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- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder - 1 cup granulated sugar - 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted - 3 large eggs - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter - 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional) These ingredients create a rich and fudgy brownie. The cocoa powder gives deep chocolate flavor. Both sugars add sweetness and moisture. The flour helps bind the mix, while eggs add structure. Butter makes it rich, while vanilla enhances flavor. - 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips Adding chocolate chips is fun! They add extra chocolatey goodness. You can also use dark chocolate chips for a richer taste. Experiment with flavors like white chocolate or butterscotch chips to make it your own. - 8x8-inch baking dish - Mixing bowls - Whisk or spoon - Microwave-safe bowl - Knife or skewer Using the right tools helps your baking go smoothly. A sturdy mixing bowl is key for combining ingredients. The microwave-safe bowl is for warming the peanut butter. A knife or skewer helps you swirl the peanut butter for a lovely look. {{ingredient_image_2}} First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, grab an 8x8-inch baking dish. Lightly grease it or line it with parchment paper. This step helps you remove the brownies easily later. In a large bowl, add the following dry ingredients: - 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder - 1 cup granulated sugar - 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder - 1/4 teaspoon salt Whisk these together until they blend well. This mix gives your brownies a rich chocolate flavor. Now, pour in the melted butter, crack in three large eggs, and add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix these ingredients with a sturdy spoon or spatula. Stir until just combined; don’t overmix. Overmixing can make your brownies tough. Next, if you want chocolate chips, gently fold in 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips. Pour half of the brownie batter into your prepared dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom. In a microwave-safe bowl, heat 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter for 20-30 seconds. This makes it soft and easy to drizzle. Drop spoonfuls of the warm peanut butter over the brownie batter. Then, pour the remaining brownie batter on top of the peanut butter layer. Spread it gently so you don’t mix them too much. To create a nice marbled look, use a knife or skewer to swirl the peanut butter into the brownie batter. Aim for a pretty pattern. Now, bake your brownies in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. To check if they’re done, insert a toothpick in the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake. After baking, take the pan out and let the brownies cool for 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting. Enjoy your delicious peanut butter brownies! To get soft and chewy brownies, don’t overmix the batter. Mix until just combined. This keeps air from getting in and makes the brownies dense. Bake them until a toothpick shows moist crumbs. It’s better to underbake slightly than to overbake. Let them cool fully before cutting. This helps them set and keeps the texture perfect. Store your brownies in an airtight container. They can last up to a week at room temperature. If you want them to last longer, wrap them tightly and freeze them. They freeze well for about three months. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight when you want a treat. One big mistake is using cold eggs. Always use room temperature eggs for better mixing. Another mistake is not greasing the pan. This can cause sticking. Avoid opening the oven door too soon while baking. This can cause the brownies to sink. Lastly, don’t skip the cooling time. Cutting too soon can make them fall apart. Pro Tips Use room temperature ingredients: Allow your eggs and butter to come to room temperature before mixing. This helps to create a smoother batter and ensures better incorporation of ingredients. Don’t overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough brownies that lose their fudgy texture. Experiment with swirls: Feel free to add additional swirls of other flavors, such as Nutella or caramel, for a unique twist on the classic peanut butter flavor. Check for doneness carefully: Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies; it should come out with a few moist crumbs. If it comes out clean, the brownies may be overbaked. {{image_4}} You can make your peanut butter brownies more exciting by adding nuts. Walnuts, pecans, or peanuts work great. Just chop them up and mix them in with the brownie batter. You can add around 1/2 cup of nuts for a nice crunch. If you like extra sweetness, try adding mini chocolate chips or caramel bits, too. These mix-ins make every bite different and fun. The type of peanut butter you use can change the taste. Creamy peanut butter gives a smooth texture. Crunchy peanut butter adds delightful bits throughout the brownies. You can also try flavored peanut butters, like chocolate or honey. Just remember to adjust the sweetness if needed. Experimenting with different peanut butters can lead to a new favorite version of these brownies. To make gluten-free peanut butter brownies, swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Many brands offer great options that work well in baking. Just make sure to check the labels. You may also want to add a bit more baking powder to help the brownies rise. With these simple changes, you can enjoy a tasty treat that fits your dietary needs. To keep your brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps prevent them from drying out. You can also wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Keep them at room temperature for up to four days. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigeration. You can freeze your brownies for up to three months. First, let them cool completely. Then, cut the brownies into squares. Wrap each square in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing. When you want one, just take it out and let it thaw at room temperature. To reheat brownies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the brownies on a baking sheet. Cover them loosely with foil to avoid drying out. Heat them for about 10-15 minutes. You can also microwave them for about 20-30 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat, or they might become tough. Enjoy your warm, gooey brownies! Yes, you can use natural peanut butter. It will change the texture a bit. Natural peanut butter has oil separation, so mix it well before use. This may make the brownies less smooth. If you prefer a richer taste, go for it! To check if your brownies are done, insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. Be careful, as overbaking can make them dry. Keep an eye on them, especially around the 25-minute mark. Peanut butter brownies pair well with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. You could also add fresh berries for a fruity touch. A drizzle of chocolate sauce can elevate the dessert too. Get creative with toppings to impress your guests! Brownies last about 3 to 4 days at room temperature when stored in an airtight container. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. You can also freeze brownies for up to three months. Just wrap them well to keep them fresh! You learned the key ingredients for making delicious peanut butter brownies. I shared the steps to create perfect marbled treats. You gained tips for the best texture and how to store them. Variations let you customize your brownies with nuts or gluten-free options. Remember, baking is about trying new things and having fun. Your brownies can be a hit with these tips. Enjoy every bite!

Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies

Deliciously rich brownies with a creamy peanut butter swirl.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 16
Calories 200 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 0.5 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 teaspoon baking powder
  • 0.25 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 0.5 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 0.5 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8x8-inch baking dish by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cocoa powder, granulated sugar, brown sugar, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk until well-blended.
  • Pour in the melted butter, crack in the eggs, and add the vanilla extract. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
  • If using chocolate chips, gently fold them into the brownie batter. Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  • In a small microwave-safe bowl, heat the peanut butter in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds until soft enough to stir.
  • Drop spoonfuls of the warmed peanut butter over the brownie batter. Pour the remaining batter over the peanut butter layer, spreading gently.
  • Use a knife or skewer to swirl the peanut butter into the brownie batter for a marbled effect.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs.
  • Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Cut the brownies into neat squares and dust the tops with powdered sugar for an elegant finish. Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Keyword brownies, dessert, peanut butter