Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies for Two

There’s something incredibly satisfying about baking a fresh batch of brownies, and when you’re only cooking for two, these Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies are the perfect solution! With a rich chocolate flavor and a creamy peanut butter swirl, they are the ideal treat to share with your favorite person—or to indulge in all by yourself. This recipe is simple, quick, and requires minimal ingredients. Grab your loaf pan, and let’s get started!

Why It Works Every Time

These Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies for Two are a dream come true for brownie lovers. The balance of chocolate and peanut butter creates a delightful flavor combination that’s hard to resist. The use of melted butter ensures a fudgy texture, while the small batch size means you can whip them up whenever a craving strikes without leftovers tempting you for days. With straightforward steps and easy cleanup, these brownies are bound to become a staple in your baking repertoire.

Ingredient List

• 1/4 cup (2 oz) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 tablespoons (15g) unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted if lumpy
• 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
• 1/8 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon (0.5 oz) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons (15g) powdered sugar
• 3 tablespoons smooth peanut butter
• 1/8 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Before You Start: Equipment

• 9×5-inch loaf pan: Perfect size for a small batch of brownies.
• Parchment paper: For easy removal and cleanup.
• Mixing bowls: For combining ingredients.
• Whisk: To mix wet and dry ingredients smoothly.
• Rubber spatula: To scrape every last bit of batter.

Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies for Two, Made Easy

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your brownies bake evenly and come out perfectly fudgy.

Step 2: Prepare Your Pan

Line the 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides to make removing the brownies easier later on. This step is key for avoiding any sticky situations!

Step 3: Mix the Brownie Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar. Whisk until combined and smooth. Next, add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a rubber spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to denser brownies.

Step 5: Prepare the Peanut Butter Swirl

In a separate small bowl, mix the melted butter, powdered sugar, peanut butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth.

Step 6: Assemble the Brownies

Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing it out evenly. Dollop half of the peanut butter mixture over the batter and use a knife or skewer to create swirls. Pour the remaining brownie batter on top and repeat the dolloping and swirling with the remaining peanut butter mixture.

Step 7: Bake

Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake—these brownies are meant to be fudgy!

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out of the pan, then allow them to cool completely on a wire rack before cutting into squares. Enjoy your Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies for Two!

No-Store Runs Needed

• Granulated sugar and powdered sugar are pantry staples.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder adds depth to the chocolate flavor.
• All-purpose flour and baking powder are essential for structure.
• Eggs are often on hand, and you can always use a flax egg if needed.
• Peanut butter is a common ingredient that most households have.

Testing Timeline

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Baking time: 20-25 minutes
• Cooling time: 10 minutes in the pan + additional time on a wire rack
• Total time: Approximately 45-60 minutes

Save for Later: Storage Tips

These Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies for Two are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers (which is unlikely!), here are some storage tips:

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• You can freeze the brownies for up to 3 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing them in a freezer bag.

Reader Q&A

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful texture to your brownies, providing little bursts of peanut flavor in every bite.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that your baking powder is also gluten-free.

What if I don’t have unsalted butter?

You can use salted butter, but just omit the additional pinch of salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.

How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. If it comes out clean, they may be overbaked.

One Pan, More Ideas

• Sally’s Baking Addiction for more baking inspiration.
• Pinch of Yum for delicious dessert recipes.
• Minimalist Baker for simple recipes with fewer ingredients.

That’s a Wrap

These Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies for Two are just the right amount of indulgence for a cozy night in or a sweet treat to share. The combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter is irresistible, and with such a straightforward recipe, you’ll be whipping them up on repeat. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving something sweet, these brownies are sure to hit the spot. Embrace your inner baker and enjoy every gooey bite!