There’s nothing quite like the rich, velvety flavor of a homemade brownie, especially when you add a creamy peanut butter swirl into the mix. Peanut Butter Brownies are the perfect blend of indulgent chocolate and smooth peanut butter, making them the ideal treat for chocolate lovers and peanut butter enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a sweet snack, or just to satisfy that craving for something delicious, these brownies are sure to become a favorite. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make, ensuring that even novice bakers can whip up a batch without hassle.
Why You’ll Love These Peanut Butter Brownies
If you’ve ever experienced the combination of chocolate and peanut butter, you know it’s a match made in dessert heaven. The melt-in-your-mouth texture of the brownies, paired with the creamy, salty-sweet peanut butter, creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. These Peanut Butter Brownies are rich, indulgent, and perfectly balanced. Every bite is a fudgy, moist delight that will make you crave more.
The best part? You don’t need any fancy baking skills to make these brownies. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, anyone can create a batch that looks (and tastes) like it came straight from a bakery.
Ingredients
Before you start baking, let’s gather everything you’ll need to create these delicious Peanut Butter Brownies. Here’s what you’ll need:
Brownie Base:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp baking powder
Peanut Butter Swirl:
- ¾ cup creamy peanut butter (you can also use crunchy for added texture)
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp milk (any kind works)
Substitution Notes:
- If you prefer a gluten-free version of these Peanut Butter Brownies, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
- For a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free butter substitute and almond or oat milk in place of regular milk.
- If you like your peanut butter brownies with a little more crunch, use crunchy peanut butter for the swirl instead of creamy peanut butter.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making these Peanut Butter Brownies is as easy as it gets. Follow these simple steps for perfectly baked brownies every time!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly butter it to prevent the brownies from sticking.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Add in the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Next, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder in a separate bowl. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 3: Prepare the Peanut Butter Swirl
In a small microwave-safe bowl, warm the peanut butter in the microwave for 20-30 seconds until it becomes slightly runny. Stir in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk, and mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Assemble the Brownies
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter mixture onto the brownie batter. Use a butter knife or a skewer to gently swirl the peanut butter into the brownie batter, creating a marbled effect. Don’t overdo it—just a few swirls will do the trick.
Step 5: Bake the Brownies
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs. Keep in mind that the baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the brownies after 25 minutes.
Step 6: Let Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice into squares and serve.
Pro Tip: For the ultimate brownie experience, serve these peanut butter brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. You won’t regret it!
Tips and Tricks
- Check Your Oven: Every oven is different. To ensure your brownies are perfectly baked, start checking them at around 25 minutes. If they’re done, the toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.
- Peanut Butter Swirl: For a more pronounced peanut butter flavor, you can double the amount of peanut butter used in the swirl.
- Fudgy Brownies: If you like your brownies extra fudgy, reduce the baking time by a few minutes. Just be sure the center is set before you remove them from the oven.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the Batter: When making brownie batter, it’s important to mix just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can result in dense, tough brownies.
- Not Letting Them Cool: If you cut the brownies while they’re still hot, they might fall apart. Let them cool completely to get clean, perfect slices.
- Using Too Much Peanut Butter: While it’s tempting to load up on peanut butter, using too much in the swirl can overpower the chocolate flavor. Stick to the recommended measurements for the best balance.
Serving Suggestions
These Peanut Butter Brownies are a treat on their own, but they’re even better when paired with a few extra indulgences:
- With Ice Cream: Serve warm brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dreamy dessert.
- With Coffee: Enjoy these brownies with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or espresso to balance out the sweetness.
- Topped with Whipped Cream: For an extra touch of decadence, top these brownies with whipped cream and a drizzle of melted peanut butter.
FAQ Section
Can I make these Peanut Butter Brownies gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make these brownies gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the other ingredients you use (like baking powder and vanilla extract) are also gluten-free.
Can I freeze these brownies?
Absolutely! These Peanut Butter Brownies freeze beautifully. Once they’ve cooled completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll last for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply leave them at room temperature for a few hours, or microwave them for a few seconds.
How do I make these brownies dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version of these brownies, substitute the butter with a non-dairy butter or coconut oil. Use almond milk or oat milk in place of regular milk. Make sure to use a dairy-free chocolate if you’re using chocolate chips or cocoa powder.
Storage Tips
To keep your Peanut Butter Brownies fresh:
- Room Temperature: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
- Refrigeration: For longer freshness, you can refrigerate them for up to 1 week. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
- Freezing: As mentioned, these brownies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the refrigerator or at room temperature before enjoying.
Did You Make This Recipe?
We would love to hear from you! If you’ve tried these Peanut Butter Brownies, leave a comment below to let us know how they turned out. Don’t forget to rate the recipe and share it with your friends and family. And if you have any variations or tips of your own, feel free to share those as well! We always love to hear your feedback.
