Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownies – Rich, Fudgy, and Irresistibly Swirled

These Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownies combine the deep, decadent flavor of rich cocoa with the creamy indulgence of peanut butter. Each bite delivers fudgy chocolate goodness perfectly balanced with a swirl of nutty sweetness. They’re a match made in dessert heaven — ideal for satisfying a chocolate craving while offering a fun twist on a classic brownie.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fudgy Chocolate Base – Deep cocoa flavor and a dense, moist texture.
Perfect Peanut Butter Swirl – Adds a creamy, nutty contrast to the rich chocolate.
Simple Ingredients – Pantry staples come together in minutes.
Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal effort.

Ingredients

For the brownie batter:

• ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
• ¼ cup creamy peanut butter (melted slightly)
• ½ cup brown sugar (or sugar substitute)
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ¼ tsp baking powder
• Pinch of salt

For the swirl:

• 3 tbsp creamy peanut butter
• 1 tbsp powdered sugar (optional, for sweetness)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly spray with nonstick spray.

2. Make the Brownie Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together applesauce, melted peanut butter, brown sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth.
In a separate bowl, mix flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Add dry ingredients to wet and stir until just combined.

3. Prepare the Peanut Butter Swirl
In a small bowl, mix peanut butter and powdered sugar until smooth.

4. Assemble the Brownies
Pour brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter mixture over the top and swirl gently with a knife for a marbled effect.

5. Bake
Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking for a fudgier texture.

6. Cool and Serve
Let brownies cool completely before cutting into 12 squares.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 160
Protein: 4g
Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Sugar: 12g
Fiber: 2g

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overbake – Keeps brownies soft and fudgy.
• Warm Peanut Butter Slightly – Makes swirling easier and more beautiful.
• Sweetness Control – Adjust sugar based on your taste or the sweetness of your peanut butter.

Why This Recipe Works

Using applesauce reduces the need for oil, keeping the brownies moist while lightening them up. The rich cocoa pairs perfectly with the nutty peanut butter swirl for a flavor combination that never fails to please.

These Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownies are a chocolate-lover’s dream with a nutty twist. Easy to make and irresistibly rich, they’re perfect for sharing — though you might just want to keep them all to yourself.