If you’re craving a rich, fudgy, and irresistible peanut butter brownie recipe, you’ve come to the right place! These vegan peanut butter brownies are the perfect blend of chocolatey goodness and creamy peanut butter, made with plant-based ingredients that are both delicious and wholesome.
Unlike traditional brownies, this recipe is dairy-free, egg-free, and refined sugar-free, making it a guilt-free treat for anyone following a plant-based lifestyle. With just a few simple ingredients like cocoa powder, almond flour, maple syrup, and dark chocolate, you can whip up a batch in just 30 minutes.
Whether you’re looking for an easy homemade brownie recipe, a gluten-free dessert option, or simply a way to satisfy your sweet tooth with healthy, plant-based ingredients, these fudgy peanut butter brownies will not disappoint. And if you’re interested in incorporating even more healthy plant-based habits into your routine, check out our Vegan Apple-Cider Vinegar Drink: 5 Health Benefits to help balance your diet while enjoying your sweet treats. Follow along as we break down the 5 easy steps to making the best vegan brownies you’ll ever try!
Why You’ll Love This Vegan Peanut Butter Brownie Recipe
If you’re looking for the ultimate peanut butter brownie recipe, this plant-based version will become your new go-to treat! These vegan peanut butter brownies are not only rich and chocolatey but also incredibly easy to make. Here’s why you’ll love them:
Fudgy & Delicious – The Perfect Balance of Chocolate and Peanut Butter
Nothing beats the indulgent combination of chocolate and peanut butter, and this peanut butter brownie recipe delivers that perfect balance in every bite. The cocoa powder and dark chocolate create a deep, rich chocolate flavor, while the creamy peanut butter adds a smooth, nutty richness. The result? Fudgy, moist, and ultra-satisfying brownies that melt in your mouth. Whether you love gooey brownies or slightly chewy ones, this recipe has the perfect texture without needing dairy or eggs.
Easy & Quick – Just 5 Steps and Ready in 30 Minutes
No need to spend hours in the kitchen—this vegan peanut butter brownie recipe comes together in just 5 simple steps and is ready in under 30 minutes. With minimal prep time and basic plant-based ingredients, this is the ideal quick dessert recipe for busy days, last-minute guests, or a spontaneous chocolate craving. Plus, there’s no need for a mixer or fancy equipment—just a bowl, a whisk, and a baking pan!
Healthy & Plant-Based – Made with Wholesome Ingredients
Unlike traditional brownies that rely on butter, eggs, and processed sugar, this vegan peanut butter brownie recipe uses healthy, plant-based ingredients without compromising on taste. Instead of refined sugar, we use maple syrup, which adds natural sweetness while keeping the brownies moist. Almond flour provides a nutritious, gluten-free alternative to regular flour, and dark chocolate gives that decadent richness while being dairy-free. These brownies prove that you don’t need animal products to enjoy a classic dessert!
Allergy-Friendly Options – Gluten-Free & Refined Sugar-Free
If you have dietary restrictions, this peanut butter brownie recipe is incredibly adaptable. Want a gluten-free version? Simply use almond flour or gluten-free oat flour. Need a refined sugar-free option? Swap maple syrup for coconut sugar or another natural sweetener. These brownies can also be made nut-free by using sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter. No matter your dietary needs, you can still enjoy these delicious, fudgy plant-based brownies!
Essential Ingredients for Peanut Butter Brownies
To make the perfect peanut butter brownie recipe, using the right ingredients is key. Each component plays a crucial role in creating that fudgy, rich, and indulgent texture while keeping it 100% plant-based. Let’s break down the essential ingredients that make these vegan peanut butter brownies absolutely irresistible.
Peanut Butter – Creamy and Unsweetened for the Best Flavor
The star of this peanut butter brownie recipe is, of course, peanut butter! Using a creamy, unsweetened peanut butter ensures a smooth, nutty flavor without unnecessary added sugars or oils. The natural richness of peanut butter enhances the texture, making the brownies extra moist and chewy. For the best results, opt for a natural peanut butter made with just peanuts and a pinch of salt—this will blend perfectly with the chocolatey goodness of the brownies.
Cocoa Powder & Dark Chocolate – For a Rich, Chocolatey Taste
What’s a peanut butter brownie recipe without a deep, chocolatey base? Cocoa powder and dark chocolate work together to create that bold, intense chocolate flavor that every brownie lover craves. Unsweetened cocoa powder adds a rich depth, while dairy-free dark chocolate melts into the batter for an extra layer of indulgence. To keep it 100% plant-based, use a vegan dark chocolate that’s free from dairy and unnecessary additives. The combination of peanut butter and dark chocolate is a match made in dessert heaven!
Almond Flour & Baking Soda – For a Light, Yet Fudgy Texture
Instead of traditional white flour, this peanut butter brownie recipe uses almond flour, which keeps the brownies naturally gluten-free while adding a subtle nutty flavor. Almond flour also helps maintain a soft, chewy texture, making the brownies extra moist and tender. To ensure the right balance, a small amount of baking soda is added to help the brownies rise slightly, preventing them from becoming too dense. The result? A perfectly balanced brownie that’s not too cakey and not too gooey—just the right amount of fudginess!
If you prefer a gluten-free dessert option, make sure to check out our Best Gluten-Free Sugar Cookie Recipe, which is another delicious treat that’s perfect for those following a gluten-free lifestyle.
Maple Syrup & Plant-Based Milk – For Natural Sweetness and Moisture
Instead of using refined sugar, this peanut butter brownie recipe is naturally sweetened with maple syrup, which adds a mild caramel-like flavor while keeping the brownies soft and moist. Maple syrup not only enhances the taste but also makes these brownies a healthier, plant-based alternative to traditional recipes.
To ensure the perfect consistency, plant-based milk—such as almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk—is added to the batter. This helps blend the ingredients smoothly, ensuring that every bite of these vegan peanut butter brownies is moist, rich, and flavorful.
By using these simple, wholesome ingredients, you can create a delicious and indulgent peanut butter brownie recipe that’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and naturally sweetened. Whether you’re a longtime vegan or just looking for a healthier brownie alternative, these plant-based peanut butter brownies will satisfy your sweet cravings without compromise!
How to Make Vegan Peanut Butter Brownies (Step-by-Step)
Making the perfect peanut butter brownie recipe is easier than you think! With just a few simple steps, you’ll have fudgy, rich, and plant-based brownies that are absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and requires no complicated techniques. Follow these five easy steps to create the best vegan peanut butter brownies in no time!
1. Preheat & Prep – Set the Oven Temperature and Line a Baking Pan
Before you start mixing ingredients, it’s important to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking and gives your vegan peanut butter brownies the perfect gooey, fudgy texture.
Next, line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with a bit of coconut oil. This prevents the brownies from sticking and makes them easier to remove once baked. If you prefer thicker brownies, you can use a slightly smaller pan, but for the perfect balance of chewiness and fudginess, an 8×8-inch pan works best.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients – Combine Peanut Butter, Maple Syrup, and Plant Milk
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- ½ cup of creamy peanut butter (unsweetened and natural for the best texture)
- ½ cup of maple syrup (for natural sweetness and moisture)
- ¼ cup of plant-based milk (such as almond, oat, or soy milk)
Stir until the mixture becomes smooth and well combined. The peanut butter acts as a natural binding agent, replacing the need for eggs while keeping the brownies soft and rich. The maple syrup not only adds a hint of caramel-like sweetness but also helps create that perfectly moist brownie texture.
3. Add Dry Ingredients – Stir in Cocoa Powder, Almond Flour, and Baking Soda
Once the wet ingredients are mixed, it’s time to add the dry ingredients:
- ½ cup of cocoa powder (for deep, rich chocolate flavor)
- ¾ cup of almond flour (for a gluten-free, soft texture)
- ½ teaspoon of baking soda (to create a slight rise and balance the texture)
Slowly fold these ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula or whisk. Be sure to mix gently—overmixing can lead to dense brownies. The batter should be thick but spreadable. If it feels too dry, you can add an extra tablespoon of plant-based milk to reach the desired consistency.
For an extra chocolatey boost, consider folding in ¼ cup of vegan dark chocolate chips before baking!
4. Bake to Perfection – Pour into a Pan and Bake Until Fudgy
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Use a spatula to smooth the top for an even bake.
