If you have a soft spot for rich, melt-in-your-mouth desserts, then this Fudgy Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Imagine a decadent brownie so moist and fudgy that every bite melts away your worries, paired perfectly with ribbons of creamy peanut butter and a delightful crunch from chocolate and peanut butter chips. This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, bringing together classic flavors in a way that feels both nostalgic and exciting. Whether you’re baking for a cozy night in or impressing friends at your next gathering, these brownies deliver pure joy in every square.

Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple and found in most kitchens, yet each plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of fudgy richness and peanut butter goodness. From the velvety cocoa powder that deepens the chocolate flavor to the luscious peanut butter that adds creamy contrast, every component is essential for that signature taste and texture.
- 1 cup unsalted butter: Provides a rich, smooth base that keeps the brownies moist and fudgy.
- 2 cups granulated sugar: Adds the perfect level of sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.
- 4 large eggs: Bind everything together and contribute to the fudgy texture.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Gives structure without making the brownies cakey.
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Delivers intense chocolate flavor and that deep brown color we all love.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic undertone that elevates the entire dessert.
- 1 cup peanut butter: Brings creamy richness and a nutty depth that makes this brownie truly special.
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips: Extra bursts of melted chocolate magic in each bite.
- 1/2 cup peanut butter chips: Adds a delightful texture contrast and peanut butter punch on top.
How to Make Fudgy Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Properly preparing your baking dish is key—grease a 9×13 inch pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure your brownies come out easily and keep that perfect shape.
Step 2: Melt Butter and Mix Sugar
In a medium saucepan, gently melt the butter over low heat. This step creates a buttery, luscious base. Remove from heat and quickly stir in the granulated sugar until well combined. The contrast between warm butter and sugar helps achieve that shiny, crackly top that brownie lovers crave.
Step 3: Beat in Eggs One at a Time
Adding the eggs one by one ensures they are fully incorporated, leading to a consistent batter. Beat well after each addition to develop the right texture and richness for your fudgy peanut butter brownies.
Step 4: Stir in Vanilla
Vanilla extract is a small but mighty ingredient that intensifies the chocolate and peanut butter flavors, adding warmth and depth to the overall taste.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients Separately
Whisk the flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt in a bowl. Mixing the dry ingredients ahead of time helps them blend smoothly into the wet mixture, creating a tender and velvety brownie texture.
Step 6: Blend Dry Ingredients into Wet Batter
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture, stirring just until everything comes together. Overmixing can make brownies tough, so take care to stop as soon as no flour streaks remain.
Step 7: Create the Layers
Pour half of the batter into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it out evenly. Then, soften the peanut butter in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds to make it spreadable, and layer it over the brownie batter. This peanut butter layer is the star that brings a creamy, irresistible surprise inside every bite.
Step 8: Top with Remaining Batter and Chips
Spread the rest of the brownie batter over the peanut butter layer. Sprinkle the chocolate chips and peanut butter chips on top for extra hits of gooey chocolate and crunchy peanut butter pops.
Step 9: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Keep an eye on them and insert a toothpick near the center—when it comes out with a few moist crumbs, your brownies are ready. This ensures they stay fudgy and not cakey.
Step 10: Cool Before Serving
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan. This step helps them set perfectly, making them easier to cut and enhancing the fudgy consistency.
How to Serve Fudgy Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe

Garnishes
Sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar or add a dollop of whipped cream for an elegant touch. A drizzle of melted chocolate or caramel can also elevate the presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
Serve your brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a tall glass of cold milk to balance the richness and add a creamy contrast. Fresh berries on the side can also add a refreshing burst of flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
Think about layering these brownies in a dessert parfait with alternating layers of whipped cream and chopped nuts. Or cut them into small bite-sized pieces and serve them on a platter with toothpicks for easy sharing at parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your fudgy peanut butter brownies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay divine for up to four days, allowing you to enjoy them whenever a craving hits.
Freezing
If you want to make these brownies last longer, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months without losing their fudgy texture or flavor.
Reheating
To revive your brownies after freezing, let them thaw at room temperature and warm them for about 10 seconds in the microwave. This quick heat-up brings back that gooey warmth that makes them irresistible.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add an extra textural element that some people really love in their fudgy peanut butter brownies.
What if I don’t have peanut butter chips?
No worries! You can substitute with extra chocolate chips or even chopped peanuts for a similar crunchy peanut butter flavor.
How do I know when the brownies are done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. This ensures perfect fudgy brownies rather than cakey ones.
Can I halve the recipe?
Yes, you can easily halve the ingredients and bake in a smaller pan, adjusting the baking time accordingly—start checking around 20 minutes.
Are these brownies gluten-free?
This recipe uses all-purpose flour, so it’s not gluten-free. However, you can experiment with a gluten-free flour blend for a similar texture.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dessert that combines rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter in one unforgettable bite, you absolutely must try this Fudgy Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe. It’s easy to make, irresistible to eat, and guaranteed to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Go ahead and treat yourself and your loved ones—these brownies deliver happiness by the panful!
Print
Fudgy Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These fudgy peanut butter brownies combine rich cocoa and creamy peanut butter for a decadent treat. Layers of moist chocolate batter with peanut butter swirls are topped with chocolate and peanut butter chips, creating the perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Peanut Butter Layer & Toppings
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup peanut butter chips
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Melt butter and sugar: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the granulated sugar until combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter.
- Add flavoring: Stir in the vanilla extract thoroughly to incorporate its rich aroma and flavor.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mix to the butter mixture, folding gently until just combined—do not overmix to keep brownies tender.
- Layer brownie batter and peanut butter: Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. In a microwave-safe bowl, soften the peanut butter by microwaving for 20-30 seconds until easy to spread. Carefully spread the peanut butter layer over the brownie batter.
- Add remaining batter and toppings: Pour the remaining brownie batter over the peanut butter layer, spreading it evenly to cover. Sprinkle chocolate chips and peanut butter chips evenly across the top for extra texture and flavor.
- 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, indicating fudgy brownies inside.
- Cool and serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into bars. This helps the layers set and makes for cleaner slices. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- For a more intense peanut butter flavor, use natural, creamy peanut butter without added sugar.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
- To make cutting easier, chill the brownies for 30 minutes after cooling completely.
- You can substitute peanut butter chips with chopped peanuts for added crunch.
- Ensure not to overbake to maintain fudgy texture—check doneness starting at 30 minutes.