Save to Pinterest These peanut butter chocolate swirl brownies blend deep chocolate with ribbons of creamy peanut butter for a treat guaranteed to satisfy any craving. Whether you need a bake sale hit or just want something sweet for movie night these brownies never disappoint with their beautiful marbled top and fudgy center.
I first made these brownies for my partner’s birthday and now they are a family tradition every year. The peanut butter swirl makes each piece feel extra special.
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter: for fudgy texture and richness always use a good quality butter for best flavor
- Sugar: creates the perfect crackly top look for granulated sugar that pours freely
- Large eggs: give structure and a chewy texture choose fresh eggs for fluffier brownies
- Vanilla extract: adds smooth warmth pure vanilla is worth the splurge
- Cocoa powder: brings deep chocolate flavor Dutch processed if you like darker color
- All purpose flour: binds everything together measure carefully to avoid cakey brownies
- Salt: enhances chocolate taste go for fine grain to distribute evenly
- Baking powder: provides a little lift
- Creamy peanut butter: makes that beautiful swirl natural style spreads better if slightly warmed
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
- Set your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit and grease a square baking pan thoroughly so nothing sticks after baking
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a mixing bowl combine melted butter and sugar stir until smooth and glossy then beat in eggs one at a time followed by vanilla extract mixing well after each addition to ensure the top forms a pretty crackly finish
- Add Dry Ingredients:
- Sift in the cocoa powder flour salt and baking powder over the wet mixture fold gently until just combined do not over mix or the brownies will be tough
- Layer and Swirl:
- Pour half the chocolate batter into the prepared pan smooth into all corners Dollop spoonfuls of peanut butter evenly over the surface Top with the remaining brownie batter and smooth very gently
- Create the Swirl:
- With a small knife or toothpick drag through the peanut butter and chocolate in figure eight motions swirling the two together Do not over swirl for clear marbling
- Bake:
- Place in the center of the oven and bake for twenty five to thirty minutes the edges should look set and the center still a little soft Cool completely before slicing to set the fudgy texture
Save to Pinterest When I swirl the peanut butter my kids love sneaking a taste off the knife it reminds me of baking with my mom and getting the first gooey corner piece
Storage Tips
Store these brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days For longer storage freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic and foil then thaw at room temperature Brownies stay tender and will not dry out
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use dark chocolate cocoa for a more intense flavor Almond butter also works for a twist on the classic peanut chocolate combo If you want a gluten free version a cup for cup blend will do the trick
Serving Suggestions
Serve warmed slightly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a glass of cold milk Chopped toasted peanuts on top before baking add crunch and an extra peanut flavor
Cultural and Historical Context
Brownies are a true American classic and were first popular in early twentieth century cookbooks Adding peanut butter marries two beloved flavors making this recipe a nostalgic favorite
Seasonal Adaptations
Peanut butter is available year round if you want to make these brownies seasonally add fall spices like cinnamon at Thanksgiving or swirl in raspberry jam in summer months
Save to Pinterest Bake a batch of these brownies and you will see them disappear in no time. Every slice is delightfully gooey with the perfect chocolate and peanut butter balance.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do I achieve the perfect swirl in the brownies?
After adding the peanut butter to the batter, use a knife to gently swirl it into the chocolate. Be careful not to overmix for distinct marbled effects.
- → Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, crunchy peanut butter works well and adds extra texture and nutty bits to your brownies.
- → What’s the best way to store these brownies?
Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- → How do I know when the brownies are done?
Bake until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- → Can I add toppings for extra crunch?
Yes, sprinkle chopped peanuts or chocolate chips on top before baking to enhance texture and flavor.