Are you in search of a dessert that is rich and simple to prepare? Then this Peanut Butter Chocolate Fudge Brownies recipe is just what you need! These brownies are fudgey chocolaty and smothered with delicious peanut butter. They’re ready in less than an hour, and are made with only ingredients. Ideal for family gatherings, parties, snacks, or for a relaxing evening in, they’re affordable and are a hit with the crowd.
I made these brownies for the birthday of a friend, and they went down within a matter of only a few minutes! The combination of dark chocolate and peanut butter that is nutty is irresistible. Additionally, you can modify these brownies to accommodate vegan or gluten-free diets. Let’s take a look at this delicious peanut butter brownie recipe that will surely satisfy your craving for sweets!
Why You’ll Love These Peanut Butter Brownies
These peanut butter brownies are a dream come true. They’re fudgy, not cakey, with a gooey texture. The peanut butter swirl adds a creamy, nutty flavor. You need just a few ingredients, and prep is quick. They’re perfect for bake sales, potlucks, or gifting. Kids and adults can’t resist them. You can even make them gluten-free or vegan with simple swaps. They stay moist for days if stored right.
Ingredients for Peanut Butter Chocolate Brownies
Here’s what you need for these brownies. Most ingredients are pantry staples.
Grab These Ingredients
These peanut butter chocolate brownies ingredients create a perfect balance of chocolate and nutty goodness.
Main Ingredients for Brownies:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (or coconut oil for vegan)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs (or flax eggs for vegan: 2 tbsp flaxseed meal + 5 tbsp water)
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free 1:1 flour blend)
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (dairy-free if needed)
Peanut Butter Swirl:
- ⅓ cup creamy peanut butter (smooth, not crunchy)
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (or coconut oil)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Add-Ins:
- ¼ cup chopped peanuts (for crunch)
- ¼ cup white chocolate chips (for variety)
Ingredient Success Tips
Use melted butter for a fudgy texture. It blends better than softened butter. Measure flour carefully—spoon it into the cup, don’t scoop. Too much flour makes brownies dry. Use creamy peanut butter for a smooth swirl. Natural peanut butter can be oily, so stir it well if using. Brown sugar adds moisture, so don’t skip it. For gluten-free brownies, choose a 1:1 flour blend with xanthan gum, like King Arthur.
Can I Use Natural Peanut Butter?
Can I use natural peanut butter? Yes, but it may affect texture. Natural peanut butter (just peanuts and salt) can be oily. This might make the swirl less defined. Stir it well to mix the oil. Reduce melted butter in the swirl by 1 teaspoon to balance. For best results, use commercial creamy peanut butter like Jif or Skippy.
How to Make Peanut Butter Chocolate Brownies
Making peanut butter chocolate brownies is simple. Follow these steps for fudgy perfection.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan and line with parchment paper, leaving overhang.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Add eggs and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
- Add dry ingredients: Sift in cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir until just combined. Don’t overmix. Fold in chocolate chips.
- Make peanut butter swirl: In a small bowl, mix peanut butter, powdered sugar, melted butter, and vanilla. Stir until smooth.
- Assemble brownies: Pour brownie batter into the pan. Spread evenly. Drop spoonfuls of peanut butter mixture on top. Use a knife to swirl gently for a marbled effect.
- Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs. Don’t overbake.
- Cool: Let brownies cool in the pan for 20 minutes. Use parchment overhang to lift out. Cool completely before cutting.
- Serve: Cut into 16 squares. Sprinkle with chopped peanuts, if using. Enjoy!
Tips for Fudgy Brownies
Want fudgy peanut butter brownies? Don’t overbake—check at 25 minutes. The center should be slightly gooey when removed from the oven. Use more brown sugar than white for moisture. Melted butter, not softened, ensures a dense texture. Let brownies cool fully before cutting for clean slices. A warm knife helps with neat cuts.
Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Brownies
Can you make gluten-free peanut butter brownies? Yes! Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free 1:1 blend. Check that cocoa powder and chocolate chips are gluten-free. The texture stays fudgy, and the flavor is just as rich. These are perfect for gluten-sensitive friends or family.
Vegan Peanut Butter Brownies
For vegan peanut butter brownies, use coconut oil instead of butter. Replace eggs with flax eggs (2 tbsp flaxseed meal + 5 tbsp water, let sit 5 minutes). Choose dairy-free chocolate chips, like Enjoy Life. Use maple syrup in the swirl if avoiding honey. The result is just as decadent and indulgent.
Storage Tips
Keep your brownies fresh with these tips. Proper storage makes them last.
How to Store Peanut Butter Brownies
How to store peanut butter brownies? Place cooled brownies in an airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 1 week. Layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Can You Freeze Peanut Butter Brownies?
Can you freeze peanut butter brownies? Yes! Cool brownies completely. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. Cut after thawing for neat slices.
Recipe Notes & Tips
- Storage Tips: Store at room temperature for 3 days, refrigerate for 1 week, or freeze for 3 months.
- Substitutions: Use gluten-free flour or coconut oil for dietary needs. Swap peanuts for almonds or skip for nut-free.
- Make It Fun: Add white chocolate chips or a drizzle of melted chocolate.
- Pro Tip: Don’t overmix batter—stir just until combined for fudgy texture.
