Rich, ultra-chocolatey brownies with decadent peanut butter swirls—these flourless treats melt in your mouth and are naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and totally addictive. Perfect for those seeking a healthier indulgence without sacrificing flavor, these brownies are simple to prepare and packed with satisfying ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Fudgy Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies are everything you want in a dessert—moist, rich, and full of deep chocolate flavor balanced by creamy peanut butter swirls. They’re made with wholesome ingredients, require no flour, and are naturally gluten-free and dairy-free. Ideal for health-conscious eaters, vegans, or anyone looking for a clean-eating dessert that doesn’t compromise on taste. Plus, the simple prep makes this a reliable go-to treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
- cocoa powder
- maple syrup or agave
- applesauce
- salt
- baking soda
- pure vanilla extract
- oat flour
- melted coconut oil or vegetable oil
- nondairy milk (or milk of choice)
- mini chocolate chips (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a medium bowl, combine peanut butter, cocoa powder, maple syrup, applesauce, salt, baking soda, and vanilla. Stir until smooth.
- Add in oat flour, melted oil, and milk. Mix well until the batter is fully incorporated. Fold in chocolate chips if using.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- Drop small spoonfuls of peanut butter on top of the batter. Use a knife or toothpick to swirl gently, creating a marbled effect.
- Bake for 20–22 minutes or until the center is just set. Avoid overbaking for a fudgier texture.
- Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing to achieve clean edges.
Servings and timing
Servings: 9 brownies
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 22 minutes
Total Time: 32 minutes
Calories per Serving: 165 kcal
Variations
- Nut-free version: Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.
- Extra protein: Add a scoop of chocolate or vanilla protein powder and reduce the oat flour slightly.
- Chocolate lovers: Stir in extra chocolate chips or a layer of chocolate ganache on top.
- Crunchy topping: Sprinkle chopped peanuts or walnuts over the batter before baking.
- Spiced twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of chili powder for a warming flavor.
- Sweetener options: Use honey if not strictly vegan.
Storage/Reheating
Store these brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 1 week. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months. To serve, allow to thaw at room temperature or warm gently in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds for a just-baked texture.
FAQs
How do I make these brownies extra fudgy?
Avoid overbaking and let them cool completely in the pan. For an even fudgier texture, refrigerate them for a few hours before slicing.
Can I use almond flour instead of oat flour?
Yes, almond flour can be used, but the texture may be slightly more crumbly and rich.
Are these brownies suitable for vegans?
Yes, this recipe is 100% vegan as long as you use nondairy milk and vegan chocolate chips.
Can I use a different nut butter?
Absolutely. Almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter work well as substitutes.
Is it possible to reduce the sugar content?
Yes, you can slightly reduce the maple syrup or agave, but it may affect moisture and sweetness.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, simply double all ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Adjust the baking time by an additional 5–10 minutes.
What kind of cocoa powder should I use?
Unsweetened natural cocoa powder works best. Avoid Dutch-processed as it may alter the rise and flavor.
How do I know when the brownies are done?
The center should be just set and not overly jiggly. A toothpick inserted should come out with moist crumbs, not raw batter.
Can I make these brownies oil-free?
You may try replacing the oil with extra applesauce, though the texture will be slightly softer and less rich.
How should I store them if I want to make them ahead?
Make the brownies, cool them completely, then store in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate/freeze as needed.
Conclusion
These Fudgy Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies are a delightful fusion of health-conscious ingredients and indulgent flavor. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or simply a brownie lover looking for a more wholesome option, this recipe will not disappoint. Quick to make and irresistibly fudgy, they’re sure to become a staple in your dessert rotation.
PrintFudgy Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies
Rich, ultra-chocolatey flourless brownies with decadent peanut butter swirls. These naturally gluten-free and dairy-free treats are fudgy, indulgent, and perfect for chocolate lovers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 9 brownies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or agave
- 1/4 cup applesauce
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup oat flour
- 2 tbsp melted coconut oil or vegetable oil
- 2 tbsp nondairy milk (or milk of choice)
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper or lightly grease.
- In a medium bowl, stir together the peanut butter, cocoa powder, maple syrup, applesauce, salt, baking soda, and vanilla until smooth.
- Add oat flour, oil, and milk. Mix until well combined, then fold in chocolate chips if using.
- Spread the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing out the top evenly with a spatula.
- Drop spoonfuls of peanut butter over the top and gently swirl with a knife or toothpick for a marbled effect.
- Bake for 20–22 minutes or until the center is just set. Do not overbake for fudgier results.
- Let cool completely in the pan before slicing for clean edges.
Notes
- Use natural peanut butter for best swirl texture.
- Do not overbake to maintain fudginess.
- Let cool fully before slicing for clean edges.
- Can be stored in the refrigerator for longer shelf life.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 165
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg