Chocolate and peanut butter are one of the most classic flavor combinations. These peanut butter brownies celebrate that unbeatable combination with a rich, fudgy chocolate base and a creamy, swirled peanut butter topping. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, satisfying a sweet craving, or preparing a cozy treat for a quiet evening, this recipe delivers indulgence with minimal effort.

If you love peanut butter, you’ll also enjoy these 4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies for a quick, satisfying treat.

Stack of three peanut butter brownies with chocolate swirls and sea salt, arranged on parchment paper with chocolate chips scattered nearby.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Brownie Base:

½ cup melted unsalted butter
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup packed brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup cocoa powder
¾ cup all-purpose flour
¼ teaspoon salt
Optional: ½ cup chocolate chips

Peanut Butter Swirl:

½ cup creamy peanut butter
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1–2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream

Equipments You’ll Need

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.

2. Make the Brownie Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and shiny.
Add eggs and vanilla extract, whisking until the mixture is creamy.
Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients.
Do not overmix—this can make your brownies dense.
Optional: Stir in chocolate chips for extra chocolate flavor.

3. Prepare the Peanut Butter Swirl

In a small bowl, mix the peanut butter, powdered sugar, and 1 tablespoon of milk until smooth.
If too thick, add more milk (1 teaspoon at a time) until it reaches a spreadable consistency.

4. Assemble the Peanut Butter Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and smooth it out evenly.
Spoon dollops of the peanut butter mixture over the top.
Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the peanut butter into the batter to create a marbled look.
Be careful not to over-swirl—distinct peanut butter swirls look best.

5. Bake the Brownies

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes.
Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—it should come out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.
If the edges begin to pull away from the pan, your brownies are ready.

6. Cool and Slice

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes.
Use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out.
For cleaner slices, chill the brownies in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes before cutting.

Stack of three peanut butter brownies with chocolate chips and a sprinkle of sea salt on top, set against a warm, blurred background.

Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Brownies

Use Smooth Peanut Butter: For the best swirl texture and appearance.
Avoid Overbaking: Brownies continue cooking as they cool, so take them out when the center is just set.
Add Crunch: Sprinkle chopped peanuts, sea salt, or extra chocolate chips on top before baking.
Chill Before Slicing: Refrigerating the brownies before cutting helps you get sharp, clean edges.

For more peanut butter magic, you’ll love this 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge—perfect for quick, no-bake cravings.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Brownies

Classic: Warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Extra Indulgent: Drizzle with melted chocolate or warm peanut butter before serving.
Drink Pairings: Enjoy with a cold glass of milk, hot coffee, or rich hot chocolate.

For more brownie inspiration, check out these festive Peppermint Bark Brownies or try the chewy, fudgy Cosmic Brownie recipe.

How to Store Peanut Butter Brownies

At Room Temperature: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerate: Store in the fridge for up to 1 week—this enhances their fudgy texture.
Freeze: Wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Let thaw at room temperature or warm gently in the microwave.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

Calories: 250
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 13g
Sugars: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 100mg

FAQs

Can I Use Natural Peanut Butter?

Yes, but make sure to stir it well before using to keep the swirl smooth and creamy.

Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Absolutely! Simply swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free flour blend.

A Sweet and Salty Treat Everyone Will Love

These peanut butter brownies are the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves chocolate and peanut butter together. They’re fudgy, sweet, and easy to make—perfect for family gatherings, celebrations, or just a quiet night in.Looking for another rich dessert? Don’t miss this Chocolate Poke Cake that’s as moist as it is delicious.

Peanut Butter Brownies

Charlotte

These peanut butter brownies are rich, fudgy, and perfectly swirled with creamy peanut butter. They’re simple to make and perfect for chocolate and peanut butter lovers. Ideal for family gatherings, parties, or a sweet treat at home.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Cooling Time 20

Total Time 1 5

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings brownies

Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

For the Brownie Base:

½ cup unsalted butter, melted
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup packed brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup cocoa powder
¾ cup all-purpose flour
¼ tsp salt
½ cup chocolate chips Optional

For the Peanut Butter Swirl:

½ cup creamy peanut butter
2 tbsp powdered sugar
1 tbsp milk or heavy cream

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang.

Make the Brownie Batter:

In a large mixing bowl, whisk melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
Add eggs and vanilla extract; whisk until combined.
Sift in cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
Optional: Stir in chocolate chips.

Prepare the Peanut Butter Swirl

In a small bowl, mix peanut butter, powdered sugar, and 1 tablespoon of milk until smooth.
Add more milk if needed to reach a spreadable consistency.

Assemble the Brownies:

Pour brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
Drop spoonfuls of peanut butter mixture on top.
Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the peanut butter into the brownie batter.

Bake the Brownies:

Bake for 25–30 minutes until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs.
Allow to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes.
Chill in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.

Serve:

Slice into squares and serve. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Notes

For best results, use smooth, creamy peanut butter.
Avoid overbaking for fudgy brownies.
Sprinkle extra chocolate chips or sea salt on top before baking for added flavor.

Nutrition

Calories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 4gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 35mgSodium: 100mgFiber: 2gSugar: 20g

Keyword Peanut Butter Brownies

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