Hey y'all! If you adore that irresistible blend of chocolate and peanut butter, you’re in for a treat with these Easy Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies. This scrumptious recipe yields rich, fudgy brownies with gorgeous peanut butter swirls—perfect for parties, bake sales, or a cozy night in. Whether you’re a baking newbie or seasoned dessert lover, you’ll love how simple and fail-proof this is. So grab your apron—let’s get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Easy Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies Recipe
- Big, bold chocolate and creamy peanut butter flavor in every bite.
- Simple pantry ingredients and quick prep make this a stress-free bake.
- No fancy equipment needed—just a bowl, spoon, and a pan!
- Picture-perfect swirls that look impressive on any dessert table.
- Easily customizable with gluten-free or vegan swaps.
Ingredients for Easy Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies
- ¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (100g) brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup (95g) all-purpose flour
- ½ cup (50g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ cup (140g) peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
Step-by-Step Directions for Easy Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies
Step 1: Prep the Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch (20 cm) square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Brownie Batter
In a large bowl, whisk the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until combined. Add the eggs and vanilla and beat until glossy and thick, about 1-2 minutes. Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gently fold until just combined—don't overmix!
Step 3: Assemble and Swirl
Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top. Spoon dollops of peanut butter over the batter (heat it slightly in the microwave to make swirling easier). Use a butter knife to gently swirl the peanut butter into the brownie batter for a marbled effect.
Step 4: Bake the Easy Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies
Bake for 28–32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Don’t overbake—keep these brownies deliciously fudgy!
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Cool the brownies in the pan on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes. Use the parchment handles to lift out, slice into squares, and enjoy your Easy Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies!
Notes for Perfect Easy Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies
- Swirling the peanut butter is easiest if you warm it for 10–15 seconds—check out how to marble brownies for advanced tips.
- Don’t overbake—brownies continue to set as they cool.
- Use high-quality cocoa powder for the richest chocolate flavor.
Easy Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies Variations
- Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free blend.
- Nutty Twist: Add ½ cup chopped roasted peanuts for extra crunch.
- Chocolate Overload: Sprinkle ⅓ cup chocolate chips over the top before baking.
Required Equipment for Easy Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies
- 8-inch square baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls (large and medium)
- Whisk and spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Microwave (for melting butter and warming peanut butter)
How to Store Easy Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 1 week or freeze (well-wrapped) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
Easy Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
- Pair with a tall glass of cold milk or your favorite non-dairy alternative (see plant-based options here).
- For a party, drizzle with extra melted chocolate and sprinkle with crushed peanuts.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Easy Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies
- Use room-temperature eggs to help the batter blend smoothly and rise evenly.
- Don’t swirl the peanut butter too much—a few turns create beautiful marbling; check out this marbling guide for step-by-step visuals.
- Let brownies cool completely before slicing for the cleanest squares.
Easy Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies FAQ
- Can I use natural peanut butter?
- Yes, but natural peanut butter can separate and be runnier, so stir it well and consider adding a tablespoon of powdered sugar for easier swirling.
- Can I make these brownies vegan?
- Absolutely! Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use vegan butter for delicious plant-based brownies.
- Why are my brownies dry?
- Overbaking is the usual culprit. Always check at the minimum baking time, and remember they continue to set as they cool.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Instructions
-
1Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
-
2In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla extract, and whisk until combined.
-
3Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Stir until just combined and no dry streaks remain.
-
4Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
-
5In a separate small bowl, mix creamy peanut butter with powdered sugar. Drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter mixture over the brownie batter. Use a knife to swirl the peanut butter into the batter.
-
6Bake for 28–32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow to cool before slicing and serving.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
Did you make this recipe?
Please consider Pinning it!!