Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies

A Decadent Fusion of Two Classic Treats

Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies combine the best of two beloved desserts—rich, fudgy brownies and soft, nutty peanut butter cookies. With a beautiful marbled appearance and an irresistible combination of flavors, these cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re indulging in a personal treat or impressing guests at a gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Best of Both Worlds – Enjoy the contrast of chocolatey brownie and creamy peanut butter in one bite.
• Visually Stunning – The swirled effect creates an elegant and appetizing look.
• Soft & Chewy Texture – These cookies are thick, soft, and slightly chewy, making them an absolute delight.
• Simple Ingredients – Most ingredients are pantry staples, making this an easy yet impressive recipe.
• Perfect for Gifting – Their bakery-style appearance makes them a fantastic homemade gift.

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Ingredients

For the Peanut Butter Cookie Dough:

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup creamy peanut butter
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Brownie Dough:

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Butter Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix into the wet ingredients until fully incorporated. Cover and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Brownie Dough

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth.
2. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well.
3. Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir until just combined. The dough will be thick.

Step 3: Swirl the Doughs Together

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Take about 1 tablespoon of peanut butter dough and 1 tablespoon of brownie dough. Gently press them together, then roll into a ball, creating a marbled effect.
3. Slightly flatten each dough ball and place it on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between cookies.

Step 4: Bake & Cool

1. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers still look slightly soft.
2. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

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Variations & Customizations

• Crunchy Peanut Butter – Swap creamy peanut butter for crunchy to add a bit of texture.
• Chocolate Chips – Fold in some chocolate chips or peanut butter chips for extra decadence.
• Nut-Free Alternative – Use a seed butter like sunflower butter for a nut-free version.
• Drizzle Topping – Drizzle melted chocolate or peanut butter over the cookies for an extra touch of elegance.
• Extra Fudge Factor – Add a handful of chopped chocolate or cocoa nibs to the brownie dough for a richer texture.

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Servings & Timing

• Yield: Approximately 18-20 cookies
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Bake Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes

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Storage & Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Refrigeration: Extend freshness by keeping them in the fridge for up to a week.
• Freezing: Freeze baked cookies in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: Microwave for 10-15 seconds for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.

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FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! Both the peanut butter and brownie dough can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before rolling into balls.

Can I use natural peanut butter?

It’s best to use a no-stir, creamy peanut butter for this recipe. Natural peanut butter can be too oily and may affect the texture.

Can I use a brownie mix instead of homemade brownie dough?

Yes! If you’re short on time, you can use boxed brownie mix. Just ensure the dough is thick enough to hold its shape.

Why are my cookies spreading too much?

This may happen if your butter is too soft or if the dough is too warm. Chill the dough for 15-20 minutes before baking if needed.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

How do I achieve the perfect swirl?

Gently press and roll the two doughs together without overmixing to maintain distinct swirls.

Can I make these cookies smaller or larger?

Yes! Adjust the dough portions to your preference. Reduce baking time for smaller cookies and increase slightly for larger ones.

Can I add a peanut butter filling?

For an extra treat, try adding a small peanut butter dollop inside the cookie dough ball before rolling it together.

What’s the best way to keep them soft?

Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread—it helps maintain moisture.

Can I use another nut butter?

Yes! Almond or cashew butter can work, but the flavor and texture will vary slightly.

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Conclusion

Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies are the ultimate indulgence for cookie lovers. With their rich flavors, striking appearance, and soft, chewy texture, they’re a must-try for any dessert enthusiast. Whether you make them for a special occasion or a simple treat, these cookies are sure to impress. Try them today and enjoy the perfect blend of chocolate and peanut butter in every bite!

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