If you’re craving a dessert that perfectly balances rich chocolate with creamy peanut butter, let me introduce you to the ultimate crowd-pleaser: the Fudgy Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe. These brownies are decadently moist and bursting with intense chocolate flavor, while the peanut butter swirl adds a divine, nutty contrast that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself to something sweet, this recipe delivers the perfect fudgy texture and irresistible taste that will keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that combine to create an unforgettable treat. Each ingredient plays a key role in delivering the perfect texture and flavor, from the buttery richness to the peanut butter’s creamy swirls.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup melted): Adds a rich, smooth base that’s essential for fudgy brownies.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Adds sweetness and helps with the chewy texture.
- Large eggs (2): Bind the ingredients together and provide structure.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the chocolate and peanut butter flavors.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (1/3 cup): Delivers that deep chocolate taste without overwhelming sweetness.
- All-purpose flour (1/2 cup): Gives the brownies their structure and slight chewiness.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate.
- Baking powder (1/4 teaspoon): Provides a subtle lift without compromising fudginess.
- Creamy peanut butter (1/2 cup): The star ingredient that creates creamy, swirled pockets of flavor.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1/3 cup, optional): Adds an extra melty chocolate burst on top.
How to Make Fudgy Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or give it a light greasing to ensure your fudgy peanut butter brownies come out effortlessly and don’t stick to the pan. This simple prep step makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix Butter and Sugar
In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until they are well combined. The melted butter infuses the batter with moisture, while sugar adds crunch and sweetness, key for that perfect fudgy bite.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, whisk in the eggs and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and glossy. The eggs not only help bind everything but also contribute to the rich texture, while vanilla brings out the complexity of the chocolates and nuts.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Stir in the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the brownies tender. The cocoa powder delivers that intense chocolate punch, while flour and leavening agents gently set the fudgy crumb.
Step 5: Spread Batter and Swirl Peanut Butter
Pour the rich batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Warm the creamy peanut butter slightly in the microwave—just about 15 to 20 seconds until it’s easy to drizzle. Drizzle it generously over the brownie batter, and then use a knife or a skewer to swirl the peanut butter, creating beautiful marbled patterns throughout the batter.
Step 6: Add Chocolate Chips and Bake
If you’re using chocolate chips, sprinkle them evenly on top now. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 28 minutes, or until the center is just set and a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs. For the fudgiest texture, a slight underbake is encouraged. Let the brownies cool fully before slicing.
How to Serve Fudgy Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
These brownies are gorgeous on their own, but you can take them up a notch with a sprinkling of flaky sea salt to accentuate the peanut butter or dust a little powdered sugar for a pretty, snowy effect. Chopped peanuts on top add a delightful crunch that complements the smooth fudginess perfectly.
Side Dishes
Serving fudgy peanut butter brownies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream makes for a classic pairing. Fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce can also provide refreshing or indulgent contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or gifts, cut these brownies into bite-size squares and arrange them on a decorative platter with some peanuts or chocolate drizzle. You can also sandwich two brownie pieces around a layer of peanut butter frosting for an extraordinary brownie sandwich.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to preserve their fudgy texture. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration can help keep them fresh longer but may slightly firm the texture.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Reheating
Reheat brownies gently in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds to restore their soft, gooey texture. You can also warm them in a low oven wrapped in foil for a few minutes if you prefer a freshly baked feel.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a lovely texture contrast and extra nuttiness in your fudgy peanut butter brownies, making every bite even more exciting.
Is it necessary to swirl the peanut butter?
Swirling is what makes these brownies stand out by distributing that peanut butter flavor throughout. If you prefer, you can also dollop the peanut butter on top for focused pockets of flavor instead.
Can I make these gluten-free?
You sure can by swapping the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend. Just be mindful to choose one that works well in baked goods to maintain the fudgy texture.
What’s the best way to measure flour for brownies?
Spoon the flour lightly into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife rather than scooping directly from the bag, which can compact the flour and lead to dense brownies.
Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?
Yes! Just double all ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan for best results. Bake time may need to be adjusted slightly, so keep an eye on your brownies as they bake.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for a dessert that nails that perfect chocolate and peanut butter combo with a melt-in-your-mouth fudgy texture, this Fudgy Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s straightforward, quick, and always impresses with its rich flavor and comforting appeal. Grab your mixing bowl, and let these brownies become your next go-to sweet treat!
Print
Fudgy Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 9 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Fudgy Peanut Butter Brownies are a deliciously rich and moist dessert combining the classic chocolate brownie base with creamy peanut butter swirls. Perfectly balanced with a hint of salt and a melty chocolate touch, these brownies are easy to make and sure to satisfy any sweet tooth craving.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Peanut Butter Swirl & Topping
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/3 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to ensure the brownies release easily after baking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until fully combined. Add the eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract, whisking until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Stir in the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder carefully to avoid overmixing. Stir just until the batter is uniform with no dry spots remaining.
- Prepare the Peanut Butter: Warm the peanut butter in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds so it becomes pourable and easier to swirl.
- Assemble the Batter: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and evenly spread it with a spatula. Drizzle the warmed peanut butter over the top in dollops or lines. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the peanut butter into the batter, creating a marbled effect.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle the optional semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly on top for extra chocolatey richness.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25 to 28 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs but not wet batter.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan before slicing into 9 squares. This resting time helps them firm up for perfect fudgy texture.
Notes
- For extra fudgy brownies, slightly underbake them and chill them in the refrigerator before slicing.
- You can use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy for added texture.
- Sprinkle chopped peanuts on top before baking to add a salty crunch contrast.
