Peanut Butter Brownie Cookies combine the best of two classic desserts into one unforgettable bite. These cookies have the deep, chocolatey richness of a brownie with the nutty, creamy flavor of peanut butter baked right in. Soft in the center, slightly crisp at the edges, and packed with melty chocolate chips, they’re the kind of cookie that disappears fast from the cookie jar.

Perfect for chocolate lovers, peanut butter fans, and anyone craving an indulgent homemade dessert, these cookies are easy enough for weeknight baking but impressive enough for parties, holidays, and bake sales.

Why You’ll Love These Cookies

Rich brownie-style texture with soft, fudgy centers
Bold peanut butter flavor in every bite
One-bowl friendly and easy to make
Perfect for holidays, cookie exchanges, and gifting
Customizable with nuts, chips, or toppings
Crowd-pleasing dessert for all ages

Ingredient Breakdown

Creamy Peanut Butter
Acts as both flavor and fat, giving the cookies moisture, structure, and a strong peanut butter taste.

Brown Sugar
Adds moisture and chew while enhancing the deep chocolate flavor.

Granulated Sugar
Balances the brown sugar and helps create lightly crisp edges.

Eggs
Provide structure and help achieve that glossy, brownie-like texture.

Vanilla Extract
Rounds out the sweetness and enhances both chocolate and peanut butter flavors.

All-Purpose Flour
Keeps the cookies tender while giving just enough structure.

Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
Creates a rich, dark chocolate flavor without extra sweetness.

Baking Soda
Gives a slight lift so the cookies don’t bake up too dense.

Salt
Balances sweetness and intensifies the chocolate flavor.

Chocolate Chips
Add melty pockets of chocolate throughout the cookies.

Chopped Peanuts (Optional)
Provide crunch and extra peanut flavor.

Flaky Sea Salt (Optional)
Adds contrast and elevates the overall flavor.

Texture and Flavor Notes

These cookies bake up with set edges and soft centers that stay fudgy even after cooling. The peanut butter adds creaminess without overpowering the chocolate, making the flavors balanced and bold at the same time.

Baking Tips for Perfect Results

Use room-temperature eggs for a smoother dough.
Do not overmix once the dry ingredients are added to avoid dense cookies.
Slightly underbake for soft, brownie-like centers.
Rotate baking sheets halfway for even baking.
Let cookies cool on the pan briefly to set before transferring.

Easy Variations

Add peanut butter chips for extra nutty flavor.
Use dark chocolate chips for a more intense chocolate taste.
Swap chopped peanuts for chopped pecans or walnuts.
Drizzle baked cookies with melted chocolate for a bakery-style finish.
Make them gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Peanut Butter Brownie Cookies slightly warm with a glass of cold milk or a cup of coffee. They also pair beautifully with vanilla ice cream for an easy dessert. For special occasions, stack them on a dessert tray alongside brownies and classic chocolate chip cookies.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Refrigerate for up to a week if needed. The dough can be scooped and frozen for up to 2 months—bake straight from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the bake time.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These cookies are ideal for holiday cookie trays, after-school treats, bake sales, and casual entertaining. Their rich flavor and soft texture make them a guaranteed favorite wherever they’re served.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use natural peanut butter?
Natural peanut butter can work, but the texture may be softer and oil separation can affect consistency. Stir well before using.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, both the dough and baked cookies store well, making them great for planning ahead.

How do I keep them fudgy?
Slightly underbake and allow them to finish setting as they cool.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. This recipe doubles easily for large batches.