Dreamy Chocolate & Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe

Chocolate and peanut butter create a magical symphony in these irresistible peanut butter brownies that melt hearts with every bite.

Rich, fudgy layers promise pure indulgence for dessert enthusiasts.

The chocolate base carries deep, intense notes of cocoa and warmth.

Swirls of creamy peanut butter dance through the brownie, creating pockets of nutty goodness.

Each square delivers a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors that tantalize taste buds.

These brownies transform an ordinary afternoon into a delightful moment of pure comfort.

Prepare to savor a dessert that elevates your baking game and leaves everyone craving another slice.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Calories: 266 kcal

Servings: 13

Peanut Butter Brownie Ingredient Essentials

For Wet Ingredients: – Melted Butter: Brings rich, velvety texture and helps bind ingredients smoothly. Choose unsalted butter for better flavor control.

• Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: Creates deep caramel undertones and helps achieve chewy, moist brownies. Dark brown sugar provides more intense flavor.
• Eggs: Provides structure and helps create fudgy consistency. Use room temperature eggs for better incorporation.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall chocolate and peanut butter flavor profile. Opt for pure vanilla extract for best results.

For Dry Ingredients: – All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and thickness to brownie base. Use fresh, sifted flour to prevent lumps.

• Cocoa Powder: Delivers intense chocolate flavor and deep color. Dutch-processed cocoa gives richer taste.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and amplifies other flavors. Use fine sea salt for even distribution.

For Flavor Enhancers: – Peanut Butter: Creates delightful swirl and adds nutty richness. Select creamy peanut butter for smooth texture.

Baking Tools for Fudgy Peanut Butter Brownies

• Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly and efficiently.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending wet ingredients and creating a smooth batter.
• 8×8-inch baking pan: Crucial for shaping and baking the brownies evenly.
• Parchment paper: Helps with easy brownie removal and prevents sticking.
• Knife: Used for creating beautiful peanut butter swirls in the batter.
• Microwave-safe bowl: Helpful for warming peanut butter quickly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Important for accurate ingredient measurements.
• Sifter: Ensures dry ingredients are lump-free and evenly distributed.
• Toothpick: Checks brownie doneness without disturbing the surface.

Making Rich Brownies with a Nutty Kick

• Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to a toasty 350F and get a square pan ready with parchment paper, letting some edges hang over for easy lifting.

• Mix the Chocolatey Base

Blend melted butter with sugars until silky smooth. Crack in eggs one by one, stirring after each. Toss in vanilla for extra flavor. Gently fold in flour, cocoa, and salt without beating the mixture too much.

• Create Peanut Butter

Pour brownie mixture into the pan, spreading it evenly. Zap peanut butter in the microwave for a few seconds to make it drizzle-friendly. Dot peanut butter across the surface and swirl with a knife to create beautiful marbled patterns.

• Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Check doneness by poking with a toothpick – a few moist crumbs are your green light. Avoid overcooking to keep things extra fudgy.

• Slice and Enjoy

Let brownies chill completely in the pan. Lift out using parchment edges, slice into squares, and dive into chocolatey, peanut buttery bliss.

Tips to Make Brownies Extra Thick or Gooey

• Learn how to elevate your peanut butter brownie game with these expert tips.
• Swap some cocoa powder with melted dark chocolate for an ultra-rich, deeper chocolate flavor that chocolate lovers will adore.
• Replace half the butter with Greek yogurt to create a slightly healthier version without sacrificing that incredible fudgy texture. Perfect for fitness enthusiasts looking to enjoy a guilt-free treat.
• Substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend to make these brownies accessible for those with gluten sensitivities. Ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free for best results.
• Sprinkle chopped roasted peanuts or chocolate-covered peanuts on top before baking for extra crunch and a more intense peanut experience. This adds delightful texture and elevates the overall flavor profile.

