Name: Peanut Butter Brownies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-485721H5M50S
Total time: 28 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup peanut butter (natural, creamy or chunky); 1/2 cup maple syrup or honey; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)

These peanut butter brownies are rich, fudgy, and perfectly balanced with a creamy swirl of peanut butter that adds a delightful crunch and irresistible flavor. I find them to be a decadent yet wholesome treat that satisfies every chocolate and peanut butter craving in just one bite.

Ingredients

1/2 cup peanut butter (natural, creamy or chunky)

1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1/2 cup maple syrup or honey

1/4 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly.

In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter and maple syrup (or honey) until smooth and creamy.

Add the cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt to the bowl, mixing well.

Crack the egg into the mixture and stir until fully incorporated. Add the vanilla extract and mix again.

Fold in the chocolate chips if I want extra melty chocolate goodness.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.

Optional: I like to swirl a few extra spoonfuls of peanut butter on top for a marbled effect.

Bake for 15-18 minutes, until the edges are set but the center remains soft and fudgy.

Let cool completely before cutting into squares. Enjoy the creamy, crunchy, and chocolatey bliss!

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 9 servings. It takes me roughly 10 minutes to prep and about 18 minutes to bake, for a total of 28 minutes from start to finish. Each serving contains approximately 220 calories.

Variations

I sometimes like to try different variations to mix things up:

Swap maple syrup for honey to add a slightly different sweetness.

Use crunchy peanut butter for extra texture or creamy for a smoother bite.

Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for more crunch.

Substitute dark chocolate chips with white or milk chocolate if I’m feeling indulgent.

For a vegan version, I use a flax egg instead of a regular egg and check my sweetener choice.

Storage/reheating

I keep these brownies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, I refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. When I’m ready to eat, I let them come to room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to bring back that fudgy softness.

FAQs

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free since it doesn’t contain any flour. Just be sure to check your cocoa powder and chocolate chips to confirm they’re gluten-free.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! I love using crunchy peanut butter for added texture, but creamy works great if you prefer a smoother bite.

What if I don’t have maple syrup? Can I use another sweetener?

You can substitute honey or even agave syrup in the same quantity. For a lower glycemic option, I sometimes use coconut sugar dissolved in a bit of warm water.

How can I make these brownies vegan?

Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) and use maple syrup or another plant-based sweetener. Also, choose dairy-free chocolate chips.

Can I add other mix-ins to the brownies?

Yes, I often add chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or even dried fruit like cranberries for extra flavor and texture.

Conclusion

I really enjoy making these peanut butter brownies whenever I want a quick, wholesome dessert that doesn’t skimp on flavor. The balance of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter makes them a crowd-pleaser every time. They’re simple to prepare, adaptable to dietary needs, and perfect for sharing or indulging solo. Once you try them, I’m sure you’ll keep coming back for another batch!

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