Peanut Butter Fudgy Brownies

Name: Peanut Butter Fudgy Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 9 servings
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 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; 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter

Highlighted under: Cozy Kitchen Recipes

I can’t resist the combination of peanut butter and chocolate, and these Peanut Butter Fudgy Brownies are a dream come true for anyone with a sweet tooth! When I first experimented with this recipe, I was blown away by how the dense fudginess pairs perfectly with the creamy peanut butter swirls on top. Each bite is a delightful taste experience, making this dessert perfect for sharing or keeping all to myself! With just a handful of ingredients, you won’t believe how easy they are to whip up in no time.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-27T13:22:28.340Z

When I made these brownies for the first time, I decided to use a mix of creamy and crunchy peanut butter to add texture. The result was heavenly! Not only did it add a delightful crunch, but it also amplified the peanut butter flavor, making each bite a taste sensation. This is something I've stuck to since that first batch.

The secret to achieving that perfect fudginess lies in not overbaking them! Be sure to take them out when the edges look set but the center still appears a bit undercooked. Trust me, once you try this method, you’ll never go back to cake-like brownies!

Why You'll Love this Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy peanut butter swirls
Fudgy texture that's irresistibly decadent
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion

Understanding Ingredients

This recipe calls for unsalted butter, which is crucial for controlling the salt level in your brownies. Using salted butter can lead to an unbalanced flavor, overshadowing the rich chocolate and peanut butter notes. Make sure to melt the butter gently to achieve a glossy finish without burning it, which can influence the overall taste and texture of the brownies.

Granulated sugar plays a significant role in this fudgy brownie recipe; it not only sweetens but also helps create that chewy texture we all crave in a brownie. For a twist, consider substituting half of the granulated sugar with brown sugar to enhance caramelly flavors, adding depth to the overall taste. Just keep in mind that too much brown sugar can alter the texture slightly.

Perfecting the Fudgy Texture

Achieving the ideal fudgy brownie texture hinges on the correct mixing technique. It’s essential to combine the dry and wet ingredients until just blended; overmixing will incorporate too much air, leading to a cake-like texture instead. You can check if you've mixed enough by looking for a few visible streaks of flour – that’s perfectly fine and helps maintain the dense fudginess we desire.

When it comes time to bake, keep a close eye on the brownies. The key is to remove them from the oven when the edges are set, but the center should still look slightly underbaked as it continues to cook in the residual heat. A toothpick should come out with moist crumbs rather than dry, ensuring that fudgy goodness.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious brownies:

For the Brownies

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
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
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter

Now you're ready to whip up something delicious!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Peanut Butter Fudgy Brownies:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9-inch baking pan.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time followed by the vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly after each addition.

Add Dry Ingredients

Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Stir gently until just combined, but be careful not to overmix.

Swirl in Peanut Butter

Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Dot with spoonfuls of peanut butter, then spread the remaining batter on top. Use a knife to swirl the peanut butter into the brownie mix.

Bake

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center looks slightly underbaked. Remove from the oven and let cool.

Serve

Once cooled, cut into squares and serve. Enjoy your decadent creation!

And there you have it – a batch of fudgy brownies to satisfy your sweet tooth!

Pro Tips

For an extra treat, try adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the batter for added texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These brownies are deliciously rich on their own, but if you want to elevate the experience, try serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The melted ice cream against the fudgy brownie creates a delightful contrast in temperature and texture. Drizzling a little chocolate or caramel sauce can push it over the edge into an indulgent dessert.

For a unique twist, consider topping the brownies with chopped peanuts after baking. This adds a crunchy texture that complements the creamy peanut butter beautifully. Alternatively, you could sprinkle some sea salt on top to enhance the flavors, as the salt draws out the sweetness and adds a savory element.

Storing and Freezing Tips

To maintain freshness, store your cooled brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them, which extends their life to about a week while keeping the texture intact. Just ensure they’re wrapped well to prevent them from drying out.

If you want to make these brownies ahead of time, consider freezing them. Cut the brownies into squares, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze until solid, and then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. Baked brownies can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use natural peanut butter instead?

Yes, but natural peanut butter can be runnier, so it may affect the consistency of the brownies.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or refrigerate to extend freshness.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

→ What type of cocoa powder should I use?

Use unsweetened cocoa powder for the best results; Dutch-processed cocoa can also work for a different flavor profile.