If you’re looking for the ultimate dessert that packs all the comfort of home with a rich and nutty twist, look no further than these Peanut Butter Brownies. Think dense, fudgy bars swirled with creamy peanut butter flavor, tipped with just the right touch of sweetness and an almost melt-in-your-mouth texture. This is the kind of treat you’ll want to make for every gathering, bring to every bake sale, or simply enjoy warm out of the pan as an end-of-day indulgence. Peanut Butter Brownies turn a classic into something magical, making them impossible to forget once you’ve tried them.

Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love about these brownies is how utterly straightforward the ingredients are. Every single component plays a crucial part: from the smooth peanut butter that creates that signature depth, to the butter and sugars melding for chewiness, and the eggs ensuring a delicate richness. Simple pantry staples, when combined just right, turn into Peanut Butter Brownies that taste like pure bliss.

Peanut Butter (creamy, 1 cup): Provides the rich, nutty backbone and keeps the brownies moist.
Butter (unsalted, softened, 11 tablespoons): Gives tender texture and helps everything blend smoothly.
Light Brown Sugar (1 cup, packed): Adds a gentle molasses note that deepens flavor and adds chewiness.
Granulated Sugar (1 ⅓ cups): Delivers classic sweetness and that crackly brownie top.
Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons): Enhances the aroma and warmth in every bite.
Eggs (4 large): Bind the batter and give structure and richness to the final bars.
Baking Powder (2 teaspoons): Helps the brownies rise just enough, balancing density and lift.
Salt (1 teaspoon): Rounds out the flavors and makes the peanut butter truly shine.
All-Purpose Flour (2 cups): Keeps the brownies thick, sturdy, and delightfully chewy.

How to Make Peanut Butter Brownies

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

First things first: set yourself up for brownie success by preheating your oven to 325°F. Grab a trusty 9×13-inch pan, apply a generous layer of butter or a spritz of nonstick spray, and set aside. Lining with parchment paper is always a smart move if you want flawless bars later—just lift and slice with ease!

Step 2: Cream the Peanut Butter Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, softened unsalted butter, both the brown and granulated sugars, and the vanilla extract. Beat these together until light, fluffy, and well blended—this step is all about creating a soft, smooth base that bakes into perfectly tender Peanut Butter Brownies. A stand mixer makes quick work of this, but a hand mixer and a little elbow grease work wonders too.

Step 3: Add Eggs

Break in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This lets the batter become silky and cohesive, locking in moisture and helping your brownies stay rich and fudgy once baked.

Step 4: Fold in Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to sprinkle in the baking powder, salt, and flour. Mix just until your batter is smooth and everything is combined—no need to overdo it, or you risk tough brownies. The batter should be thick, pale golden, and impossibly tempting already!

Step 5: Fill the Pan and Bake

Pour the batter into your greased or parchment-lined pan and smooth it evenly with a spatula. Slide it into the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. The top should spring back when gently touched, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs. Overbaking is the enemy of fudginess, so start checking at 40 minutes.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Brownies

Garnishes

Dress up your plate by dusting the brownies with powdered sugar, scattering a handful of chopped roasted peanuts, or drizzling with a little extra melted peanut butter. A scoop of vanilla ice cream turns every serving into a celebration!

Side Dishes

Pair these rich brownies with a cold glass of milk for nostalgia, or with fresh berries for a hit of color and tang. A cup of coffee or hot chocolate also makes a warm, comforting combo for any peanut butter fan.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut your Peanut Butter Brownies into tiny bite-size squares for a party platter, stack on skewers with strawberries and bananas for a unique dessert kabob, or layer cubes into a parfait glass with whipped cream and chocolate sauce for a quick, impressive trifle.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cooled, keep your Peanut Butter Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature; they’ll stay moist and tasty for up to 4 days. Separate layers with parchment or wax paper so they don’t stick together.

Freezing

For longer storage, wrap individual brownie bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe zip bag or airtight container. These freeze well for up to 3 months, making them great for prepping ahead or emergency dessert cravings.

Reheating

To revive that just-baked magic, warm a brownie in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or pop several in a 300°F oven for a few minutes. This brings them back to their soft, gooey best—perfect alongside your favorite ice cream.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds extra texture and peanutty bits, making your Peanut Butter Brownies even more fun and delicious. Just be aware it may change the final chewiness a little, but in the best possible way.

What’s the best way to cut brownies neatly?

Wait until the brownies are completely cool, then use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts. For super clean slices, try chilling them first—this helps the bars hold their shape.

Can I halve the recipe?

Yes, you can! Halve all the ingredients and bake in an 8×8 or 9×9-inch pan. Keep an eye on the baking time and check for doneness at 25-30 minutes since the brownies will be thicker.

Are these Peanut Butter Brownies gluten-free?

The original recipe calls for all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. If you want a gluten-free version, try substituting a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. The texture will be a little different, but the flavor remains amazing.

Can I add chocolate chips or swirls?

Definitely! Stir in up to a cup of chocolate chips or chunks for a chocolate-peanut butter combo nobody can resist. You can also swirl in a bit of melted chocolate on top before baking for a pretty marbled effect.

Final Thoughts

There’s something about Peanut Butter Brownies that’s simply unbeatable—they combine nostalgia, comfort, and a punch of flavor in every bite. If you love peanut butter or just want your brownies a little more special, this is the recipe to try. Get ready for cheers and repeat requests from everyone lucky enough to share a pan with you!