These rich, fudgy brownies layered with a creamy peanut butter filling are a perfect treat for peanut butter and chocolate lovers. Each bite delivers an indulgent contrast of deep chocolate flavor and sweet, nutty peanut butter. With a gooey center and beautiful swirled top, these brownies are as delightful to look at as they are to eat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of the classic chocolate and peanut butter combo, these brownies will quickly become a favorite. They combine the dense, chewy texture of traditional brownies with a smooth, sweet peanut butter layer and an eye-catching swirl on top. They’re easy to make, ideal for sharing, and the perfect dessert to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Peanut Butter Filling

• 1 ½ cups creamy all natural peanut butter

• ⅔ cup powdered sugar

Brownies

• ½ cup melted butter

• 1 ¼ cup chocolate chips

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 2 eggs

• 3 tbsp cocoa powder

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• ¼ cup flour, all purpose or gluten free flour

• ⅓ cup creamy all natural peanut butter, to swirl

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy lifting.

2. In a medium bowl, stir together the peanut butter and powdered sugar until smooth and thick. Set aside.

3. In a separate heat-safe bowl, mix the melted butter with the chocolate chips. Stir until smooth and melted. If necessary, heat briefly in the microwave to help the chocolate melt fully.

4. In another bowl, whisk the granulated sugar and eggs vigorously for about 2 minutes until the mixture becomes slightly fluffy.

5. Add the melted chocolate mixture to the sugar and eggs. Stir until fully combined.

6. Mix in the cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and flour just until the batter comes together smoothly.

7. Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.

8. Drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter filling on top of the batter, then gently spread it into a rough, even layer.

9. Pour the remaining brownie batter over the peanut butter layer and smooth the top.

10. Drop small dollops of the remaining ⅓ cup peanut butter over the surface. Use a knife or toothpick to swirl the peanut butter into the top layer of batter.

11. Bake for 28 to 30 minutes, or until the center is set and doesn’t jiggle.

12. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before lifting them out and slicing into squares.

Servings and timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Bake Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

• Servings: 16 brownies

Variations

• Nutty Crunch: Add chopped roasted peanuts or pecans to the batter for extra crunch.

• Chocolate Overload: Mix in extra chocolate chips or chunks for an even richer brownie.

• Salted Peanut Butter: Use salted peanut butter and top with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for a salty-sweet contrast.

• Vegan Version: Substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate chips.

• Gluten-Free: Use a certified gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free treat.

• Espresso Boost: Add a teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the batter to intensify the chocolate flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, allow frozen brownies to thaw at room temperature or warm slightly in the microwave for a gooey texture.

FAQs

What type of peanut butter works best for this recipe?

Creamy, all-natural peanut butter is ideal as it blends well with powdered sugar and has a smooth texture for swirling.

Can I use store-bought brownie mix instead?

Yes, you can use a boxed brownie mix for convenience and just add the peanut butter filling and swirl.

How do I know when the brownies are done?

The brownies are ready when the center is set and no longer jiggles. A toothpick inserted should come out with moist crumbs, not raw batter.

Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

Yes, they actually taste even better the next day as the flavors develop. Store them covered at room temperature or in the fridge.

How do I get clean cuts when slicing?

Let the brownies cool completely, then use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between slices.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Use a 9×13-inch pan and adjust the baking time to around 35–40 minutes, checking for doneness.

What’s the best way to swirl the peanut butter?

Drop dollops of peanut butter across the top, then use a butter knife or toothpick to gently swirl it through the surface without overmixing.

Can I use chunky peanut butter?

Yes, though the texture of the swirl will be less smooth, the added crunch can be a nice twist.

How long do these brownies stay fresh?

They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature or a week in the refrigerator.

Are these brownies freezer-friendly?

Yes. Freeze them individually wrapped or in a sealed container. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownies are the perfect indulgent dessert for anyone who loves the timeless duo of chocolate and peanut butter. With layers of creamy filling, a rich fudgy base, and a beautiful swirl, these brownies are as impressive as they are delicious. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just satisfying a craving, this recipe is sure to please.