Decadently rich and seriously fudgy brownies filled with peanut butter swirls and generous chocolate chunks—each bite delivers chocolate-peanut butter nirvana perfect for dessert or snacking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ultimate indulgence: Thick, rich, and fudgy—the texture of your favorite bakery brownies at home.
Peanut butter swirl: Sweet and savory ribbons of peanut butter add flavor contrast and extra richness.
Chunky chocolate surprise: Melted pieces of bittersweet or milk chocolate throughout elevate flavor and texture.
Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for bake sales, gatherings, or satisfying your sweet tooth.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Unsalted butter
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Large eggs
Vanilla extract
All-purpose flour
Cocoa powder
Salt
Creamy peanut butter
Chocolate chunks or chips

directions

Preheat oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) pan with parchment paper, leaving a 2-inch overhang.
Melt butter, then whisk in granulated and brown sugars until smooth and slightly glossy.
Add eggs and vanilla, whisking until fully combined.
Stir in dry ingredients: Sift in flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Stir until just incorporated (do not overmix).
Add chocolate chunks: Fold in most of the chunks, reserving some for topping.
Layer peanut butter: Pour half the batter into pan. Spoon peanut butter in dollops, then swirl gently with a knife. Add remaining batter and more peanut butter for visual effect. Top with reserved chocolate chunks.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, until edges are set and a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
Cool completely in pan on a wire rack before lifting out and slicing into 9 or 12 squares.

Servings and timing

Servings: Makes 9 large or 12 moderate brownies
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Nutty twist: Add chopped peanuts or walnuts to the batter for crunch.
Flavored swirl: Use almond butter, Nutella, or hazelnut spread instead of peanut butter.
Spice it up: Stir in a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne for a subtle kick.
Dairy-free version: Replace butter with plant-based butter and use dairy-free chocolate.
Fudgy upgrade: Reduce flour by 2 tablespoons and add extra peanut butter for even denser texture.

storage/reheating

Storage: Keep brownies at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or refrigerate up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze baked and cut brownies between parchment layers in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.
Reheating: Warm briefly in a 350 °F oven (5–7 minutes) or pop in the microwave for a few seconds to regain gooey bliss.

FAQs

How do I know when they’re done?

The edges should be set and slightly pull away from the pan. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with moist crumbs—not wet batter.

Can I use natural vs. processed peanut butter?

Either works—but natural peanut butter may be thinner. Add a tablespoon of flour if it’s very runny to help swirl.

Why are my brownies cakey instead of fudgy?

Over-mixing, baking too long, or using too much flour can yield a cakier texture. Watch closely toward the end of baking.

Can I add more chocolate?

Yes—fold in extra chunks or sprinkle more on top before baking for an indulgent extra-rich experience.

How do I prevent peanut butter and chocolate from sinking?

Swirl gently, distribute evenly, and avoid overmixing when folding in add-ins.

Can I make these in a larger pan?

Yes—use a 9×13-inch pan but reduce baking time to 20–25 minutes; start checking early.

Is there a gluten-free option?

Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Expect similar texture and taste.

How far ahead can I prep the batter?

You can refrigerate batters up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes of bake time if chilling.

How can I make them extra gooey?

Use a bit more peanut butter, add an extra egg yolk, and avoid over-baking.

Can I double the recipe easily?

Yes—double all ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan, adjusting time as noted.

Conclusion

Fudgy Peanut Butter Chocolate Chunk Brownies deliver rich chocolate intensity, luscious peanut butter, and indulgent texture in one bite. Homemade, simple to bake, and endlessly crave-worthy.

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