If you are a fan of rich chocolate and irresistible peanut butter, this Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe is going to become your new favorite treat. It combines the fudgy texture of classic brownies with the creamy, nutty swirl of peanut butter, creating the perfect balance of flavors in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving something sweet and comforting, these brownies deliver pure joy with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the first step to making perfect Peanut Butter Brownies. Each one plays a crucial role, from the velvety butter that keeps things moist, to the cocoa powder that deepens the chocolate flavor, and of course, the peanut butter swirl that makes this recipe truly unique.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Provides richness and a smooth texture that melts in your mouth.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds the classic brownie sweetness with a slight crunch.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Brings moistness and a subtle caramel undertone to the batter.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and give the brownies their structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the chocolate and peanut butter flavors beautifully.
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Delivers deep, rich chocolate flavor without any added sweetness.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: The base that gives the brownies their chewy texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the chocolate notes.
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder: Keeps the brownies just a tad light and soft.
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter, slightly warmed: The star ingredient, creating luscious swirls and a nutty surprise in every bite.
How to Make Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. This step ensures your brownies will come out cleanly and makes for easy serving later.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and glossy. This creates a sweet, buttery base that’s essential for fudgy brownies.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla Extract
Crack in the eggs and pour in the vanilla extract, then mix until everything is fully combined. These ingredients help add body and flavor depth, transforming the batter from simple to spectacular.
Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Sift together the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder to avoid lumps and promote even mixing. Gently fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix—this is key for maintaining a tender, fudgy texture.
Step 5: Pour Batter into Pan
Spread the brownie batter evenly into your prepared pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top so that every corner bakes evenly with a perfect crust.
Step 6: Swirl in the Peanut Butter
Warm the peanut butter slightly so it’s easier to drizzle, then spoon it over the brownie batter. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the peanut butter into a pretty pattern. This step adds visual appeal and ensures every bite has that irresistible peanut butter flavor.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake the brownies for 20 to 25 minutes. Test doneness with a toothpick — it should come out with a few moist crumbs. Overbaking will dry them out, so it’s better to err on the side of fudgy rather than cakey.
Step 8: Cool and Cut
Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. This sets their structure, making the slicing process clean and the squares hold their shape. Once cool, cut into 12 delicious squares and get ready to indulge.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped peanuts or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top can elevate the presentation and add a delightful crunch or sweetness contrast. For an extra touch, drizzle melted chocolate or caramel over the cooled brownies.
Side Dishes
These brownies pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh berries can add a refreshing burst of acidity that balances the richness, turning your dessert into a complete experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering these brownies on a dessert platter with other treats for a stunning dessert spread, or arrange them on a decorative plate with colorful napkins for parties. For entertaining, serve warm brownies topped with peanut butter cups or chocolate chips for an extra indulgence.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature, and they will stay moist and delicious for up to four days. Keeping them sealed prevents the peanut butter swirl from drying out.
Freezing
If you want to save these brownies for later, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep wonderfully for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-baked warmth, microwave a brownie for about 15 to 20 seconds. This quick reheat enhances the gooey texture and revives the peanut butter’s creamy goodness.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter in this Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe?
Yes, natural peanut butter works well but make sure it’s stirred and slightly warmed so it swirls smoothly through the batter. Keep in mind it might alter the sweetness and texture slightly compared to creamy processed peanut butter.
Is it possible to make these brownies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend meant for baking. This swap allows you to enjoy the Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe without compromising on flavor or texture.
How can I make the peanut butter swirl more visible?
Warming the peanut butter just enough to make it pourable helps create more defined swirls. Drizzle in small spoonfuls and use a toothpick or skewer to create distinct patterns without overmixing into the chocolate batter.
Can I double the recipe and bake in a larger pan?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. You may need to adjust baking time slightly—check for doneness starting around 30 minutes to avoid overbaking.
What’s the secret to getting fudgy brownies with this recipe?
The secret lies in not overmixing your batter once the dry ingredients are added, and baking just until there are moist crumbs on your toothpick test. Using both granulated and brown sugars also contributes to a moist and chewy brownie.
Final Thoughts
This Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe is a true keeper that will brighten up any dessert table or snack time. Its perfect blend of chocolate and peanut butter flavors is a surefire way to impress friends and family, or simply treat yourself to some homemade comfort. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Print
Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These rich and fudgy Peanut Butter Brownies combine the classic chocolate brownie with a luscious swirl of creamy peanut butter, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Easy to make and baked in just 35 minutes, these brownies are a crowd-pleasing treat ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter, slightly warmed
Dry Ingredients
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal of brownies after baking.
- Mix sugars and butter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and uniform, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until fully incorporated, creating a creamy and well-mixed base.
- Combine dry ingredients: Sift the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder together to avoid clumps and then gently fold them into the wet mixture. Mix just until combined to keep the batter light and tender.
- Prepare the batter in the pan: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly to ensure uniform baking.
- Swirl peanut butter: Drizzle the warmed peanut butter over the brownie batter in spoonfuls. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the peanut butter into the batter creatively, creating a marbled effect.
- Bake the brownies: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Insert a toothpick in the center to check doneness; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.
- Cool and slice: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan to set properly before slicing into 12 squares for serving.
Notes
- Warming the peanut butter slightly makes it easier to drizzle and swirl.
- Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the brownies tender and fudgy.
- Use an 8×8-inch pan for the best thickness and texture.
- Cool the brownies completely before cutting to prevent crumbling.
- Leftover brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
