Short Description
These Peanut Butter Brownie Cups blend rich, fudgy chocolate with creamy peanut butter in a perfectly portioned dessert. Baked in muffin tins, each cup is a decadent treat with a soft center, swirled peanut butter, and melty chocolate chips.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect flavor combo: Classic peanut butter and chocolate in every bite.
Individual servings: Great for portion control, sharing, or packing into lunchboxes.
No special tools needed: Just a muffin tin and basic ingredients.
Rich and satisfying: Fudgy brownies meet nutty sweetness for the ultimate indulgence.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

½ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup all-purpose flour
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon baking powder
½ cup creamy peanut butter
¼ cup powdered sugar
½ cup chocolate chips

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a standard 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth.
Add the eggs and vanilla extract, whisking until fully incorporated.
Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Stir just until the batter is combined—do not overmix.
Fill each muffin liner about two-thirds full with the brownie batter.
In a separate bowl, stir together the peanut butter and powdered sugar until smooth.
Drop a small spoonful of the peanut butter mixture into the center of each brownie cup. Use a toothpick to gently swirl it into the brownie batter.
Sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over the tops.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the brownie (avoiding the peanut butter center) comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Let the brownie cups cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 brownie cups
Prep time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 20–25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Calories: Approx. 210 kcal per cup

Variations

Crunchy twist: Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
Nut-free option: Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or almond butter.
Extra gooey: Add a small square of chocolate or peanut butter cup in the center for a molten surprise.
Frosted finish: Once cooled, top with a swirl of peanut butter frosting for a bakery-style treat.
Mini version: Bake in a mini muffin tin for bite-sized brownie cups—reduce bake time to 12–14 minutes.

storage/reheating

To store: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
To freeze: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature.
To reheat: Microwave for 10–15 seconds to warm and soften the chocolate chips.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter in this recipe?

Yes, but it should be stirred well to incorporate the oil; texture may be slightly looser than standard peanut butter.

How do I know when the brownie cups are done?

The edges should be firm and a toothpick inserted near the edge (not through the peanut butter) should come out with a few moist crumbs.

Can I use muffin tins without liners?

Yes—just be sure to grease the tins thoroughly with butter or nonstick spray.

Why is my brownie center too gooey?

This is often due to underbaking or the peanut butter layer being too thick. Check for doneness near the edges, not directly in the center.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely—double all ingredients and bake in two muffin tins, or bake in batches.

What’s the best cocoa powder to use?

Unsweetened natural cocoa powder is ideal; Dutch-processed cocoa may alter the flavor and rise slightly.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes—substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Are these suitable for freezing?

Yes—cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to a month. Thaw before serving.

Do I need an electric mixer?

No—this recipe is easily mixed by hand with a whisk and spoon.

Can I omit the chocolate chips?

Yes—though they add a nice texture and richness, the cups are still delicious without them.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Brownie Cups are the perfect fusion of two beloved flavors in an easy-to-make, irresistible format. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or indulging yourself, these rich, fudgy treats with a creamy peanut butter swirl deliver every time. Enjoy them warm, chilled, or straight from the freezer!