Peanut Butter Fudgy Brownies

Name: Peanut Butter Fudgy Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 16 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup butter, melted; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup peanut butter

Highlighted under: Sweet Treats & Homemade Desserts

I absolutely love whipping up these Peanut Butter Fudgy Brownies whenever I’m craving something sweet and indulgent. The combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Plus, they're incredibly easy to make, which makes them a go-to treat for gatherings or those cozy nights at home. Each bite is a moist, fudgy experience that satisfies any sweet tooth and keeps me coming back for more, especially with a scoop of ice cream on top!

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-01-27T11:29:27.589Z

When I first made these Peanut Butter Fudgy Brownies, I was astonished at how simple yet satisfying they are. The secret is melting the chocolate and butter together, which not only makes the brownies incredibly fudgy but also ensures a silky smooth texture. I've found that using high-quality cocoa powder elevates the flavor, making each brownie a decadent treat.

Another tip that changed the game for me is swirling the peanut butter on top just before baking. It creates beautiful marbling and ensures every bite is packed with that sweet, nutty flavor. These brownies have become a staple at every gathering, earning me many compliments!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Decadent chocolate flavor with a nutty twist
Ultra fudgy texture that melts in your mouth
Quick to prepare, perfect for last-minute cravings

Ingredient Insights

The unsweetened cocoa powder in this recipe is crucial for achieving that rich, chocolatey flavor without the added sugars of sweetened cocoa. Use a high-quality brand for the best results, as the quality can significantly impact your brownies. The cocoa powder not only contributes to the deep chocolate hue but also affects the overall texture, helping to create that delightful fudgy consistency the recipe promises.

Butter is another key player in these brownies, adding moisture and richness. Melting the butter before mixing introduces a glossy finish to your batter, ensuring a smooth blend of flavors. For a twist, you could substitute half of the butter with oil to achieve a slightly lighter texture, but keep in mind that it may alter the overall fudginess of your brownies.

Perfecting the Technique

When mixing the brownie batter, ensure that you combine your ingredients gently, especially when incorporating flour. Overmixing can lead to tough brownies, as it develops the gluten in the flour. Mix just until you see no dry flour; some lumps are perfectly okay. This technique preserves that ultra-fudgy texture that makes these brownies so irresistible.

Swirling the peanut butter may require some practice, but it’s a fun step! I recommend using a knife or a skewer to create beautiful marbling. Don’t worry about being perfect—some uneven swirls can enhance the brownies’ rustic charm. Also, adjusting the amount of peanut butter you use can provide varying levels of nuttiness and creaminess, so feel free to experiment!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your rich brownies:

Brownie Ingredients

1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup butter, melted
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup peanut butter

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start mixing!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake your brownies:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Mix the Brownie Batter

In a large bowl, combine melted butter and cocoa powder. Stir in sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until fully mixed. Add flour and salt, folding gently until just combined.

Add Peanut Butter Swirls

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan. Drop spoonfuls of peanut butter on top and use a knife to swirl it into the batter.

Bake the Brownies

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before cutting them into squares and serving.

Enjoy your fudgy brownies topped with scoops of ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce!

Pro Tips

For extra fudgy brownies, be careful not to over-bake. Testing with a toothpick should yield a few moist crumbs for the perfect texture.

Storage and Make-Ahead Ideas

Once you've made these delectable brownies, you'll want to store them properly to maintain their moistness. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature or microwave them for a few seconds before serving.

If you're planning ahead for an event, you can prepare the brownie batter a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just be sure to bring the batter back to room temperature before baking, as this will help achieve an even bake and optimal texture. This way, you can save time on the day of your gathering!

Serving Suggestions

These brownies can be enjoyed on their own, but they truly shine with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream on top. The warm, fudgy brownies paired with cold ice cream create a delightful contrast that’s hard to resist. For an extra treat, drizzle some chocolate or caramel sauce on top before serving for an indulgent dessert experience.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding toppings like chopped nuts, sea salt, or even a sprinkle of flaked sea salt just before baking. These additions can enhance the flavor profile and add interesting textures. Remember, presentation matters, so feel free to dust the brownies with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use substitutes for eggs?

Yes, you can use flax eggs or unsweetened applesauce as a substitute.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days.

→ Can I freeze the brownies?

Absolutely! Freeze them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers for up to three months.

→ What can I add for extra flavor?

Consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for a gourmet touch.