Introduction: My Love for Peanut Butter Brownie Recipe
There’s something magical about the combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter. The first time I made these Peanut Butter Brownie Recipe , I was instantly hooked. The gooey texture, the perfect balance of sweet and salty, and that indulgent peanut butter swirl made them the ultimate treat. Whether you’re a peanut butter lover or a chocolate addict, this peanut butter brownie recipe will satisfy your sweet cravings!
In this step-by-step guide, I’ll walk you through the Peanut Butter Brownie Recipe that are fudgy, easy to make, and guaranteed to impress. Let’s get baking!
Ingredients You’ll Need for Peanut Butter Brownie Recipe
For the Brownie Batter to make Peanut Butter Brownie Recipe :
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
For the Peanut Butter Swirl:
- ¾ cup creamy peanut butter
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Optional Toppings & Mix-ins:
✔ Chocolate chips for extra richness
✔ Chopped peanuts for a crunchy texture
✔ Drizzle of melted chocolate for extra indulgence
Step-by-Step Instructions to make Peanut Butter Brownie Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps create a fudgy texture.
- Stir in the vanilla extract for extra flavor.
- In another bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Do not overmix—this keeps the brownies fudgy.
Step 3: Prepare the Peanut Butter Swirl for Peanut Butter Brownie Recipe
- In a small bowl, mix together creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and melted butter.
- Stir until smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, warm it slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to make it easier to swirl.
Step 4: Assemble the Brownies to make Peanut Butter Brownie Recipe
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter mixture over the batter.
- Use a knife or skewer to swirl the peanut butter into the brownie batter, creating a marbled effect.
Step 5: Bake the Brownies
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes.
- Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
- If needed, bake for an additional 2-3 minutes, but avoid overbaking.
Step 6: Cool and Slice
- Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for at least 20-30 minutes.
- Once cooled, use a sharp knife to cut into squares or rectangles.
- For cleaner slices, wipe the knife with a damp cloth between cuts.
Tips for the Perfect Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe
✅ Use high-quality ingredients – Better cocoa powder and peanut butter mean richer flavor.
✅ Don’t overmix the batter – Keeps the brownies dense and fudgy.
✅ Warm peanut butter slightly – Makes swirling easier.
✅ Adjust the peanut butter swirl – Like more peanut butter? Double the peanut butter mixture.
✅ Customize the texture – Add chocolate chips, crushed peanuts, or caramel drizzle for extra indulgence.
How to Store Your Brownies
✔ Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
✔ Refrigerator: Keep in the fridge for up to 1 week.
✔ Freezer: Wrap individual brownies and freeze for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature or microwave for 15-20 seconds.
FAQs About Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe
1. Can I Use Natural Peanut Butter in Peanut Butter Brownie Recipe ?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but it tends to be more runny and separates compared to regular peanut butter.
How to Use Natural Peanut Butter Without Issues:
- Stir it very well before measuring to combine the oil and peanut solids.
- If it’s too thin, refrigerate it for 15–20 minutes to slightly thicken it.
- Consider adding an extra tablespoon of powdered sugar to balance the consistency.
For the best peanut butter swirl, use regular creamy peanut butter, like Jif or Skippy, as it holds its shape better when baked.
2. How Do I Make My Peanut Butter Brownie Recipe Extra Fudgy ?
To get the ultimate fudgy brownies, follow these tips:
✔ More Butter & Less Flour – Brownies with higher fat content (butter and eggs) and less flour are richer and fudgier.
✔ Do Not Overmix – Overmixing incorporates too much air, making them cakey instead of dense.
✔ Underbake Slightly – Remove the brownies 2-3 minutes before they seem fully set. The center should look slightly underdone but will continue cooking as they cool.
✔ Use High-Quality Cocoa Powder – Dark, Dutch-processed cocoa powder makes the brownies richer and more chocolatey.
✔ Add a Touch of Coffee – A teaspoon of instant espresso powder deepens the chocolate flavor without making it taste like coffee.
3. Can I Make These Peanut Butter Brownie Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply swap the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend (such as Bob’s Red Mill or King Arthur).
