Easy Peanut Butter Brownie Recipe for Chocolate Lovers

A Chocolate and Peanut Butter Dream

Few flavour pairings are as iconic as chocolate and peanut butter. This peanut butter brownie celebrates this combination with a fudgy, rich brownie base and a creamy, swirled peanut butter topping. Whether baking for a family gathering, satisfying a sweet craving, or preparing a treat for a quiet night, this recipe delivers indulgence with minimal effort. Ready to create a decadent dessert that will impress everyone? Let’s dive into the details!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Brownie Base:

• ½ cup of melted unsalted butter: Contributes richness and moisture to the brownies.
• ½ cup granulated sugar: For sweetness and structure.
• ½ cup packed brown sugar: Adds a subtle caramel flavour, enhancing the fudgy texture.
• 2 large eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients together.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavour.
• ½ cup cocoa powder: For an intense chocolate flavour—use high-quality for the best results.
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour: Adds form to the brownies.
• ¼ tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and boosts the chocolate flavour.
• Optional: ½ cup chocolate chips For extra bursts of chocolate.

For the Peanut Butter Swirl:

• ½ cup creamy peanut butter: Smooth peanut butter works best for a clean swirl.
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar: Sweetens the peanut butter without making it grainy.
• 1–2 tbsp milk or heavy cream: Adjust the consistency for a perfect swirl.

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls (one for the brownie batter and one for the peanut butter mixture).
• Whisk or electric mixer.
• Measuring cups and spoons.
• 8×8-inch baking pan: Ensures the brownies are the perfect thickness.
• Parchment paper: Makes for easy removal and cleanup.

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 on the sides. This overhang is a handle for easy removal once the brownies are baked.

2. Make the Brownie Batter

• Whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a large mixing bowl until smooth and glossy.
• Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and whisk until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
• Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Use a spatula or whisk to fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture gently. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in dense brownies.
• If desired, stir in chocolate chips for extra chocolatey goodness.

3. Prepare the Peanut Butter Swirl

• Mix the peanut butter, powdered sugar, and 1 tablespoon of milk in a small bowl until smooth.
• If the mixture feels too thick, add more milk, 1 teaspoon. The consistency should be spreadable but not runny.

4. Assemble the Brownies

• Transfer the brownie mixture into the prepared baking dish, ensuring it is spread evenly using a spatula.
• Spoon dollops of the peanut butter blend onto the brownie batter.
• Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the peanut butter into the brownie batter, creating a marbled effect. Be careful not to overmix—the goal is to maintain distinct swirls.

5. Bake the Brownies

• Put the pan in the oven and cook it for 25 to 30 minutes.
• To determine if it is cooked thoroughly, place a toothpick in the middle. It should come out with moist crumbs but no wet batter.
• Keep an eye on the edges—if they start to pull away from the pan, the brownies are likely done.

6. Cool and Slice

• Give the brownies a minimum of 20 minutes to cool in the pan.
• Utilize the excess parchment paper to remove the brownies from the pan.
• Chill the brownies in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes before cutting into squares for cleaner slices.

Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Brownies

• Smooth Swirls: Use creamy peanut butter for the best swirl texture and appearance.
• Don’t Overbake: Brownies continue to cook as they cool, so pull them out when the centre is set.
• Add Toppings: Sprinkle chopped peanuts, a pinch of sea salt, or extra chocolate chips on top before baking for added texture and flavour.
• Chill for Precision: If clean cuts are a priority, chilling the brownies before slicing is a foolproof trick.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Brownies

• Classic Pairing: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
• Extra Drizzle: Top with melted chocolate or a drizzle of warm peanut butter for indulgence.
• Perfect Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with a cold glass of milk, a steaming cup of coffee, or a rich hot chocolate.

How to Store Peanut Butter Brownies

• Keep brownies in a sealed container at room temperature for up to three days.
• Refrigeration: Keep them in the fridge for up to 1 week, enhancing the fudgy texture.
• Freezing: Freeze brownies individually wrapped in plastic and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for a gooey treat.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

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

(Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients used.)

A Sweet and Salty Treat Everyone Will Love

This peanut butter brownie recipe is the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves the rich combination of chocolate and peanut butter. Fudgy, decadent, and easy to make, these brownies are perfect for any occasion. Give the recipe a try, and share your results with us. Happy baking!

FAQs

1. Can I Use Natural Peanut Butter?

Naturally, peanut butter works, but stir well before using it to ensure a smooth, consistent swirl.

2. Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious gluten-free alternative.

3. How Do I Get the Perfect Swirl?

Drop spoonfuls of peanut butter evenly across the batter and use a skewer to create gentle, decorative swirls without overmixing.

4. Can I Add Extra Toppings?

Yes! Try chopped nuts, mini marshmallows, or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for extra flavour and texture.

5. How Long Do These Brownies Last?

They stay fresh at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerated for 1 week. You can also store them in the freezer for a maximum of three months.