Name: Peanut Butter Swirl Brownie Skillet
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup peanut butter; 1/4 cup oil or melted butter; 1/2 cup applesauce or mashed banana; 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp baking soda; 3/4 cup sugar or granulated sweetener of choice; 1/2 cup spelt, oat, or all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup chocolate chips; Extra peanut butter for swirling on top

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This Peanut Butter Swirl Brownie Skillet is a rich, gooey, one-skillet dessert that brings together the unbeatable duo of chocolate and peanut butter. Baked entirely in one pan with minimal mess, it’s a decadent treat that’s easy to whip up and even easier to devour—perfect for weeknight baking or impressing guests without the fuss.

Peanut Butter Swirl Brownie Skillet

Ingredients

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

½ cup peanut butter

¼ cup oil or melted butter

½ cup applesauce or mashed banana

1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract

½ cup cocoa powder

¼ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon baking soda

¾ cup sugar or granulated sweetener of choice

½ cup spelt, oat, or all-purpose flour

½ cup chocolate chips

Directions

I preheat the oven to 330°F (165°C).

In an oven-safe skillet or pot, I mix the peanut butter, oil, applesauce, and vanilla until everything is smooth and well combined.

Next, I stir in the cocoa powder, salt, baking soda, and sugar until the mixture comes together.

I add the flour and gently stir until just mixed—avoiding overmixing helps keep the brownies soft and fudgy.

I fold in the chocolate chips for extra melty bites.

I spread the batter evenly in the skillet and swirl a bit of extra peanut butter on top for a beautiful marbled effect.

I bake it for 18–22 minutes, until the center is just set and a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.

I let it cool for at least 15 minutes if I want clean slices—but honestly, digging in warm with a spoon is my favorite way to enjoy it.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 9 servings.

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Calories: Around 220 kcal per serving

Variations

I like switching things up depending on what I have in the pantry. I sometimes use almond butter instead of peanut butter for a slightly different flavor. For an extra indulgent version, I sprinkle flaky sea salt on top after baking. If I want to make it gluten-free, I just use oat flour, and it still comes out perfectly fudgy. I’ve even added chopped nuts or a swirl of jam for a fun twist.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers right in the skillet (covered with foil) or transfer them to an airtight container. It keeps well at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for about 5 days. When I want to reheat, I just pop a slice in the microwave for 15–20 seconds, or warm the whole skillet in the oven at 300°F until heated through.

FAQs

How do I make this brownie skillet gluten-free?

I use oat flour or certified gluten-free all-purpose flour to make this recipe gluten-free. It still bakes up wonderfully fudgy and rich.

Can I substitute the applesauce?

Yes, I often swap applesauce with mashed banana. It adds a subtle banana flavor and keeps the texture moist. Greek yogurt can work too, but it changes the taste slightly.

Can I use natural peanut butter?

Absolutely. I usually go for a natural peanut butter with no added sugar or oils. Just make sure to stir it well so it’s smooth before mixing.

How do I know when the brownies are done?

I check by inserting a toothpick in the center—it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not raw batter. I avoid overbaking to keep the center fudgy.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes! I double the ingredients and bake it in a larger skillet or baking dish. I just add a few more minutes to the baking time and keep an eye on the center.

Conclusion

This Peanut Butter Swirl Brownie Skillet is the kind of dessert I turn to when I want something quick, comforting, and irresistibly chocolatey. With its one-pan ease and rich flavor, it’s ideal for casual nights in or cozy gatherings. I love how customizable it is—and the fact that cleanup is a breeze makes it even better. Whether I serve it warm and gooey or let it cool for neater slices, it always hits the spot.

Recipe:

Peanut Butter Swirl Brownie Skillet

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 9 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Peanut Butter Swirl Brownie Skillet is a rich, gooey, one-pan dessert combining chocolate and peanut butter. It's easy to make, requires minimal cleanup, and delivers a fudgy center with crispy edges and irresistible swirls of peanut butter.

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 330°F (165°C).
In an oven-safe skillet or pot, mix the peanut butter, oil, applesauce, and vanilla until smooth and well combined.
Stir in the cocoa powder, salt, baking soda, and sugar until the mixture comes together.
Add the flour and stir gently until just mixed to avoid overmixing.
Fold in the chocolate chips.
Spread the batter evenly in the skillet and swirl extra peanut butter on top for a marbled effect.
Bake for 18–22 minutes, until the center is just set and a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Let cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing, or enjoy warm straight from the skillet with a spoon.