Peanut Butter Chocolate Fudge Brownies combine the richness of chocolate with the creamy, nutty flavor of peanut butter for a dessert that’s both decadent and satisfying. These fudgy brownies are perfect for potlucks, parties, or anytime you crave the ultimate chocolate-peanut butter treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Fudgy: The perfect texture for brownie lovers.
- Flavor Pairing Perfection: Peanut butter and chocolate are a match made in heaven.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
- Versatile: Customize with mix-ins or toppings to suit your taste.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Brownie Base
- Unsalted butter
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Granulated sugar
- Brown sugar
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- All-purpose flour
- Cocoa powder
- Salt
For the Peanut Butter Swirl
- Creamy peanut butter
- Powdered sugar
- Vanilla extract
Directions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
- Make the Brownie Batter:
- Melt butter and chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring until smooth.
- Whisk in granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until combined.
- Gently fold in flour, cocoa powder, and salt, mixing just until no streaks remain.
- Prepare the Peanut Butter Swirl:
- In a small bowl, stir together peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Assemble the Brownies:
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
- Drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter mixture over the batter. Use a knife or toothpick to create swirls.
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Slice: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares. For cleaner cuts, chill them in the refrigerator first.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12-16 brownies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Bake Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Variations
- Add Crunch: Stir in chopped peanuts or chocolate-covered pretzels for extra texture.
- Double Chocolate: Add chocolate chunks or drizzle melted chocolate over the top.
- Salted Caramel: Swirl in caramel sauce alongside the peanut butter for a sweet-salty twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour substitute.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Freezing: Wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a gooey texture.
FAQs
What makes these brownies fudgy?
The high ratio of butter and chocolate to flour creates a moist, dense texture. Avoid overbaking for the best results.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes, crunchy peanut butter adds extra texture and flavor to the swirl.
How do I achieve perfect swirls?
Use a toothpick or butter knife and swirl gently, being careful not to overmix the layers.
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but ensure it’s well-stirred as natural peanut butter tends to separate.
Are these brownies gluten-free?
They can be made gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
How do I know when the brownies are done?
Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter), the brownies are ready.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Adjust the baking time slightly.
Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Yes, dark chocolate adds a deeper, less sweet flavor to the brownies.
How do I store these brownies to keep them fresh?
Store in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Can I add other flavors?
Absolutely! Mix in cinnamon, espresso powder, or a splash of almond extract for a unique twist.
Conclusion
Peanut Butter Chocolate Fudge Brownies are the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves the classic combination of chocolate and peanut butter. Fudgy, rich, and easy to make, these brownies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them warm with a scoop of ice cream or straight from the pan, they’re guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth. Try them today and experience pure bliss!
PrintPeanut Butter Chocolate Fudge Brownies
Peanut Butter Chocolate Fudge Brownies are the ultimate indulgence! These rich, fudgy brownies are swirled with creamy peanut butter, creating the perfect balance of chocolatey decadence and nutty goodness. A crowd-pleasing dessert for any occasion!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the brownies:
- 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup (35 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup (65 g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
For the peanut butter swirl:
- 1/2 cup (120 g) creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Prepare the brownie batter:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, whisking until fully combined.
- Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Stir gently until just combined (do not overmix).
- Prepare the peanut butter swirl:
- In a small bowl, mix the peanut butter and powdered sugar (if using) until smooth.
- Assemble the brownies:
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter mixture over the brownie batter. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the peanut butter into the batter, creating a marbled effect.
- Bake the brownies:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).
- Remove from the oven and let the brownies cool completely in the pan.
- Slice and serve:
- Once cooled, lift the brownies out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Slice into squares and serve.
Notes
- Storage: Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Wrap individual brownie squares in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Add-ins: For extra texture, sprinkle chocolate chips or chopped peanuts on top before baking.