Nutrition Information
Approximate nutritional breakdown per brownie (based on 16 brownies):
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Protein: 4g
- Carbs: 25g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 18g
Note: Values vary based on flour and peanut butter type. Use an online calculator for precision.
Why These Brownies Are a Must-Try
This Peanut Butter Chocolate Fudge Brownies Recipe is a winner. It’s quick to make, with a fudgy, indulgent texture. The peanut butter swirl adds a creamy twist. They’re versatile—gluten-free, vegan, or nut-free with swaps. Perfect for parties, gifting, or snacking. They freeze well for make-ahead treats. Everyone loves the chocolate-peanut butter combo.
Tips for Perfect Brownies
- Don’t overbake: Check at 25 minutes for fudgy centers.
- Use creamy peanut butter: It makes the best swirl.
- Cool before cutting: This prevents crumbling.
- Line the pan: Parchment overhang makes removal easy.
Pairing Suggestions
These peanut butter chocolate fudge brownies pair well with:
- Milk: Dairy or plant-based for classic pairing.
- Ice Cream: Vanilla or peanut butter ice cream for a sundae.
- Coffee: A hot cup to balance the sweetness.
FAQs:
Is peanut butter good in brownies?
Yes, peanut butter is a delicious addition to brownies. It adds a rich, nutty flavor that complements the deep chocolate taste and can make the texture even fudgier. Peanut butter brownies are a popular variation for those who enjoy the sweet-and-savory combination.
Can I swirl peanut butter into brownies?
Absolutely! Swirling peanut butter into brownie batter is an easy way to add flavor and visual appeal. Just drop spoonfuls of softened peanut butter onto the batter and use a knife to gently swirl it in before baking. This creates beautiful marbled patterns and adds a creamy texture to every bite.
What does peanut butter do in baking?
In baking, peanut butter adds flavor, moisture, and richness. It contributes to a tender texture and can help bind ingredients in recipes without using extra butter or oil. Peanut butter also enhances the overall taste profile by adding a slightly salty, nutty contrast to sweet baked goods.
What are the three types of brownies?
The three main types of brownies are:
- Fudgy Brownies – Dense, moist, and rich with a high fat-to-flour ratio.
- Cakey Brownies – Lighter and more cake-like with a fluffier texture, usually containing more flour and baking powder.
- Chewy Brownies – A balanced texture between fudgy and cakey, often using a combination of brown and white sugar for added chew.
READ MORE RECIPES:-
Final Thoughts
These Peanut Butter Chocolate Fudge Brownies are your ticket to dessert stardom. With a fudgy chocolate base and creamy peanut butter swirls, they’re rich, easy, and oh-so-satisfying. Prep in 15 minutes, bake, and enjoy!
Garnish with peanuts or a chocolate drizzle, and serve with milk or ice cream. Grab your ingredients, line that pan, and bake a batch. What’s your favorite way to enjoy them? Let’s get baking!
Peanut Butter Chocolate Fudge Brownies Recipe
Ingredients
For the Brownie Batter:
- ½ cup 115g unsalted butter
- 8 oz 225g semi-sweet chocolate, chopped (or chocolate chips)
- ¾ cup 150g granulated sugar
- ¼ cup 50g light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup 60g all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup 25g unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup 85g semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional, for extra chocolate)
For the Peanut Butter Swirl:
- ⅓ cup 85g creamy peanut butter (not natural)
- 2 tbsp 25g granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp 15g unsalted butter, melted
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal, or grease well.
- Melt Butter and Chocolate: In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine butter and chopped chocolate. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth. Let cool slightly.
- Make Brownie Batter: Whisk granulated sugar and brown sugar into the melted chocolate mixture. Add eggs and vanilla, whisking until smooth. Gently fold in flour, cocoa powder, and salt until just combined. If using, fold in chocolate chips. Pour batter into the prepared pan, spreading evenly.
- Prepare Peanut Butter Swirl: In a small bowl, stir together peanut butter, sugar, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth. Drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter mixture over the brownie batter. Use a knife or toothpick to swirl it into the batter, creating a marbled effect.
- Bake: Bake for 28-32 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (avoid overbaking for fudgy texture). Let cool in the pan for at least 1 hour.
- Serve: Lift brownies out using the parchment overhang (if used) and cut into 16 squares. Serve at room temperature or slightly warmed, with ice cream or whipped cream if desired.
Notes
- Peanut Butter Choice: Use creamy, commercial peanut butter (e.g., Jif or Skippy) for the best swirl texture. Natural peanut butter may separate and create an oily texture.
- Chocolate Quality: Use high-quality semi-sweet chocolate (e.g., Ghirardelli or Baker’s) for richer flavor. Dark chocolate (60-70% cocoa) can be used for a less sweet brownie.
- Fudgy vs. Cakey: For fudgier brownies, bake closer to 28 minutes; for slightly cakier texture, bake closer to 32 minutes. Check early to avoid overbaking.
- Make Ahead: Prepare batter and peanut butter mixture up to 1 day ahead, refrigerate separately, and assemble before baking. Baked brownies can be stored at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking when freezing.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a sprinkle of sea salt for enhanced flavor. Pair with coffee or milk for a classic treat.
- Variations: Add 1/2 cup chopped peanuts or Reese’s Pieces to the batter for extra crunch. For a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Pan Size: An 8×8-inch pan yields thick brownies. For thinner brownies, use a 9×9-inch pan and reduce baking time by 3-5 minutes.
