If you love chocolate brownies and peanut butter, you don’t have to choose between them. These chocolate peanut butter brownies give you both in every bite. They’re rich, fudgy, and swirled with creamy peanut butter. Whether it’s for a cozy night or a treat to share, this easy recipe is sure to be a favorite.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with These Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownies
You’re not just baking a dessert—you’re crafting a moment of pure joy. Here’s why this recipe wins hearts every time:
- Sweet and salty balance: The richness of cocoa complements the slightly salty peanut butter.
- Fudgy texture: These brownies are soft in the center with just the right amount of chew.
- Simple pantry ingredients: No fancy tools or hard-to-find ingredients required.
- Kid-friendly and adult-approved: Perfect for all ages, from lunchbox treats to party favorites.
- Customizable: You can tweak it to fit gluten-free or dairy-free diets.

Ingredients
Unsalted butter – Adds rich flavor and moisture to the brownies. For best results, use unsalted butter. If you substitute with salted butter, reduce the added salt accordingly.
Granulated sugar – Provides sweetness and helps create the classic fudgy texture in chocolate peanut butter brownies.
Large eggs – Bind the ingredients together and add structure to the brownies. Use room temperature eggs for even mixing.
Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor of the brownies by adding warm aromatic notes.
Unsweetened cocoa powder – The key to deep chocolate flavor in these chocolate peanut butter brownies. Use high-quality cocoa powder for the richest taste.
All-purpose flour – Gives structure to the brownies while keeping them soft and chewy. Avoid substituting with cake flour to maintain the right texture.
Baking powder – Helps the brownies rise slightly and achieve the perfect fudgy yet tender crumb. Do not substitute with baking soda.
Creamy peanut butter – The star ingredient for the peanut butter swirl. Use smooth peanut butter with minimal added oils for best texture.
How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
Melt the butter in a saucepan or microwave-safe bowl. Let it cool slightly, then stir in the sugar until smooth.
Add eggs and vanilla. Whisk well until the mixture is pale and glossy.
Mix in the dry ingredients. Sift together cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder, then fold into the wet mix until no streaks remain.
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread evenly.
Make the peanut butter swirl. In a small bowl, stir together peanut butter and powdered sugar. Drop spoonfuls over the batter.
Swirl it in. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the peanut butter into the brownie batter without overmixing.
Bake for 25–30 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick—it should come out with a few moist crumbs.
Cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares. This helps the swirl set perfectly.
Expert Tips to Make Them Just Right
- Use room temperature eggs. They blend better and help the brownies rise evenly.
- Don’t overbake. You want a few moist crumbs on the toothpick—not a clean one.
- Choose quality cocoa. A rich cocoa powder will deepen the chocolate flavor.
- Let them rest. Cutting into hot brownies may ruin the swirl and texture.
- Chill for extra clean cuts. If you want picture-perfect squares, refrigerate before slicing.
Delicious Variations to Try
You can make these brownies uniquely yours with just a few simple swaps:
- Add chocolate chips or chunks for extra gooeyness.
- Swirl in Nutella or almond butter instead of peanut butter.
- Top with crushed peanuts or sea salt before baking for added crunch.
- Use a gluten-free flour blend to make them gluten-free.
- Layer pretzel pieces in the middle for a salty bite.
Each variation adds a new layer of flavor while keeping the original goodness intact.
How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownies
- Warm with vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert combo.
- Drizzle with extra melted peanut butter or chocolate sauce.
- Pack in lunchboxes or share at potlucks—they travel well.
- Serve in bite-sized pieces for dessert platters.
- Pair with almond milk, tea, or a hot coffee for a cozy moment.
No matter how you serve them, these brownies will be the highlight of your table.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownies
What makes chocolate peanut butter brownies so good?
It’s all about contrast. The intense chocolate flavor balances perfectly with the nutty richness of peanut butter, creating a dessert that satisfies multiple cravings at once.
Can I use natural peanut butter in brownies?
Yes, but make sure it’s well-stirred and not too oily. Natural peanut butter can sometimes separate and affect the swirl pattern if not mixed properly.
How do I know when brownies are fully baked?
Look for a slightly firm top with a few moist crumbs clinging to a toothpick inserted in the center. Avoid overbaking to maintain that fudgy texture.
Can I freeze chocolate peanut butter brownies?
Absolutely. Wrap them tightly in plastic or store in an airtight container, and they’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
How do I get a perfect peanut butter swirl?
Drop small spoonfuls of peanut butter mix evenly over the top of the batter. Then, using a skewer or knife, gently swirl it in with a few light motions. Avoid overmixing to keep the swirl definition.

chocolate peanut butter brownies
Equipment
- 8×8-inch baking dish
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Peanut Butter Swirl
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar optional for sweeter swirl
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- Melt the butter in a saucepan or microwave-safe bowl. Let it cool slightly, then stir in the sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs and vanilla extract. Whisk until pale and glossy.
- Sift together cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Fold into wet mixture until no streaks remain.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Mix peanut butter and powdered sugar in a small bowl. Drop spoonfuls over the brownie batter.
- Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the peanut butter into the batter without overmixing.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes. Test with a toothpick; it should have a few moist crumbs.
- Cool completely before slicing into squares.