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 22-25 minutes. The key to achieving that perfect fudgy texture is to remove the brownies from the oven when the center still looks slightly underbaked. They will continue to set as they cool. If you prefer a firmer texture, bake for a few extra minutes, but be careful not to overbake—vegan brownies can dry out if left in the oven too long.
5. Cool & Serve – Let It Cool Before Slicing into Gooey Brownies
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the brownies cool for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing. This allows them to firm up while staying moist and fudgy inside. If you cut them too soon, they may fall apart—so patience is key!
For the best texture, you can even chill them in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving. This enhances the rich chocolate flavor and makes the brownies extra dense and chewy.
Finally, slice into squares and enjoy your vegan peanut butter brownies! For an extra indulgence, drizzle with melted dark chocolate or top with a sprinkle of sea salt for a gourmet touch.
By following these five easy steps, you’ll have a deliciously rich, fudgy, and plant-based peanut butter brownie recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them as an afternoon treat, a post-dinner dessert, or a grab-and-go snack, these vegan brownies will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!
For a great alternative, check out our Best Protein Cookie Recipe for a Quick Energy Boost, which is another delicious option to fuel your day with plant-based energy!
Tips for the Best Dairy-Free Brownies
Making the perfect peanut butter brownie recipe is all about getting the right texture, flavor, and richness. Whether you like your brownies extra fudgy or slightly chewy, a few simple tricks can take them to the next level. Here are some expert tips to ensure your vegan peanut butter brownies turn out perfectly moist, chocolatey, and dairy-free every time.
1. Use Natural Peanut Butter – No Added Sugar or Oils for the Best Texture
For the richest and creamiest peanut butter brownie recipe, always use natural peanut butter with no added sugar, palm oil, or preservatives. The best peanut butter should contain just peanuts and a pinch of salt—this ensures a pure, nutty flavor that enhances the brownies without making them overly sweet or greasy.
Commercial peanut butters with added oils or sugar can alter the texture, making the batter too runny or overly thick. If your natural peanut butter has separated, give it a good stir before using it to ensure a smooth consistency. Unsweetened peanut butter also pairs perfectly with vegan dark chocolate, creating that classic chocolate-peanut butter combo that everyone loves!
2. Don’t Overbake – Check at 20-25 Minutes for a Fudgy Center
One of the biggest mistakes when making brownies is overbaking them. Unlike traditional brownies made with eggs and butter, these vegan peanut butter brownies rely on plant-based ingredients that can dry out if baked too long.
For that perfect fudgy texture, check your brownies at 20-25 minutes. The edges should look set, but the center should still be slightly soft—this means they’ll firm up as they cool while staying moist and gooey inside. If you prefer a more chewy brownie, let them bake for an extra 2-3 minutes, but be careful not to overdo it!
A simple trick? Insert a toothpick in the center—if it comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter), your brownies are done!
3. For Extra Richness – Add Vegan Chocolate Chips or a Drizzle of Melted Dark Chocolate
Want to take your peanut butter brownie recipe to the next level? Try adding vegan chocolate chips to the batter for extra gooeyness in every bite. The chocolate melts into the brownies, making them even more decadent and indulgent.
For an elegant finishing touch, drizzle melted vegan dark chocolate over the cooled brownies. This not only enhances the chocolate flavor but also gives the brownies a beautiful, bakery-style appearance. If you love a sweet-salty contrast, sprinkle a bit of sea salt on top for a gourmet twist!
4. Storage Tips – Keep in an Airtight Container for Up to 5 Days
To keep your vegan peanut butter brownies fresh and delicious, proper storage is key. Here’s how to store them:
- Room Temperature: Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and fudgy.
- Refrigerator: For longer freshness, keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days. They may firm up slightly, but they’ll still be deliciously chewy.
- Freezer: Want to save some for later? Wrap individual brownie squares in parchment paper and store them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll last for up to 3 months—just thaw for a few minutes before enjoying!
For the best taste, let refrigerated or frozen brownies come to room temperature or warm them slightly before serving. This brings back that freshly baked fudginess!
If you’re looking for more wholesome and plant-based recipes, check out our High-Protein Crock Pot Recipes for easy meal ideas that are both delicious and nutritious!
By following these tips, you’ll create a flawless peanut butter brownie recipe that’s rich, fudgy, and completely dairy-free. Whether you enjoy them warm with a scoop of vegan ice cream or as an afternoon snack, these brownies will quickly become a household favorite!