Serving Brownies for Dessert or Snack Time

• Dessert Companion Options
• Creamy Ice Cream Pairing: Scoop vanilla or chocolate ice cream alongside these warm brownies for a decadent temperature contrast and rich flavor combination.
• Elegant Coffee Complement: Serve with a freshly brewed espresso or cappuccino to enhance the chocolate and peanut butter's deep, complex notes.
• Nutty Garnish Twist: Sprinkle chopped roasted peanuts or drizzle extra melted peanut butter on top for added crunch and intense nutty flavor.
• Fresh Berry Accent: Add a handful of fresh raspberries or strawberries to cut through the brownies' richness and provide a bright, tangy counterpoint.

Save Peanut Butter Brownies

• Cut brownies into uniform squares (2×2 inches) for consistent serving sizes. Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap for quick grab-and-go snacks or lunchbox treats.
• Refrigerate brownies for 30 minutes before slicing to achieve crisp, clean edges without crumbling. Use a sharp knife wiped with hot water between cuts for smoother lines.
• Layer brownies between parchment paper in an airtight container. Freeze up to 3 months for extended enjoyment. Thaw at room temperature for 1-2 hours before serving to maintain soft texture.
• Store brownies in a sealed container with a slice of bread to keep them moist and prevent hardening. Replace bread slice every 1-2 days to maintain optimal moisture levels.

FAQs

• What makes the peanut butter swirl so special in these brownies?

The peanut butter swirl creates a beautiful marbled effect and adds a rich, creamy texture that complements the deep chocolate flavor. By slightly warming the peanut butter, it becomes easier to drizzle and swirl through the batter.

• How can I tell when the brownies are perfectly baked?

Look for a toothpick with a few moist crumbs when inserted into the center. This ensures a fudgy texture. If the toothpick comes out completely clean, the brownies might be overdone and dry.

• Can I use natural or chunky peanut butter for the swirl?

Creamy peanut butter works best for creating a smooth swirl. Natural peanut butter can be used, but it might separate during baking. Avoid chunky peanut butter as it will disrupt the smooth marbling effect.

• What's the key to achieving maximum fudginess in these brownies?

Avoid overmixing the batter and be careful not to overbake. Removing the brownies when there are still a few moist crumbs ensures a rich, fudgy texture that chocolate lovers crave.

Decadent Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe

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• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 13 1x

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Description

Sinfully rich Fudgy Peanut Butter Brownies blend chocolate and nutty flavors in a delectable dessert. Chocolate lovers will savor this indulgent treat that promises pure bliss with each delightful bite.

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Ingredients

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• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup (230g / 8 oz) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup (125g / 4.4 oz) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (85g / 3 oz) unsweetened cocoa powder
• ¾ cup (180g / 6.3 oz) creamy peanut butter
• 1 ½ cups (300g / 10.5 oz) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (100g / 3.5 oz) brown sugar, packed
• 2 tsps vanilla extract
• ½ tsp salt

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Instructions

1. Oven Preparation: Heat oven to 350F (175C) and line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, ensuring extended edges for easy removal.
2. Batter Creation: Blend melted butter with granulated and brown sugars in a large bowl. Whisk eggs individually until the mixture transforms into a smooth, glossy consistency.
3. Dry Ingredient Integration: Sift flour, cocoa powder, and salt into the wet mixture, folding gently to maintain a luxurious, tender batter texture without deflating its potential for ultimate fudginess.
4. Peanut Butter Infusion: Microwave peanut butter until fluid, then strategically drizzle and dot across the brownie surface, creating an artistic marbling effect using a knife to weave the golden swirls through the chocolate base.
5. Baking Process: Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick – it should emerge with a few moist crumbs attached.
6. Cooling and Serving: Allow brownies to cool completely in the pan, then lift using parchment edges and slice into indulgent squares, revealing the perfect fusion of chocolate and peanut butter.

Notes

• Prevent Overmixing: Stir batter gently to maintain a fudgy, tender texture; overmixing develops gluten and results in tough brownies.
• Peanut Butter Consistency: Microwave peanut butter briefly to achieve a drizzling consistency, making marbling easier and more attractive.
• Toothpick Test Precision: Look for moist crumbs on the toothpick, not completely clean, to ensure maximum fudginess and prevent dry brownies.
• Temperature Matters: Allow brownies to cool completely in the pan to set properly and develop rich, complex flavors before cutting.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 13
• Calories: 266
• Sugar: 23g
• Sodium: 60mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 70mg