Fudgy Peanut Butter Brownies combine two of the most beloved flavors—rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter—into one irresistible treat. With a dense, fudgy texture and swirls of peanut butter, these brownies are sure to become a favorite for anyone who loves a decadent dessert. Whether you’re baking for a party, a family gathering, or just to satisfy your own sweet tooth, these brownies are simple to make and impossible to resist. Let’s get into this perfect combination of chocolatey goodness and peanut butter deliciousness!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients for Fudgy Peanut Butter Brownies
- Instructions for Fudgy Peanut Butter Brownies
- Tips & Notes
- Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients for Fudgy Peanut Butter Brownies
Brownie Base
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Peanut Butter Swirl
- 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Instructions for Fudgy Peanut Butter Brownies
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. Lightly grease the parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Whisk until smooth.
- Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients using a spatula until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Step 3: Make the Peanut Butter Swirl
- In a small bowl, mix the creamy peanut butter and powdered sugar until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Brownies
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly.
- Drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter mixture over the brownie batter. Use a butter knife or toothpick to swirl the peanut butter into the batter, creating a marbled effect.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake, as you want the brownies to remain fudgy.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, use the parchment overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan and cut into squares.
- Enjoy the rich, fudgy goodness with a glass of cold milk!
Tips & Notes
- Room Temperature Eggs: Use room temperature eggs for a smoother batter and a better texture in your brownies.
- Do Not Overmix: To keep the brownies fudgy, be careful not to overmix the batter after adding the flour.
- Measuring Peanut Butter: If the peanut butter is too thick, microwave it for about 10-15 seconds to make it easier to swirl into the batter.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Chocolate Chips: Stir in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for extra chocolatey goodness.
- Nutty Version: Add 1/2 cup of chopped peanuts for added crunch and texture.
- Salted Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle salted caramel over the top of the brownies before baking for a sweet and salty twist.
- Dark Chocolate Brownies: Use dark cocoa powder for a richer, deeper chocolate flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but make sure it’s well mixed and not too runny. Natural peanut butter tends to separate, so ensure it has a smooth consistency before using.
2. How do I store these brownies?
Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 1 week or freeze them for up to 3 months.
3. How do I know when the brownies are done?
The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter. They will continue to cook slightly as they cool, so it’s better to underbake than overbake for fudgy brownies.
Serving Suggestions
- Ice Cream: Serve warm brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
- Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate or caramel sauce over the top before serving for added sweetness.
- Whipped Cream: Top each brownie with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chopped peanuts for a fancy presentation.
These Fudgy Peanut Butter Brownies are a rich, decadent treat that brings together the classic flavors of chocolate and peanut butter in the best way possible. Their fudgy texture and perfect peanut butter swirl make them irresistible for any chocolate lover. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to satisfy a craving, these brownies are sure to impress.
Enjoy every fudgy bite, and happy baking!
