Name: Creamy Peanut Butter‑Brownie Swirl Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup natural peanut butter (smooth); 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips; 3/4 cup unsweetened applesauce; 1/4 cup cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3 large eggs; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar

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Creamy Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Bars a rich and fudgy brownie meets silky peanut butter in this irresistible dessert that’s made to satisfy every sweet craving. These bars are dense, chocolatey, and layered with smooth swirls of peanut butter for the perfect marriage of two classic flavors. Whether I’m hosting a get-together or just in the mood for a comforting treat, these swirl bars always deliver.

Creamy Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Bars

Ingredients

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

1 cup natural peanut butter (smooth)

2 cups semi‑sweet chocolate chips

¾ cup unsweetened applesauce

¼ cup cocoa powder

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

½ teaspoon salt

3 large eggs

½ cup all‑purpose flour

¼ cup granulated sugar

Directions

I start by preheating the oven to 350 °F (175 °C) and lining an 8‑inch square baking pan with parchment paper, making sure there’s a bit of overhang so I can lift the bars out easily later.

Then I melt about 1½ cups of chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl using 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth and glossy.

Once melted, I stir in the peanut butter, applesauce, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt until the mixture is completely combined and silky.

In another bowl, I whisk together the eggs and sugar until they’re slightly frothy. I fold this into the chocolate-peanut butter mixture.

I gently stir in the flour, making sure not to overmix so the bars stay fudgy.

I pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing it out evenly.

I melt the remaining ½ cup of chocolate chips and drizzle it over the top. Then I take a knife or skewer and swirl it through the batter to create that beautiful marbled look.

I bake for 25‑30 minutes, just until the edges are set and a toothpick near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

I let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before lifting them out and slicing them into 12 even squares.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings: 12 bars

Calories: Approx. 280 kcal per bar

Variations

When I’m feeling creative, I switch things up by adding chopped peanuts or chocolate chunks into the batter for added texture. Sometimes I use almond butter instead of peanut butter for a different nutty flavor, or swirl in a bit of raspberry jam on top for a sweet-tart contrast. For an even more decadent version, I sprinkle sea salt on top right after baking.

Storage/Reheating

I keep these bars stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If I want to keep them longer, I refrigerate them for up to a week. They also freeze beautifully — I wrap them individually and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. To enjoy, I just let them thaw at room temp or microwave them for 10-15 seconds to bring back the gooey texture.

FAQs

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

I check the edges to see if they’ve set and use a toothpick in the center — it should come out with moist crumbs, not raw batter.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?

Yes, I’ve used crunchy peanut butter for added texture, and it works well! Just make sure it’s natural and not too oily.

What can I use instead of applesauce?

Mashed ripe banana or Greek yogurt can work as a substitute, though it might slightly alter the flavor and texture.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. I double the ingredients and use a 9x13-inch pan. Baking time may increase slightly, so I keep an eye on the doneness.

Do I need to use natural peanut butter?

Natural peanut butter is preferred for consistency and flavor, but in a pinch, I’ve used regular creamy peanut butter with decent results — just reduce the sugar slightly.

Conclusion

These Creamy Peanut Butter‑Brownie Swirl Bars are everything I want in a dessert: rich, chocolatey, moist, and easy to make. With just a few steps and simple ingredients, I can create a show-stopping treat that pleases any crowd—or just me on a cozy night in. Whether I’m baking for a special occasion or simply indulging, these bars never disappoint.

Recipe:

Creamy Peanut Butter‑Brownie Swirl Bars

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 12 bars
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A rich, fudgy brownie swirled with creamy natural peanut butter for the perfect balance of chocolatey indulgence and nutty goodness. These swirl bars are easy to make, visually impressive, and ideal for any occasion.

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
Melt 1½ cups of the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
Stir in the peanut butter, applesauce, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt into the melted chocolate until fully combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until slightly frothy.
Fold the egg mixture into the chocolate-peanut butter mixture until combined.
Gently stir in the flour, being careful not to overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top evenly.
Melt the remaining ½ cup of chocolate chips and drizzle over the batter. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the chocolate into a marbled pattern.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before lifting out and slicing into 12 squares.