If you’re the kind of person who can’t decide between a fudgy brownie and a spoonful of peanut butter, this dessert was made for you. These Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies deliver the best of both worlds: rich, chocolatey depth with a creamy, nutty ripple that adds visual flair and irresistible flavor. They’re the kind of dessert that looks bakery-fancy but comes together easily in your own kitchen.

The swirls of peanut butter are not just a topping, they’re a decadent thread woven through each bite. This isn’t your average brownie. It’s got personality. Whether you’re baking for a special gathering, a weekday treat, or a late-night craving, these brownies are always a good idea.

Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Swirl Brownie Recipe

The contrast between the deep cocoa brownie base and the smooth, salty peanut butter is pure magic. These brownies strike that perfect balance of chewy edges and gooey centers, with every bite bursting with flavor. Plus, they’re made with simple pantry ingredients and no fancy tools, which makes them an easy go-to.

What Kind of Peanut Butter Should I Use?

Creamy peanut butter works best for swirling. You want it soft and spreadable so it blends beautifully into the brownie batter. Avoid natural peanut butters that separate, as they can be too oily and hard to swirl. If you’re feeling adventurous, a touch of crunchy peanut butter can add fun texture, but keep it minimal so it doesn’t interfere with the marbling.

Ingredients for the Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies

Making these brownies doesn’t require anything unusual, but each ingredient plays a key role in creating that iconic flavor and texture.

Unsalted Butter gives the brownies richness and helps create that soft, chewy texture we all crave.

Granulated Sugar provides sweetness and that signature brownie crust on top.

Brown Sugar adds moisture and a subtle molasses flavor that deepens the chocolate notes.

Eggs bind everything together and give structure to the brownies.

Vanilla Extract enhances all the flavors, making both the chocolate and peanut butter sing.

Cocoa Powder is what gives these brownies their deep, dark chocolate taste.

All-Purpose Flour gives structure and chew without making the brownies cakey.

Salt brings out all the other flavors and keeps the sweetness in check.

Creamy Peanut Butter is the star of the swirl, adding creaminess, saltiness, and that addictive peanutty kick.

How To Make the Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies

Step 1: Melt and Mix the Base

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8 baking pan with parchment paper. In a saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in the granulated sugar and brown sugar while the butter is still warm.

Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients

Whisk in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth and glossy.

Step 3: Make the Chocolate Batter

Sift in the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, and salt. Gently fold the mixture with a spatula just until combined. Don’t overmix.

Step 4: Create the Swirl

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth it out. Drop spoonfuls of creamy peanut butter over the top, then use a knife to gently swirl it through the batter. Don’t overdo it — you want visible ribbons.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 28 to 32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool before slicing for the cleanest cuts.

How to Store and Serve Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies

These brownies are best enjoyed slightly warm or at room temperature when the texture is fudgy and the swirl is just a bit soft. If you’re making them ahead, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze them individually wrapped, and just warm up before serving.

This recipe yields about 16 square brownies, making it perfect for sharing at small parties, bake sales, or just keeping in the fridge for personal indulgence throughout the week.

What to Serve With Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies?

Vanilla Ice Cream

The cold creaminess of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the warm, dense texture of the brownies.

Whipped Cream

A soft, airy dollop of whipped cream adds lightness and a hint of elegance.

Fresh Berries

Strawberries or raspberries offer tartness and freshness that balance the richness of the dessert.

Chocolate Sauce

For true chocoholics, a drizzle of extra chocolate sauce turns this into a lava-like dream.

Salted Caramel Drizzle

Add a warm caramel sauce over the top for a sweet-and-salty flavor explosion.

Glass of Cold Milk

Sometimes, all you need is a classic combo — and nothing beats brownies and milk.

Coffee or Espresso

The bitterness of coffee complements the sweetness of the brownie perfectly.

Toasted Nuts

Serve with crushed roasted peanuts or pecans for added crunch and a flavor boost.

Want More Dessert Ideas with a Twist?

If you’re loving these Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies, here are some other delicious ideas from the Janet Dishes kitchen you should definitely try:

Ooey Gooey Butter Cake for a rich and buttery indulgence.
Classic French Butter Cookies if you like your desserts delicate and crisp.
Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies for even more peanut butter goodness.
Easter Cake Mix Cookie Bars to get creative with seasonal flavors.
Lemon Truffles when you want something sweet and zesty.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go for creamy or crunchy peanut butter? Did you sneak in some chocolate chips?

I love seeing how you make these recipes your own. Questions and feedback are always welcome. Let’s bake something amazing together.

Explore beautifully curated desserts and more at Janet Dishes on Pinterest and get inspired for your next sweet craving.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies are more than just a treat — they’re a moment of joy baked into every square. With rich chocolate and salty-sweet swirls, they’re impossible to resist and easy to make. Whether you’re sharing with friends or keeping them all to yourself, these brownies never disappoint.