Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies

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The first time I swirled peanut butter into a rich batch of chocolate brownies, I knew I had struck gold. There’s something irresistible about that fudgy texture mingled with creamy, salty peanut butter ribbons. It transforms a simple dessert into something that feels indulgent and beautifully balanced. Ever since that first batch, this has become my go-to brownie recipe whenever I need to impress with minimal effort.

These peanut butter swirl brownies are more than just a treat—they’re a little piece of joy. The bold contrast of chocolate and peanut butter gives them a nostalgic, comforting flavor, but the elegant swirl pattern on top makes them look bakery-worthy. Whether you’re baking for a casual weekend sweet or a special occasion, these brownies always deliver.

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Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies Recipe

This recipe is the perfect blend of ease and wow-factor. The base is a dense, chocolatey brownie that comes together in one bowl, while the peanut butter topping is as simple as swirling in spoonfuls of creamy goodness. It satisfies that craving for something sweet, salty, and rich all at once. Bonus: the marbled pattern on top makes it look like you spent way more time than you actually did.

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Can I Use Natural Peanut Butter or the Regular Kind?

You can use either, but regular creamy peanut butter (like Jif or Skippy) gives the best swirl and consistency. Natural peanut butter tends to be oilier and can separate during baking, which may affect both the look and texture. If you’re set on using natural, stir it thoroughly before using and be prepared for a more rustic finish.

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Options for Substitutions

Want to get a little creative? Here are a few ways to mix things up:

• Nut-Free? Use sunflower seed butter or cookie butter instead of peanut butter.
• Gluten-Free? Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix.
• Make it Vegan: Use flax eggs and vegan butter, and make sure your chocolate is dairy-free.
• Add Some Crunch: Fold in chopped peanuts or chocolate chips for extra texture.
• Swap the Base: Use a blondie base if you’re not into chocolate (though, why wouldn’t you be?).

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Ingredients for This Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies Recipe

• Unsalted Butter – Melting it creates a rich, chewy brownie base and enhances the chocolate flavor.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the brownies and gives them structure and that signature crackly top.
• Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a subtle molasses depth that pairs beautifully with peanut butter.
• Large Eggs – Provide stability, structure, and richness.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances all the other flavors and brings a warm note to the batter.
• All-Purpose Flour – The foundation that holds everything together without making the brownies cakey.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Delivers deep chocolate flavor; natural or Dutch-process both work.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and intensifies the chocolate.
• Chocolate Chips – Melt into gooey pools or stay slightly chunky depending on how you fold them in.
• Creamy Peanut Butter – The star swirl ingredient; brings saltiness, creaminess, and that nutty kick.

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Step 1: Prep the Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper. This ensures easy removal and prevents sticking.

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Step 2: Melt Butter and Mix with Sugars

In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Stir in the granulated sugar and brown sugar until smooth and glossy. This step gives your brownies a crackly top and rich flavor.

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Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Whisk in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Make sure everything is well incorporated before moving to the dry ingredients.

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Step 4: Mix in Dry Ingredients

Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Gently fold the mixture with a spatula until just combined. Don’t overmix – this keeps your brownies fudgy.

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Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in chocolate chips for extra pockets of melty chocolate in every bite.

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Step 6: Pour into Pan and Swirl in Peanut Butter

Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan. Drop spoonfuls of peanut butter on top and use a butter knife to swirl it into the batter. Create decorative patterns without overmixing.

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Step 7: Bake

Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. The edges will be set and the center slightly soft.

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Step 8: Cool and Slice

Let the brownies cool completely in the pan. This helps them set and makes slicing clean and easy. Use a sharp knife to cut into squares and wipe it clean between slices for perfect edges.

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How Long to Prepare the Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies

Prep Time: The prep takes about 15 minutes, which includes melting the butter, mixing the batter, and swirling in the peanut butter. It’s a smooth process, especially if you pre-measure your ingredients.

Bake Time: These brownies bake in 30 to 35 minutes. The key is to pull them out when the center is just set but still slightly soft. That’s how you get that fudgy middle everyone loves.

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Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies

• Warm the peanut butter slightly before swirling to make it easier to spread.
• Use a butter knife or skewer to gently swirl without overmixing.
• Let the brownies cool completely before slicing – they firm up as they rest.
• Line the pan with parchment paper and leave overhangs to lift the brownies out easily.
• Use high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate chips for richer flavor.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overbaking: This dries out the brownies and makes them cakey.
• Not Swirling Properly: Swirling too deep can mix the layers instead of marbling them.
• Using Natural Peanut Butter Without Mixing: It can separate and affect the swirl texture.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Warm brownies are gooey and hard to cut cleanly.
• Incorrect Measuring: Especially with flour – always spoon and level.

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What to Serve With Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies?

1. A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream

The contrast of cold, creamy vanilla with warm, fudgy brownie is unbeatable.

2. Fresh Berries

Strawberries or raspberries add a tart freshness that balances the richness.

3. A Glass of Cold Milk

Classic and comforting, especially for kids (or the kid in you).

4. Whipped Cream

A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds fluff and elegance.

5. Coffee or Espresso

The bitterness of coffee pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the brownie.

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Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: Store cooled brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keep them out of direct sunlight or heat.

Refrigerator: You can store them in the fridge for up to a week. Just let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezer: Wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and then foil, or store in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temp or warm in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~290
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Sugar: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Sodium: 115mg
• Cholesterol: 40mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get the perfect swirl?

Warm the peanut butter slightly and dollop it evenly over the brownie batter before using a butter knife to gently swirl in decorative motions.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger pan or two 9×13 pans and adjust the baking time slightly, checking around the 35-minute mark.

Do I need to refrigerate the brownies?

Not unless you want to store them longer than a few days. They do just fine at room temperature.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! They actually taste even better the next day after the flavors settle.

Why did my brownies turn out dry?

Most likely they were overbaked. Pull them out when there are still a few moist crumbs on the toothpick.

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Conclusion

Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies are the perfect marriage of two timeless flavors—rich chocolate and nutty, salty peanut butter. They’re easy to make, look impressive, and taste like a bakery-level indulgence. Whether you’re baking for guests, family, or just yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy every craving. Don’t be surprised if they disappear before they’ve even cooled!

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