Introduction

Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies combine the rich, fudgy taste of brownies with the creamy goodness of peanut butter in one delightful treat. These cookies feature a beautiful marbled effect and a perfect balance of flavors that will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Round cookies with two layers are shown on light brown parchment paper. The bottom layer is thick, dark brown, and looks soft with a slightly crumbly texture. The top layer swirls with light tan and dark brown colors mixed together in a spiral pattern. The surface of the cookies is cracked slightly, showing a baked texture. The cookies are closely placed on the parchment paper. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

For the Peanut Butter Dough:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Brownie Dough:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder, unsweetened
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Butter Dough. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the peanut butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Brownie Dough. In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Stir in the egg and vanilla extract until well incorporated. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
Step 3: Create the Swirl and Bake. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Take 1 tablespoon of each dough (peanut butter and brownie) and gently press them together. Roll into a ball, being careful not to overmix to maintain the swirl. Place the cookie dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
Step 4: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are set. The centers may still look slightly undercooked. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Variations

Use creamy peanut butter for a smoother dough and better swirl contrast; natural peanut butter may make the dough denser.
Chill the dough balls briefly before baking to help preserve the swirl pattern and prevent spreading.
Add chopped peanuts or chocolate chips to either dough for extra texture and flavor.
Swap cocoa powder for dark cocoa powder to enhance the brownie dough’s chocolate intensity.

Storage

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm in a low oven or microwave briefly to restore softness.

How to Serve

The image shows two peanut butter and chocolate swirl cookies on white parchment paper with one cookie broken in half to reveal a soft inside. Each cookie has two visible layers: a golden brown, smooth peanut butter layer that forms the cookie's base and a dark, rich chocolate layer swirled throughout the top, creating a marbled spiral pattern. The cookies have a slightly crispy edge but look soft and chewy in the center. A woman's hand is gently holding the broken cookie piece on the left side. The background is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, crunchy peanut butter can be used, but it may alter the texture of the dough and swirl. Expect a slightly chunkier cookie with more peanut pieces.

Do these cookies freeze well?

Absolutely! Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies freeze well. Make sure they are completely cooled before freezing and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag.