Peanut Butter Brownie Recipe – Easy Comfort Food Recipes

Servings: 12 Total Time: 50 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

When it comes to dessert, a few combinations have the magic to elevate your taste buds to new heights. Peanut butter and chocolate sit comfortably at the top of that list, and what better way to enjoy this duo than with a batch of gooey, mouthwatering peanut butter brownies?

You can pair these brownies with a tall glass of cold milk, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a rich dollop of whipped cream. Trust me, the experience will be unforgettable.

Peanut Butter Brownie Recipe

What is Peanut Butter Brownie?

Peanut butter brownies are a delicious twist on traditional brownies. They incorporate creamy peanut butter into the brownie batter, resulting in a treat that’s dense, fudgy, and bursting with flavor. 

The combination of chocolate and peanut butter creates a rich texture that’s hard to resist. You’ll find that each brownie is a delightful balance of sweetness and a touch of saltiness from the peanut butter. It’s truly a dessert that speaks to the soul.

Why This Recipe Works?

  • Simplicity: This recipe is straightforward and requires only a few ingredients, making it accessible for everyone. You don’t need to be a baking wizard to whip these up.
  • Flavor Fusion: The blend of chocolate and peanut butter is a classic combination. The flavors complement each other beautifully, resulting in a dessert that satisfies even the pickiest eater.
  • Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe to fit your dietary preferences or ingredients you have on hand. Want to make it gluten-free? Simply swap out regular flour for a gluten-free blend.
  • Quick to Prepare: With a total time of under an hour, you can have these brownies ready in no time. Perfect for those last-minute dessert cravings or surprise guests!

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Dish

To create these delightful peanut butter brownies, gather the following ingredients:

  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon of pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup of softened unsalted butter
  • 1 cup of granulated white sugar
  • 1 cup of packed light brown sugar
  • 1ÂĽ cups of all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup of unsweetened dark cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon of sea salt
  • 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chunks (divided)
  • ½ cup of smooth peanut butter
  • 2 tablespoons of milk or dark chocolate drizzle
Peanut Butter Brownie Copycat Recipe

How to Make This Peanut Butter Brownie?

This process is quick and straightforward. Let’s dive into the steps.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a large bowl, melt the softened unsalted butter in the microwave or on the stovetop until it’s fully liquid. I often allow the butter a moment to cool slightly before proceeding to avoid cooking the eggs.

Step 3: Combine the Sugars

Add the granulated white sugar and packed light brown sugar to the melted butter. Stir until fully combined. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, add the eggs and vanilla extract to the sugar-butter mixture. Whisk until it’s light and airy. This step is crucial because it adds volume to our brownies.

Step 5: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and sea salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently. You don’t want to overmix; just stir until everything is combined.

Step 6: Fold in the Chocolate Chunks

Take about Âľ of the chocolate chunks and fold them in gently. These ooey-gooey bites will yield pockets of chocolate in every bite.

Step 7: Swirl in the Peanut Butter

Now comes the fun part: taking your smooth peanut butter and dolloping it on top of the brownie batter. Using a knife or a skewer, gently swirl the peanut butter into the batter to create a marbled effect.

Step 8: Bake the Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chunks on top. Then, pop it in the oven for about 25 to 30 minutes. You want a toothpick to come out with a few moist crumbs when you check for doneness.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the brownies cool in the pan on a wire rack. Once cool, you can drizzle chocolate on top for a finishing touch. Cut them into squares and enjoy!

Tips & Tricks

  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature eggs helps the batter come together smoothly; it makes a difference in texture!
  • Don’t Overbake: It’s easy to rush this process, but keep an eye on the brownies. Overbaking can lead to dry brownies.
  • Use Quality Ingredients: The better the chocolate and peanut butter, the better the brownies will taste. Treat yourself!
  • Cool Before Cutting: Let the brownies cool completely before cutting them. They will hold their shape better.
  • Experiment with Mix-Ins: Chopped nuts or even toffee bits can add an exciting crunch to these brownies.

How Do You Store the Leftovers?

Storing these brownies is simple. Once they have cooled, place them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them, where they can last up to a week. 

If you need to keep them for a month, freeze them. Just wrap each brownie in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight freezer bag.

What Sides Would Complement Peanut Butter Brownies?

  • Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on top or alongside your brownie takes the dessert experience to the next level.
  • Fresh Berries: The tartness of fresh raspberries or strawberries can provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.
  • Whipped Cream: A simple dollop of whipped cream adds lightness and creaminess, enhancing the overall experience.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients if They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?

