Name: Rich and Fudgy Peanut Butter Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter; 4 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped (or 2/3 cup chocolate chips); 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter (warmed slightly for swirling)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These brownies are an upgrade from the classic version—rich, chewy, and full of bold flavor. The peanut butter swirls not only add visual appeal but also provide a creamy contrast to the dense chocolate. They’re easy to make, can be prepared in one bowl, and are perfect for sharing (or not sharing at all).

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

unsalted butter
semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped (or chocolate chips)
granulated sugar
brown sugar
eggs
vanilla extract
all-purpose flour
unsweetened cocoa powder
salt
creamy peanut butter (slightly warmed for easier swirling)

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt butter and chocolate together in 20–30 second intervals, stirring until smooth.
Whisk in granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla until glossy and well combined.
Sift in flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Stir gently until just combined—do not overmix.
Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Drop spoonfuls of warmed peanut butter over the batter. Use a knife to swirl it gently into the chocolate.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).
Let cool completely before slicing into squares for clean edges.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 12–16 brownies.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 30–35 minutes
Cool time: 30 minutes
Total time: about 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

Chunky Peanut Butter: Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
Peanut Butter Cup Brownies: Add chopped peanut butter cups to the batter before baking.
Salted Peanut Butter Brownies: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the peanut butter swirl before baking.
Nut-Free Option: Use sunflower seed butter or cookie butter instead of peanut butter.
Double Chocolate: Fold in extra chocolate chips for an even fudgier bite.

Storage/Reheating

Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, freeze brownies (individually wrapped) for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheat in the microwave for 10–15 seconds for a warm, gooey texture.

FAQs

How do I get a fudgy texture?

Do not overbake—remove the brownies when a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs, not clean.

Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, but it should be well-stirred. Oil separation in natural peanut butter can affect the swirl.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, bake in a 9×13-inch pan and adjust baking time to 35–40 minutes.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark?

Yes, but the brownies will be sweeter and less intense in flavor.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

How do I cut brownies neatly?

Use a sharp knife, wipe it clean between cuts, and chill brownies briefly before slicing.

Can I add nuts?

Chopped peanuts, walnuts, or pecans add crunch and pair well with the peanut butter flavor.

Can I use cocoa powder only instead of chocolate?

Cocoa powder alone won’t give the same richness—melted chocolate helps create a fudgy texture.

Do these brownies taste very sweet?

They’re rich and balanced—the chocolate is deep and fudgy, while the peanut butter adds a creamy, slightly salty contrast.

Can I frost these brownies?

Yes, you can top them with chocolate ganache or a peanut butter drizzle for extra indulgence.

Conclusion

Rich and Fudgy Peanut Butter Brownies are the perfect dessert for anyone who loves the timeless chocolate-peanut butter duo. Dense, chewy, and swirled with creamy peanut butter, these brownies are as beautiful as they are delicious. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, they’re sure to become a favorite in your baking rotation.