If you’ve ever debated between baking brownies or cookies, this recipe gives you the best of both worlds. These Swirled Brownie Cookies with a Peanut Butter Twist combine the fudgy richness of brownies, the chewy edges of cookies, and a nutty swirl of creamy peanut butter for a dessert that’s indulgent, gooey, and irresistibly decadent.
Perfect for parties, bake sales, or simply satisfying a late-night craving, these cookies are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.
Ingredients
Makes about 20 cookies
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
- 8 ounces (225g) semisweet chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter (slightly warmed for swirling)
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Chill time: 30 minutes
- Baking time: 12–14 minutes
- Total time: About 1 hour
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Melt the Chocolate Base
- In a heatproof bowl, melt the butter and semisweet chocolate together over a double boiler or in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Mix the Sugars and Eggs
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.
- Slowly fold in the melted chocolate mixture.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
- Sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 4: Swirl in Peanut Butter
- Chill the dough for about 30 minutes to firm up.
- Using a spoon or cookie scoop, place dollops of dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Swirl about 1 teaspoon of warmed peanut butter into each cookie dough ball using a toothpick or knife.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–14 minutes, until cookies are set around the edges but soft in the center.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a glass of cold milk for a classic treat.
- Sandwich a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two cookies for a gourmet ice cream sandwich.
- Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top before baking for a sweet-salty contrast.
- Serve warm for maximum gooeyness.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Cookie (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 |
| Protein | 3 grams |
| Total Fat | 11 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 6 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 26 grams |
| Sugars | 18 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sodium | 85 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Peanut butter provides healthy fats and a boost of protein.
- Cocoa and dark chocolate add antioxidants.
- These cookies are indulgent, so enjoy in moderation or try reducing sugar for a lighter version.
Tips for Perfect Swirled Cookies
- Use natural peanut butter for a richer nutty flavor.
- Don’t skip the chill step—this keeps the cookies thick and chewy.
- For extra decadence, add chocolate chips or chopped peanuts into the dough.
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
These Swirled Brownie Cookies with a Peanut Butter Twist are the ultimate treat for chocolate and peanut butter lovers. With a chewy, fudgy center and a nutty swirl that looks as good as it tastes, they’re the perfect dessert to share—or keep all to yourself.