FAQs About Vegan Peanut Butter Brownies
If you’re making this peanut butter brownie recipe for the first time, you might have a few questions about ingredient swaps, texture adjustments, and dietary modifications. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions to help you make the perfect batch of vegan peanut butter brownies every time!
Can I Make This Peanut Butter Brownie Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! This peanut butter brownie recipe is already gluten-free when using almond flour, but if you don’t have almond flour or prefer an alternative, you can substitute gluten-free oat flour instead.
- Oat flour gives the brownies a slightly firmer texture while still keeping them moist and chewy.
- If making your own oat flour, simply blend certified gluten-free oats into a fine powder.
- Since oat flour absorbs more moisture than almond flour, you may need to add an extra splash of plant-based milk to keep the batter smooth.
No matter which option you choose, your gluten-free peanut butter brownies will still turn out rich, fudgy, and absolutely delicious!
What’s the Best Substitute for Peanut Butter?
If you have a peanut allergy or simply prefer a different nut butter, you can easily swap out peanut butter in this peanut butter brownie recipe for other alternatives, such as:
- Almond butter – A great substitute with a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
- Cashew butter – Ultra-creamy and buttery, giving the brownies a rich texture.
- Sunflower seed butter – A nut-free alternative that works well for those with allergies.
Make sure to use natural, unsweetened versions of these butters for the best results. Keep in mind that different nut or seed butters may slightly alter the flavor, but they will still create deliciously fudgy vegan brownies!
Can I Use Coconut Sugar Instead of Maple Syrup?
Yes, you can swap maple syrup for coconut sugar in this peanut butter brownie recipe, but there are a couple of things to keep in mind:
- Maple syrup is a liquid sweetener, while coconut sugar is dry.
- If using coconut sugar, you may need to add an extra tablespoon of plant-based milk to maintain the right consistency.
- Coconut sugar gives the brownies a deeper caramel-like flavor and helps keep them soft.
Both options work well, so feel free to use whichever sweetener you prefer!
How Do I Make These Brownies More Cakey?
If you prefer your vegan peanut butter brownies to be more cakey rather than fudgy, here’s what you can do:
- Increase the baking soda – Add an extra ¼ teaspoon to help the batter rise more.
- Add more plant-based milk – A few extra tablespoons will create a lighter, fluffier texture.
- Whisk the batter well – This incorporates more air, leading to a softer brownie.
However, if you love that classic fudgy texture, stick with the original recipe for rich, melt-in-your-mouth brownies.
These FAQs cover some of the most common questions about this peanut butter brownie recipe, helping you customize it to your taste and dietary needs. Whether you want a gluten-free, nut-free, or extra chocolatey version, this vegan brownie recipe is super flexible and easy to adjust.
Conclusion
This peanut butter brownie recipe is the ultimate treat for chocolate and peanut butter lovers. With its fudgy texture, rich chocolate flavor, and naturally sweetened ingredients, it’s a dessert that you can enjoy guilt-free. Plus, it’s 100% vegan, dairy-free, and easily made gluten-free, making it perfect for anyone following a plant-based lifestyle.
Not only is this recipe quick and easy to make in just five simple steps, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with extra chocolate chips, a drizzle of dark chocolate, or a sprinkle of sea salt to make it even more indulgent. And if you love experimenting, try using almond butter or cashew butter for a different twist on the classic peanut butter flavor.
I hope you love these vegan peanut butter brownies as much as I do! If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear your thoughts—leave a comment below and let me know how they turned out. Also, don’t forget to share this recipe with friends, pin it on Pinterest, or tag me in your baking photos!
If you’re looking for more plant-based desserts, be sure to check out my other recipes, like the Vegan Mulled Apple Cider Recipe, Vegan Green Bean Casserole Recipe, vegan chocolate chip cookie bars, dairy-free banana bread, and no-bake peanut butter energy balls. There’s always something delicious to try!
For more convenient kitchen tools and ingredients, be sure to check out these Amazon favorites:
- Vegan Baking Supplies – Perfect for all your plant-based baking needs.
- Almond Butter – A delicious and creamy alternative to peanut butter in your recipes.
Now, it’s time to grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and whip up a batch of these rich, fudgy vegan peanut butter brownies. Enjoy every bite!