevent oil separation.
- Can I double the recipe? Yes, bake in two pans or a larger sheet pan, adjusting time.
- Can I make these without cocoa powder? You can, but cocoa deepens the flavor.
10. Final Thoughts
Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or just want a pan of pure chocolate-peanut-butter bliss all to yourself, these brownies are a guaranteed hit. The balance of fudgy chocolate and creamy peanut butter swirl makes them a dessert worth savoring. Try them, share them, and don’t be surprised if you’re asked for the recipe every time.