Tips for Gluten-Free Brownies:
- Use almond flour for extra moisture – Almond flour works well but makes the brownies softer.
- Let them cool completely – Gluten-free brownies may be more fragile when warm, so allow them to fully set before slicing.
These substitutions will still give you rich, fudgy brownies with that classic peanut butter swirl!
4. How Do I Make This Peanut Butter Brownie Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make these brownies completely dairy-free, replace:
- Butter → Use vegan butter or coconut oil.
- Chocolate Chips (if using) → Opt for dairy-free chocolate chips (like Enjoy Life brand).
Since coconut oil has a strong flavor, I recommend refined coconut oil, which has a neutral taste.
5. Can I Use Chunky Peanut Butter Instead of Creamy?
Yes! If you love a little crunch, feel free to use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy.
How It Affects the Recipe:
✔ More texture: Adds crunch from peanut pieces.
✔ Less smooth swirl: The peanut chunks won’t swirl as cleanly but still taste amazing.
For an even crunchier brownie, sprinkle chopped peanuts on top before baking!
6. Can I Add Extra Mix-Ins to the Brownie Batter?
Absolutely! Customizing your brownies makes them even more delicious.
Best Mix-Ins for Peanut Butter Brownies:
✔ Chocolate chips – For melty chocolate pockets.
✔ Chopped Reese’s cups – Doubles the peanut butter-chocolate combo!
✔ Caramel drizzle – Adds extra gooeyness and sweetness.
✔ Sea salt flakes – Enhances the peanut butter and chocolate flavors.
If adding mix-ins, fold them in gently before pouring the batter into the baking dish.
7. How Do I Get the Perfect Peanut Butter Swirl?
The peanut butter swirl is what makes these brownies visually stunning and delicious.
How to Achieve the Best Swirl Effect:
- Drop spoonfuls of peanut butter mixture evenly over the brownie batter.
- Use a butter knife or skewer to drag through the peanut butter in a swirling motion.
- Don’t over-swirl – If you mix too much, you’ll lose the defined swirls.
For a more pronounced peanut butter flavor, increase the peanut butter mixture by 50%.
8. How Long Should I Bake Peanut Butter Brownies?
Brownie baking time varies depending on your oven and preferred texture.
| Brownie Type | Baking Time (350°F / 175°C) |
|---|---|
| Ultra fudgy | 28-30 minutes (center will be slightly gooey) |
| Classic fudgy | 30-32 minutes (moist crumbs on toothpick) |
| More cakey | 35 minutes (center fully set) |
Important Tip: Always test with a toothpick—it should have moist crumbs, not wet batter.
9. How Should I Store These Brownies?
To keep your brownies fresh, store them properly:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Keep in the fridge for up to 1 week (best for extra fudgy brownies).
- Freezer: Wrap brownies individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
How to Reheat Frozen Brownies:
- Microwave for 15-20 seconds for a fresh-from-the-oven texture.
- If reheating multiple brownies, place them on a baking tray at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes.
10. Can I Make These Brownies in Advance for a Party?
Yes! Peanut butter brownies are great for make-ahead desserts.
Best Way to Make in Advance:
- Bake the brownies 1-2 days before your event and store them in an airtight container.
- If making several days ahead, refrigerate or freeze them.
- Let refrigerated brownies come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
For extra freshness, drizzle melted chocolate or peanut butter on top right before serving!
11. How Can I Make Peanut Butter Brownie Recipe Without an Oven ?
If you don’t have an oven, you can make these brownies in an air fryer or stovetop pan.
Air Fryer Instructions:
- Preheat air fryer to 320°F (160°C).
- Pour batter into an air fryer-safe baking dish.
- Air fry for 20-25 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
Stovetop (Pan Method):
- Pour brownie batter into a buttered cast-iron skillet.
- Cover with a lid and cook on low heat for 25-30 minutes.
- Check doneness with a toothpick.
Conclusion about Peanut Butter Brownie Recipe
This peanut butter brownie recipe is rich, fudgy, and packed with flavor. Whether you make them for a special occasion or just because, they’re guaranteed to be a hit!
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