Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I reached for the bag of creamy peanut butter, the tantalizing aroma of melting chocolate soon filled the kitchen, instantly transporting me back to cozy afternoons spent baking with my grandmother. Combining these cherished memories, I created my Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies—a delightful fusion of rich chocolate brownie and velvety peanut butter cookie. Not only are they quick to prepare, but they’re also a nostalgic treat that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or simply a chocolate devotee, you’re bound to enjoy every fudgy bite. Curious about how to whip up these captivating cookies and impress your friends at the next gathering? Let’s dive into the delicious details! Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible? Heavenly Fusion: These Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies marry two beloved flavors, combining the fudginess of a brownie with the creamy goodness of peanut butter. Quick & Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have these mouthwatering cookies ready to enjoy in no time! Dietary Flexibility: Whether you’re gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan, this recipe can be easily adapted to fit your dietary needs—no one will miss out! Nostalgic Comfort: Just one bite transports you back to those cozy days of baking memories, making these cookies a heartwarming treat to share. Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for gatherings, these cookies are sure to impress guests—pair them with a refreshing glass of milk or a steaming cup of coffee for an unforgettable experience. Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies Ingredients • To create these luscious Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies, gather the following ingredients: For the Peanut Butter Dough Creamy Peanut Butter – Adds nutty flavor and richness; almond butter is a great substitute if there are nut allergies. Butter (softened & melted) – Provides essential moisture and flavor; choose dairy-free butter for a vegan alternative. Brown Sugar – Contributes sweetness and a chewy texture; coconut sugar can be used for a refined sugar-free option. Egg – Binds the dough for structure; substitute with 1 tbsp of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tbsp water for a vegan option. Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; for the best results, no substitutions are needed. All-Purpose Flour – Provides necessary structure; swap with a gluten-free baking blend for gluten-free cookies. For the Brownie Dough Butter (melted) – Adds richness and moisture; ensure it’s melted for easy mixing. White Sugar – Sweetens the brownie part and helps create crispy edges; sugar substitutes work well if needed. Cocoa Powder – Infuses delicious chocolate flavor into the brownies; Dutch-process cocoa offers a milder taste alternative. Baking Soda & Baking Powder – Helps the cookies rise; ensure they’re fresh for optimal results. Salt – Balances the sweetness and elevates flavors; absolutely no substitutes needed. Chocolate Chips – Provides chocolatey texture and flavor; opt for dairy-free chocolate chips if you’re making it vegan. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies Step 1: Prepare Peanut Butter Dough In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of creamy peanut butter, ½ cup of softened and melted butter, and 1 cup of brown sugar. Beat the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Next, add in 1 egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, blending until fully incorporated. Gradually mix in 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and a pinch of salt until just combined. Step 2: Prepare Brownie Dough In a separate bowl, whisk together ½ cup of melted butter and 1 cup of white sugar until well combined, forming a smooth mixture. Sift in ½ cup of cocoa powder and mix until incorporated. Add in 1 egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, whisking until the batter is glossy. Gently fold in ½ cup of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and ½ cup of chocolate chips until no dry streaks remain. Step 3: Chill Both Doughs Cover each dough bowl separately with plastic wrap or a lid, then place them in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This chilling step is crucial as it firms up the dough, making it easier to scoop and swirl while also improving the texture of your Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies. Step 4: Form Cookies Once the doughs are chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Using a cookie scoop, take 1-2 tablespoons of each dough and place them side by side on the sheet. With a toothpick or skewer, gently swirl the two into a marbled effect, being careful not to overmix and losing the beautiful swirls. Step 5: Bake Cookies Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 9-11 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they are done when the tops appear lightly crackled and the edges are set, creating a delightful texture. The centers should remain soft and chewy, ensuring that classic brownie-like fudginess shines through in your Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies. Step 6: Cool Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes. This cooling time helps them set further. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This final step retains their moisture and ensures that each delectable cookie is mouthwateringly perfect. What to Serve with Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies Paired perfectly, these delightful cookies can elevate any gathering or cozy evening at home. Cold Milk: The classic pairing enhances the delicious flavors while adding a refreshing creaminess to every bite. Coffee: A warm cup of coffee complements the richness of the cookies, perfect for a cozy afternoon treat. Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop alongside the cookies for a dreamy dessert experience that balances sweetness and warmth. Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries or raspberries cuts through the richness, providing a refreshing contrast. Chocolate Sauce: An extra drizzle will deepen the chocolate flavor and add an indulgent touch that chocolate lovers will adore. Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spices of chai elevate the flavors while creating a comforting, cozy pairing for those chilly days. Nutty Granola Bars: For a more balanced snack, offer these alongside for a blend of textures and flavors without overshadowing the cookies. Coconut Whipped Cream: This light and airy topping introduces a hint of tropical flavor, enhancing the peanut butter notes in the cookies. Decaf Tea: A soothing cup of herbal or fruit tea pairs beautifully, rounding off your dessert table with calming vibes. Peanut Butter Dip: Take it up a notch by serving a creamy peanut butter dip for added richness and a fun twist! Expert Tips for Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies Chill the Dough: Ensure both doughs are well-chilled for at least 30 minutes. This helps to firm up the dough, making swirling easier and keeping your cookies from spreading too much. Perfect Swirls: Aim for a thicker peanut butter dough to maintain distinct swirls. If the dough is too soft, it can blend together rather than creating a beautiful marbled effect. Uniform Size: Use a cookie scoop for uniform cookie sizes. This ensures even baking and helps your Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies turn out perfectly chewy every time. Visual Cues: Keep an eye on the cookies while baking. They’re ready when the tops are lightly crackled and the edges are set, maintaining a soft and gooey center. Avoid Overmixing: When swirling, mix just enough to combine, but stop before the dough becomes fully integrated. This keeps the marbling intact and enhances the visual appeal of your cookies. Ingredient Substitutions: If making dietary adjustments, ensure substitutes (like flax eggs or gluten-free flour) are suitable for baking to maintain the right texture and flavor in your Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies. Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies Variations Feel free to get creative and personalize these delectable treats to suit your preferences and dietary needs! Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend to maintain the cookie’s texture without wheat. Your gluten-sensitive friends will thank you! Dairy-Free: Substitute all dairy ingredients with vegan alternatives, ensuring everyone can enjoy these cookies guilt-free and deliciously! Vegan: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tbsp water) for a simple yet effective vegan twist. Sugar-Free: Experiment with natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit to lower the sugar content while still keeping the sweetness intact. Nut-Free: If allergies are a concern, swap creamy peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for a safe, delicious alternative. Chocolatey Boost: Increase the chocolate experience by folding in chocolate chips or cocoa nibs into the peanut butter dough. That extra richness is irresistible! Texture Twist: Consider adding crushed nuts to the brownie dough for an unexpected crunch, giving your cookies an exciting texture contrast! Spicy Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the brownie dough for a unique flavor that beautifully complements the chocolate. You might find it’s a daring delight! If you’re in the mood for another delightful dessert, you might want to check out our scrumptious Hot Fudge Brownie or the utterly delicious Chocolate Chip Cookies. Happy baking! How to Store and Freeze Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies Room Temperature: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, ensuring they stay soft and chewy. Fridge: For longer freshness, store the cookies in the refrigerator, where they will last for up to 2 weeks while maintaining their delightful texture. Freezer: Freeze Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying! Reheating: To warm up leftover cookies, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a freshly-baked feel, enhancing the fudgy goodness of each bite. Make Ahead Options These Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to get ahead on your baking! You can prepare both the peanut butter and brownie doughs up to 24 hours in advance. Simply wrap each dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just scoop the chilled dough and swirl it together before baking as directed. For longer storage, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months—just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking. This not only saves you time but ensures you’ll still enjoy the rich, fudgy goodness of these cookies at a moment’s notice! Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies Recipe FAQs What is the best way to select ripe ingredients? Absolutely! For the best Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies, make sure your eggs are fresh and your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming. Your peanut butter should be creamy, and if you’re using fresh peanuts or nuts for a nut butter, ensure they are raw and unsalted for a clean, pure flavor. How should I store these cookies, and how long will they last? After baking, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. To keep them fresher longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking! Can I freeze Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies? Yes, you can freeze these cookies! After they’ve cooled completely, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they’ll keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes or warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to revive their fudginess. What should I do if my cookie dough is too soft? If your cookie dough is too soft and you are having trouble swirling, the best thing to do is chill both doughs for an additional 15-30 minutes in the refrigerator. This will firm them up and make it much easier to scoop and swirl without losing those beautiful marbles. Are there any dietary considerations for pets, allergies, or substitutions? Definitely! If you or someone you are baking for has nut allergies, you can substitute peanut butter with almond butter or sunflower seed butter. For vegan options, be sure to use flax eggs and check that all chocolate and butter substitutes are dairy-free. Always keep an eye on what ingredients are friendly or harmful to pets—chocolate, for example, is toxic to dogs. Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough a day or two in advance! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop and swirl as directed, but allow the dough to sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes if it’s very firm. Enjoy your baking! Irresistible Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies No ratings yet Delight in every fudgy bite of these Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies, a perfect treat for sharing with loved ones. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsChilling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins Servings: 24 cookiesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? Peanut Butter Dough1 cup creamy peanut butter almond butter as a nut-free substitute0.5 cup softened & melted butter dairy-free butter for vegan1 cup brown sugar coconut sugar for refined sugar-free1 large egg or 1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water for vegan1 teaspoon vanilla extract1.5 cups all-purpose flour gluten-free blend as an alternativeBrownie Dough0.5 cup melted butter1 cup white sugar sugar substitutes may work0.5 cup cocoa powder Dutch-process cocoa for milder taste0.5 teaspoon baking soda ensure freshness0.5 teaspoon baking powder ensure freshness0.5 teaspoon salt no substitutes needed0.5 cup chocolate chips dairy-free for vegan option Equipment Mixing BowlwhiskCookie ScoopBaking SheetParchment PaperRefrigerator Method Peanut Butter Dough PreparationIn a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of creamy peanut butter, ½ cup of softened and melted butter, and 1 cup of brown sugar. Beat until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.Add in 1 egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, blending until fully incorporated.Gradually mix in 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and a pinch of salt until just combined.Brownie Dough PreparationIn a separate bowl, whisk together ½ cup of melted butter and 1 cup of white sugar until well combined.Sift in ½ cup of cocoa powder and mix until incorporated.Add in 1 egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, whisking until glossy.Gently fold in ½ cup of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and ½ cup of chocolate chips.Chilling the DoughsCover each bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.Forming CookiesPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.Using a cookie scoop, take 1-2 tablespoons of each dough and place them side by side on the sheet.Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the two into a marbled effect.Baking CookiesBake in the preheated oven for 9-11 minutes until tops are lightly crackled and edges are set.The centers should remain soft and chewy.CoolingAllow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Nutrition Serving: 1cookieCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 3gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 70mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 150IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 0.5mg NotesEnsure both doughs are well-chilled for easier swirling and uniform sizes for even baking. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
