Vegan Peanut Butter Brownies

These vegan peanut butter chocolate brownies are the perfect blend of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter swirls, creating a decadent dessert that everyone will love. Moist and fudgy with a hint of sweetness from maple syrup, this recipe brings a delightful twist to classic brownies without any dairy or eggs.

I first made these brownies for a casual get-together and was amazed by how quickly they disappeared. Now they’re my go-to treat when I want to impress without the fuss.

Ingredients You Need

• All-purpose flour: provides structure and softness—use fresh flour for best results
• Cocoa powder: delivers that deep chocolaty richness; opt for unsweetened natural cocoa for authentic flavor
• Granulated sugar and brown sugar: work together to add sweetness and slight caramel notes
• Baking powder: helps give a gentle lift, ensuring the brownies are cakey yet dense
• Salt: enhances the overall flavor profile so do not skip it
• Melted coconut oil: adds moisture and richness with a subtle tropical hint
• Plant-based milk: keeps the recipe vegan while creating a nice batter consistency
• Vanilla extract: brings warmth and rounds out the taste beautifully
• Creamy peanut butter: is essential for the luscious swirl; choose freshly stirred natural peanut butter for the best texture
• Maple syrup: sweetens the peanut butter swirl naturally and adds depth

Detailed Cooking Directions

Build The Dry Mix:

Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined. This step ensures your dry ingredients are well distributed for consistent flavor.

Incorporate The Wet Ingredients:

Slowly add the melted coconut oil, plant-based milk, and vanilla extract to the dry mix. Stir gently just until combined to keep the batter light but fully mixed. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender crumb.

Prepare The Pan And Batter:

Line your 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Pour the batter evenly into the pan, spreading it smooth with a spatula to create a uniform layer.

Mix And Swirl The Peanut Butter Topping:

Combine creamy peanut butter and maple syrup in a small bowl until smooth. Drop spoonfuls of this mixture over the batter and use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the peanut butter through, creating beautiful marbled patterns.

Bake Until Set:

Place the pan in your preheated oven at 350°F or 175°C and bake for 28 to 30 minutes. The brownies should be just set but still moist; a toothpick inserted in the center may come out with a few crumbs.

Cool Thoroughly Before Cutting:

Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. This resting time helps them firm up for clean cutting and enhances the fudgy texture you want in each bite.

The peanut butter swirl adds both visual appeal and a nutty counterpoint to rich chocolate. I love using natural peanut butter that has been stirred to a creamy consistency—it blends beautifully and creates that classic swirl. The first time I made these, the marbled look amazed my family, and it made the brownies feel extra special even though the recipe is straightforward.

Smart Storage Tips

Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain freshness and texture. For longer storage, refrigerate up to five days or freeze individually wrapped squares for up to three months. Bring chilled or frozen brownies to room temperature or warm gently before serving to restore their fudgy softness.

Ingredient Variations

Swap coconut oil for vegan butter or light olive oil for a different richness profile. Use almond or oat milk as alternatives to plant-based milk to subtly change flavor. Try crunchy peanut butter for extra texture in the swirls or swap in almond butter for a nutty twist.

Perfect Pairing Ideas

Serve these brownies with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream or coconut whipped cream for a luscious dessert experience. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or rich black tea beautifully complements their chocolatey depth. Add fresh berries on the side for a hint of tartness to balance the sweetness.

These vegan peanut butter chocolate brownies have become a beloved staple for me, combining ease and indulgence in each bite. Whether you’re baking for friends or simply treating yourself, they deliver both comfort and delight every time.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of flour is best for these brownies?

All-purpose flour works well to create a balanced texture with a slightly chewy crumb.

→ Can I substitute plant-based milk with dairy milk?

Yes, using dairy milk will maintain moisture and complement the cocoa flavor effectively.

→ How does the peanut butter swirl affect the texture?

The swirl adds creamy pockets that contrast nicely with the dense, fudgy brownie base.

→ Is coconut oil preferred over other fats?

Coconut oil contributes subtle flavor and tenderness while keeping the brownies moist.

→ How can I tell when the brownies are done baking?

Bake until the edges appear set and a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.