If there’s one dessert that never fails to bring a smile, it’s brownies. But let’s be honest—plain chocolate brownies can sometimes feel predictable. That’s where peanut butter swirl brownies step in. Imagine rich, fudgy chocolate interlaced with creamy, nutty peanut butter. It’s like a hug for your taste buds. Today, I’m sharing my favorite recipe for chocolate peanut butter brownies that’s simple, vegetarian-friendly, and downright addictive.
These brownies are perfect for afternoon cravings, a last-minute dessert, or even a homemade gift. And the best part? They’re easier to make than you might think. So grab your mixing bowl, and let’s get started.
Why You’ll Love These Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies
There are plenty of brownie recipes out there, but these stand out for a few reasons:
- Fudgy Texture – No cakey brownies here. Every bite is dense, rich, and soft.
- Creamy Peanut Butter Swirls – The peanut butter doesn’t just sit on top; it blends into the chocolate, creating a marbled masterpiece.
- Simple Ingredients – You don’t need anything exotic. Most of these ingredients you probably have in your pantry.
- Vegetarian-Friendly – No gelatin or animal-based shortcuts. Just wholesome, homemade goodness.
If you’ve ever tried a peanut butter brownie and wished it could taste even better, this recipe is the one to bookmark.
Ingredients for Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies
For the Brownie Base:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Peanut Butter Swirl:
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (or peanut butter powder mixed with a little water for a lighter swirl)
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
Optional: chocolate chips or chopped peanuts for extra texture
Step-by-Step: How to Make Perfect Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies
1. Preheat and Prepare
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Lightly grease the edges so your brownies don’t stick.
2. Mix the Chocolate Base
In a large bowl, whisk melted butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla. Mix until glossy.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together flour, unsweetened cocoa, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Don’t overmix—overworking can make brownies cakey.
4. Prep the Peanut Butter Swirl
Mix creamy peanut butter with powdered sugar until smooth. If it’s too thick, add a teaspoon of milk or water to loosen it just slightly.
5. Layer and Swirl
Pour half of the chocolate batter into the pan. Dollop half the peanut butter mixture on top. Add the remaining chocolate batter, then the rest of the peanut butter. Use a knife or skewer to create beautiful swirls. The goal is a marbled effect—not full mixing.
6. Bake to Fudgy Perfection
Bake for 28–35 minutes. The top should be set, but the center slightly soft. Test by inserting a toothpick; a few crumbs sticking is perfect. Overbaking will steal that fudgy magic.
7. Cool and Slice
Let brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing. This helps the swirl hold and prevents messy edges. Cut into squares, serve, and watch them disappear.
Tips for Next-Level Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownies
- Use Unsweetened Cocoa – It gives depth to the chocolate flavor without being overly bitter.
- Creamy Peanut Butter is Key – Chunky peanut butter can work, but it won’t create that smooth swirl.
- Don’t Skip Cooling – Fresh out of the oven, brownies are tempting, but patience pays off.
- Optional Add-ins – Sprinkle chocolate chips or peanuts for texture and crunch.
These simple tips elevate your peanut butter brownies from good to unforgettable.
Variations to Try
- Peanut Butter Cookie Brownies – Add a layer of crumbled peanut butter cookies on top before swirling.
- Double Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownies – Mix in chocolate chunks for extra indulgence.
- PB Powder Swirl – Use peanut butter powder for a lighter, less sweet swirl.
- Mini Brownie Bites – Pour batter into a mini muffin tray for perfect snack-sized treats.
No matter which variation you choose, the core principle remains the same: fudgy, chocolatey base + creamy peanut butter swirl = pure joy.
Why Fudgy Brownies Work Best Here
Some people prefer cakier brownies, but for chocolate peanut butter brownies, fudgy is the winner. The rich, dense chocolate pairs beautifully with the soft, creamy swirl. Using melted butter instead of softened butter helps keep them moist. A mix of brown and granulated sugar also adds chewiness, a slight caramel hint, and a gorgeous sheen on top.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
- Room Temperature: Store brownies in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Keeps well for 5–7 days, and slices are easier to handle if you want neat squares.
- Freezing: Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Serve with a glass of cold milk, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce. They’re versatile and endlessly indulgent.
Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat Oven: Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease edges.
- Mix Chocolate Base: In a large bowl, whisk melted butter with granulated and brown sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift together flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt. Fold into wet mixture gently. Avoid overmixing.
- Prepare Peanut Butter Swirl: Mix creamy peanut butter with powdered sugar. Add a teaspoon of milk or water if needed to loosen.
- Layer & Swirl: Pour half the chocolate batter into pan. Drop half the peanut butter mixture over it. Add remaining chocolate batter, then remaining peanut butter. Use a knife or skewer to swirl into a marbled pattern.
- Bake: Bake 28–35 minutes. The top should be set, and the center slightly soft. Test with a toothpick; a few crumbs are perfect.
- Cool & Slice: Let brownies cool completely before slicing. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra fudgy brownies, don’t overbake.
- Can be stored in an airtight container for 3–5 days at room temperature or refrigerated.
- Optional: Add chocolate chips or peanuts for extra crunch.
- Works well as mini brownie bites for parties.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. You may need to slightly adjust baking time.
2. Can I use natural peanut butter?
Absolutely. Just stir well before using, as natural peanut butter separates.
3. Are these brownies vegetarian?
Yes! They contain no gelatin or animal-derived products beyond eggs and butter.
4. Can I make them vegan?
For a vegan version, replace eggs with flax eggs and use dairy-free butter. Cocoa and peanut butter are naturally vegan.
5. How can I get more pronounced swirls?
Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl after layering. Avoid overmixing.
6. Can I add chocolate chips?
Definitely! Mix them into the batter or sprinkle on top before baking for extra chocolatey goodness.
7. Can I make them in a larger pan?
Yes, but baking time will vary. A 9×13-inch pan may take 40–45 minutes.
