Name: Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter

Do you love the rich decadence of chocolate paired with the salty creaminess of peanut butter? These Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies are for you. They’re not just brownies with a twist—they’re a full-on flavor experience. The deep, fudgy base contrasts perfectly with swirls of creamy peanut butter that melt into every bite. It’s a dessert that delivers on both comfort and wow-factor.

Whether you’re baking for a crowd, preparing a sweet gift, or just want to treat yourself on a lazy Sunday afternoon, these brownies are always a hit. And the best part? They’re incredibly simple to make with just a handful of pantry staples. Let’s talk about how to get them just right.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the batter, it’s key to have your tools ready. Here’s what you’ll need and why each tool matters:

Mixing Bowls – One for dry ingredients and one for wet. This ensures even mixing without overworking the batter.
Microwave-Safe Bowl or Saucepan – For melting butter and chocolate together to create that silky brownie base.
Whisk and Spatula – A whisk helps blend the eggs and sugar to a light consistency, while the spatula is perfect for folding the dry ingredients without deflating the batter.
8×8 or 9×9 Baking Pan – The size of your pan affects the brownie thickness. Line it with parchment for clean removal.
Toothpick or Skewer – Ideal for creating that beautiful peanut butter swirl pattern across the top of your batter.

Having the right tools not only makes the process smoother, but it also ensures your brownies bake evenly and look bakery-worthy.

Ingredients for the Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies

Each ingredient in these brownies serves a delicious purpose. Here’s what brings them together:

Unsalted Butter – It adds richness and moisture to the brownies, forming the luxurious base when melted with chocolate.
Granulated Sugar – Essential for sweetness and structure. It also helps create that shiny, crackly top.
Brown Sugar – Adds depth and a slight molasses flavor, enhancing the fudginess.
Large Eggs – They bind the ingredients and give the brownies structure and chew.
Vanilla Extract – A splash brings warmth and enhances both the chocolate and peanut butter.
All-Purpose Flour – The foundation of the batter, just enough to hold everything together without making it cakey.
Cocoa Powder – Deepens the chocolate flavor and keeps the crumb rich.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips or Chopped Chocolate – Melted into the batter and folded in for pockets of gooey chocolate.
Salt – Just a pinch sharpens all the sweet elements and balances the flavor.
Creamy Peanut Butter – The star swirl. It cuts through the chocolate with a nutty, creamy ribbon in every bite.

How To Make the Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies

Step 1: Melt and Mix the Chocolate Base

Melt the butter and half the chocolate (either in the microwave in 30-second intervals or over low heat in a saucepan). Once smooth, stir in the cocoa powder and let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Whisk the Eggs and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and frothy. This step gives your brownies their glossy top and chewy texture.

Step 3: Combine and Fold

Pour the slightly cooled chocolate mixture into the egg mixture, followed by vanilla extract. Fold gently with a spatula. Sift in the flour and salt, folding just until no flour streaks remain. Stir in the remaining chocolate chips.

Step 4: Pour and Swirl

Transfer the brownie batter into your lined baking pan. Dollop peanut butter over the top in spoonfuls. Using a skewer or toothpick, swirl it gently into the batter to create that signature marbled effect.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let them cool in the pan before slicing.

How to Serve and Store These Fudgy Beauties

Once baked and cooled, these Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies are best served slightly warm or at room temperature to allow their gooey texture to shine. You can cut them into clean squares or rustic chunks—either way, they’re irresistible. For a decadent dessert, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce.

To store, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze in individual squares for up to 2 months. A quick zap in the microwave brings them right back to that fresh-out-of-the-oven softness.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get perfect swirls with the peanut butter?

Slightly warming the peanut butter before dolloping it on the batter makes it easier to swirl. Use a skewer or butter knife in figure-eight motions.

Can I use natural peanut butter?

Natural peanut butter tends to separate and may be too oily or runny for good swirls. For best results, stick with creamy, no-stir peanut butter.

Can these be made gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. The texture might be a touch softer but still delicious.

What type of chocolate is best?

Semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate works best for balancing the sweetness of the brownie and peanut butter.

How do I know when the brownies are done?

Look for slightly set edges and a center that no longer jiggles. A toothpick inserted should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.

Can I add nuts or toppings?

Absolutely! Chopped peanuts, mini chocolate chips, or a sprinkle of sea salt flakes over the swirls can add extra texture and flavor.

Want More Chocolate Dessert Ideas?

If you’re craving more chocolate-rich treats like these Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies, you’re in for a treat. You might also love the decadent Chocolate Peanut Butter Dream Bars, perfect for those who love a layered no-bake option.

For something with a playful twist, the Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes combine spice and creaminess in bite-sized form. And for bar lovers, the Elegant Lemon Marbled Cheesecake Bars bring contrast to your dessert table with zesty brightness.

More chocolate inspiration? Check out the Indulgent Chocolate Chess Pie for a sliceable rich pie option that pairs wonderfully with whipped cream. Or try the Decadent Chocolate S’mores Cupcakes for a nostalgic campfire flavor wrapped in a cupcake.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this recipe to your dessert boards for next time. Just click the Pin button and keep it handy for those chocolate cravings.

If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you add extra peanut butter? Maybe swirl in some raspberry jam? Leave a comment below and share your baking spin.

For more treats like this, follow me on Pinterest @LadyPlate, where I share daily sweet inspirations.