Name: Fudgy Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup peanut butter (natural or regular, smooth or crunchy); 1/2 cup applesauce; 1/2 cup maple syrup or honey; 2 tsp pure vanilla extract; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/2 cup oat flour; 1/2 cup chocolate chips

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These fudgy peanut butter swirl brownies are one of those desserts I come back to again and again. I love how the rich chocolate base pairs with creamy peanut butter, creating a nostalgic, bakery-style treat that still feels simple and wholesome. They’re deeply chocolatey, soft in the center, and just sweet enough to satisfy a serious brownie craving.

Fudgy Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies

Ingredients

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

½ cup peanut butter (natural or regular, smooth or crunchy)

½ cup applesauce

½ cup maple syrup or honey

2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

½ cup cocoa powder

¼ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon baking soda

½ cup oat flour

½ cup chocolate chips

Directions

I start by preheating my oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly greasing it.

In a medium bowl, I whisk together the peanut butter, applesauce, maple syrup, and vanilla until the mixture is smooth and glossy.

Next, I add the cocoa powder, salt, baking soda, and oat flour, stirring until everything is fully incorporated and no dry pockets remain.

I gently fold in the chocolate chips, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.

I pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it into an even layer. When I want extra indulgence, I dollop a little more peanut butter on top and swirl it through the batter with a knife.

I bake the brownies for 20–25 minutes, until the center is just set and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs. After baking, I let them cool completely in the pan. For the best fudgy texture, I like to refrigerate them for about an hour before slicing.

Servings and Timing

I usually make these brownies in about 10 minutes of prep time, followed by 25 minutes of baking. Including cooling and chilling, the total time comes to around 1 hour and 35 minutes. This recipe yields 9 brownies, with approximately 160 calories per serving.

Variations

When I want a deeper flavor, I swap cocoa powder for raw cacao powder. For extra crunch, I like adding chopped peanuts or walnuts to the batter. If I’m making these for a vegan crowd, I stick with maple syrup instead of honey and use dairy-free chocolate chips. I also sometimes sprinkle flaky sea salt on top before baking for a sweet-salty finish.

Storage/Reheating

I store these brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They also freeze well for up to 2 months. When I want to reheat one, I let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes or warm it briefly in the microwave for a softer, gooier texture.

FAQs

Can I make these brownies vegan?

I make them vegan by using maple syrup instead of honey and choosing dairy-free chocolate chips.

Do these brownies taste like applesauce?

I don’t notice an applesauce flavor at all. It simply keeps the brownies moist and fudgy.

Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?

I’ve tried almond butter, and it works well, though the flavor is a bit milder and less nostalgic.

How do I know when the brownies are done?

I pull them out when the center is just set and a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs rather than wet batter.

Can I double this recipe?

I double it easily and bake it in a 9x13-inch pan, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Conclusion

These fudgy peanut butter swirl brownies are one of my favorite easy desserts to bake when I want something comforting and rich without a lot of fuss. I love how they balance deep chocolate flavor with creamy peanut butter, and they’re always a hit whether I’m serving them fresh or chilled straight from the fridge.

📖 Recipe:

Fudgy Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Yield: 9 brownies
Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Rich, fudgy brownies with a deep chocolate base and a creamy peanut butter swirl, made with simple pantry ingredients and naturally sweetened for a wholesome yet indulgent dessert.

Ingredients

½ cup peanut butter (natural or regular, smooth or crunchy)

½ cup applesauce

½ cup maple syrup or honey

2 tsp pure vanilla extract

½ cup cocoa powder

¼ tsp salt

½ tsp baking soda

½ cup oat flour

½ cup chocolate chips

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a medium bowl, whisk together peanut butter, applesauce, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla until smooth.
Add cocoa powder, salt, baking soda, and oat flour; stir until fully combined.
Fold in chocolate chips evenly.
Spread batter into prepared pan. Optional: dollop extra peanut butter on top and swirl with a knife.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the center is just set and a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
Cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for about 1 hour before slicing for best texture.