Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies Recipe
Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies are the ultimate treat for anyone who loves the glorious pairing of chocolate and peanut butter. These cookies combine the best of both worlds: a soft, chewy peanut butter base with irresistible swirls of rich, fudgy brownie running through every bite. Whether you’re baking for a party, a cozy night in, or just to satisfy a sweet craving, these showstopper cookies are always a hit. Get ready for the kind of cookie that disappears from the plate in record time!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of these Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies is how a handful of pantry staples can create such a decadent, bakery-worthy treat. Each ingredient plays a starring role in delivering that perfect texture and bold flavor contrast—don’t skip or substitute if you can help it!
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Lends richness and moisture, creating a tender crumb in both the peanut butter dough and the brownie swirl.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Brings sweetness and helps the cookies spread just right.
- Brown sugar, packed (1/2 cup): Adds deep caramel notes and chewiness to the cookie base.
- Creamy peanut butter (1/2 cup): The star ingredient for that nutty, melt-in-your-mouth flavor.
- Large egg (1): Binds everything together and gives structure to the dough.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor and rounds out the sweetness.
- All-purpose flour (1 1/4 cups for cookies + 1/4 cup for brownie swirl): Provides the structure and soft, thick bite we all love in homemade cookies.
- Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Helps the cookies rise and stay tender.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and sharpens the flavors.
- Semisweet chocolate chips (1/2 cup): The base for the fudge-like brownie swirl, giving a deep chocolate punch.
- Butter for brownie swirl (2 tablespoons): Makes the brownie batter luscious and rich.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (2 tablespoons): Intensifies the chocolate flavor in the swirl.
- Powdered sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens the brownie batter and creates a smooth texture.
- Egg yolk (1, for brownie swirl): Adds richness and helps bind the swirl batter.
How to Make Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheets
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining two baking sheets with parchment paper. This simple step ensures your Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies won’t stick and will bake up with perfectly golden bottoms.
Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Cookie Dough
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and creamy peanut butter until the mixture looks light and fluffy—about 2–3 minutes. This aerates the dough and sets the stage for chewy cookies. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing just until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
Step 3: Prepare the Brownie Swirl Batter
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semisweet chocolate chips and 2 tablespoons butter together in 20-second bursts, stirring each time, until smooth and glossy. Stir in the cocoa powder and powdered sugar until well mixed. Add the egg yolk, then fold in the flour until you have a thick, fudgy brownie batter. This is where the magic of Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies begins!
Step 4: Combine and Shape the Cookies
Take about 1 tablespoon of the peanut butter dough and flatten it slightly in your hand. Add roughly 1/2 teaspoon of brownie batter on top, then fold the peanut butter dough around the brownie center. Roll gently into a ball, then give it a quick twist with your fingers for that signature swirl. For an extra visual wow factor, you can dab a little more brownie batter on top of each ball and swirl it in lightly.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the cookie balls 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheets. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers still look a little soft—this is what keeps them perfectly chewy. Let the cookies cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to finish cooling. Prepare for your kitchen to smell absolutely irresistible!
How to Serve Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies
Garnishes
For a bakery-style finish, try sprinkling the warm cookies with a touch of flaky sea salt or a dusting of powdered sugar. If you’re feeling fancy, drizzle with melted chocolate or a few mini chocolate chips for extra flair. The contrast of sweet and salty really takes these Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies over the top.
Side Dishes
It’s hard to beat a cold glass of milk alongside these cookies, but they’re also wonderful paired with hot coffee or a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a playful dessert platter, serve with fresh strawberries or banana slices to echo the classic flavors of peanut butter and chocolate.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack the cookies in a tall glass jar tied with a ribbon for a homemade gift, or arrange them on a pretty cake stand for a showstopping dessert table centerpiece. You can also sandwich a scoop of ice cream between two cookies for decadent ice cream sandwiches—Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookie style!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store cooled Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Place a slice of bread in the container with the cookies to help keep them extra soft and chewy—just replace the bread as it dries out.
Freezing
Both the unbaked dough balls and baked cookies freeze beautifully. To freeze dough, shape and swirl as directed, then freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen, just adding a minute or two to the bake time. Baked cookies can be frozen in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
For that fresh-from-the-oven experience, pop a cookie or two in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. The chocolate and peanut butter will soften just enough to taste like they were just baked. They’re also delicious warmed in a low oven for a few minutes.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a nutty texture and extra peanut flavor to your Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies. Just be aware that the dough might be a bit more crumbly, so press the balls together firmly when shaping.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the regular flour. Make sure your blend contains xanthan gum for best results, and double-check that your cocoa powder and chocolate chips are certified gluten-free.
How do I get the swirls to look really defined?
For bold, bakery-style swirls, press a little extra brownie batter on top of each cookie ball before baking, then use a toothpick or knife to gently swirl it into the peanut butter dough. This will give your Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies a dramatic, marbled appearance.
Can I double this recipe?
Definitely! This recipe scales up beautifully. Simply double all the ingredients and bake in batches, making sure not to overcrowd your cookie sheets so every cookie gets those perfect swirled tops.
Are these cookies good for gifting?
They’re fantastic for sharing! The eye-catching swirls and irresistible flavor make Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies a favorite in holiday boxes, bake sales, or as a thoughtful homemade present. Wrap them in parchment or cellophane for a cute, personal touch.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a cookie that combines two classic flavors with a stunning presentation, you absolutely have to try Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies. They’re fun to make, even more fun to eat, and sure to become a go-to favorite for any occasion. Gather your ingredients and get swirling—you’re in for a real treat!
Print
Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 37 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in the perfect blend of rich peanut butter cookie dough swirled with decadent brownie batter. These Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies offer a chewy texture and two-tone chocolate-peanut butter flavor that’s ideal for dessert or an indulgent snack.
Ingredients
Peanut Butter Cookie Dough
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Brownie Swirl
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Make the peanut butter cookie dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and creamy peanut butter until the mixture is light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt, then gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft, cohesive dough forms.
- Make the brownie swirl: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semisweet chocolate chips and butter in 20-second increments, stirring after each interval until smooth. Stir in the unsweetened cocoa powder and powdered sugar, then mix in the egg yolk. Finally, fold in the flour until a thick brownie batter consistency is achieved.
- Combine and shape: Portion about 1 tablespoon of peanut butter dough and flatten it slightly in your hand. Place 1/2 teaspoon of brownie batter in the center, then fold the peanut butter dough around it and roll into a ball. Give each ball a gentle swirl by twisting it lightly between your fingers to create a marbled effect. Repeat this process with the remaining dough and batter.
- Bake: Arrange the cookie balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets to allow spreading. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers remain slightly soft for a chewy texture.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from breaking apart.
Notes
- For a more pronounced swirl effect, lightly press extra brownie batter on top of each cookie before baking.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to retain freshness and chewiness.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
