Name: Decadent Peanut Butter Brownies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (creamy or chunky); 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce; 1/2 cup maple syrup or honey; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 3/4 cup whole wheat flour (or all-purpose flour); 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup dairy-free chocolate chips (optional)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

These rich, fudgy Decadent Peanut Butter Brownies combine the perfect balance of chocolate and peanut butter flavors, with a moist, chewy texture that’s easy to make and absolutely irresistible. I love how every bite melts in your mouth, delivering that classic combo of sweet and nutty in a wholesome way.

Ingredients

1/2 cup natural peanut butter (creamy or chunky)

1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce

1/2 cup maple syrup or hone

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

3/4 cup whole wheat flour (or all-purpose flour)

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup dairy-free chocolate chips (optional)

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

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

In a large bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, applesauce, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

In a separate bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. I make sure not to overmix to keep the brownies tender.

Fold in the chocolate chips if using, for extra melty pockets of chocolate.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs but not wet batter.

Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 9 servings. Prep time is roughly 10 minutes, baking takes around 25 minutes, so the total time I spend from start to finish is about 35 minutes. It’s a quick treat to whip up even on busy days.

Variations

I sometimes swap maple syrup for honey depending on what I have on hand or my preferred sweetness. Using chunky peanut butter adds a nice texture, while creamy keeps it smooth. For an extra indulgent twist, I like adding a handful of chopped nuts or swirling in some melted dark chocolate before baking. You can also use all-purpose flour if whole wheat isn’t available, but whole wheat adds a bit more depth and nutrition.

Storage/reheating

I store these brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If I want them to last longer, I freeze them wrapped tightly for up to 2 months. To reheat, I pop a brownie in the microwave for about 15 seconds to enjoy it warm and gooey again—perfect for a cozy snack.

FAQs

Can I use a different nut butter instead of peanut butter?

Absolutely. Almond butter or cashew butter work well and bring their own unique flavor, but make sure they are natural and not too oily for the best texture.

Is it possible to make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes! I substitute the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the recipe suitable for gluten intolerance.

Can I replace the applesauce with something else?

You can try mashed banana or pumpkin puree, but applesauce keeps the brownies moist without adding extra flavor that might overpower the peanut butter.

Are these brownies vegan?

They can be if you use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free.

How do I know when the brownies are done?

I insert a toothpick in the center. It should come out with moist crumbs but not wet batter. This keeps the brownies fudgy, not dry.

Conclusion

I’m always impressed by how these decadent peanut butter brownies deliver that classic indulgence while staying simple and a bit healthier. Whether I’m craving a quick dessert or want to share a treat with friends, this recipe hits the spot every time. The balance of chocolate and peanut butter with a chewy, moist texture makes these brownies truly irresistible.

Recipe:

Decadent Peanut Butter Brownies

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 9 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Rich and fudgy peanut butter brownies with a perfect balance of chocolate and peanut butter flavors, moist and chewy with a healthier twist using natural ingredients.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a large bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, applesauce, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
In a separate bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep brownies tender.
Fold in the chocolate chips if using.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly with a spatula.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs but not wet batter.
Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.