  • Butter Substitute: If you’re out of butter, coconut oil works well as a substitute. It adds a slight coconut flavor which pairs nicely with chocolate.
  • Sugar Alternatives: You can use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like honey or maple syrup. Just remember to adjust the quantity.
  • Flour Swap: Almond flour can replace all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option. You might need to experiment with the quantity slightly.
  • Chocolate Chunks: If you don’t have chocolate chunks, semi-sweet chocolate chips are a perfect alternative.
Best Peanut Butter Brownie Recipe

Conclusion

Peanut butter brownies are more than just a dessert. They’re an experience that combines the rich, comforting flavors of chocolate and peanut butter in each bite. 

Whether enjoyed alone or paired with a scoop of ice cream, these brownies are sure to evoke happy memories and inspire more sweet moments. 

So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and allow your kitchen to fill with the incredible aroma of freshly baked brownies. You won’t regret it!

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Peanut Butter Brownie Recipe – Easy Comfort Food Recipes

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 40 mins Total Time 50 mins
Servings: 12 Calories: 494 kcal
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Brownies have a special place in my heart. They’re more than just dessert; they evoke fond memories of family gatherings and shared laughter. When I first combined peanut butter with rich, fudgy brownies, it felt like I discovered a hidden treasure. 

The way the flavors meld together is nothing short of a celebration for the senses. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, making peanut butter brownies is straightforward and rewarding.

Let’s explore what makes peanut butter brownies so irresistible.

Ingredients

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

  1. In a large bowl, melt the softened unsalted butter in the microwave or on the stovetop until it’s fully liquid. I often allow the butter a moment to cool slightly before proceeding to avoid cooking the eggs.

Step 3: Combine the Sugars

  1. Add the granulated white sugar and packed light brown sugar to the melted butter. Stir until fully combined. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

  1. Next, add the eggs and vanilla extract to the sugar-butter mixture. Whisk until it’s light and airy. This step is crucial because it adds volume to our brownies.

Step 5: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

  1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and sea salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently. You don’t want to overmix; just stir until everything is combined.

Step 6: Fold in the Chocolate Chunks

  1. Take about Âľ of the chocolate chunks and fold them in gently. These ooey-gooey bites will yield pockets of chocolate in every bite.

Step 7: Swirl in the Peanut Butter

  1. Now comes the fun part: taking your smooth peanut butter and dolloping it on top of the brownie batter. Using a knife or a skewer, gently swirl the peanut butter into the batter to create a marbled effect.

Step 8: Bake the Brownies

  1. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chunks on top. Then, pop it in the oven for about 25 to 30 minutes. You want a toothpick to come out with a few moist crumbs when you check for doneness.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

  1. Once out of the oven, let the brownies cool in the pan on a wire rack. Once cool, you can drizzle chocolate on top for a finishing touch. Cut them into squares and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings 12


Amount Per Serving
Calories 491kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 25.1g39%
Saturated Fat 12.4g62%
Cholesterol 70mg24%
Sodium 281mg12%
Total Carbohydrate 60g20%
Dietary Fiber 3g12%
Sugars 41g
Protein 8g16%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature eggs helps the batter come together smoothly; it makes a difference in texture!
  • Don’t Overbake: It’s easy to rush this process, but keep an eye on the brownies. Overbaking can lead to dry brownies.
  • Use Quality Ingredients: The better the chocolate and peanut butter, the better the brownies will taste. Treat yourself!
  • Cool Before Cutting: Let the brownies cool completely before cutting them. They will hold their shape better.
  • Experiment with Mix-Ins: Chopped nuts or even toffee bits can add an exciting crunch to these brownies.
Keywords: peanut butter brownie recipe
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Frequently Asked Questions

Expand All:

1. Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

Absolutely! Peanut butter brownies store well. You can make them a day or two in advance; just cover them tightly to keep them fresh.

2. Can I freeze peanut butter brownies?

Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight bag. They can last up to a month in the freezer.

3. How do I know when my brownies are done?

Check them at the 25-minute mark. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs stuck to it but not wet batter.

4. Can I add nuts to the recipe?

Yes! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch. Just fold them in after adding the chocolate chunks.

5. Can I make these brownies vegan?

You can substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg). Also, use dairy-free butter and chocolate.

6. What type of cocoa powder should I use?

Dark unsweetened cocoa powder is recommended for a deeper chocolate flavor, but regular unsweetened cocoa powder will work just fine.

Kathleen Looney, Author and Registered Dietitian
Kathleen Looney Registered Dietitian, Food Blogger & Food Enthusiasts

Kathleen Looney is a Texas-based registered dietitian and the creator of Easy Comfort Food Recipes, where she shares simple, hearty dishes that bring warmth and joy to the table. Combining her love for Southern classics and Tex-Mex flavors, Kathleen creates approachable recipes that balance indulgence and nutrition. Her passion lies in helping home cooks prepare comforting, soul-satisfying meals that nourish both body and spirit.

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