If you love the combination of rich, fudgy chocolate and creamy peanut butter, these Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownie Bars are about to become your new favorite dessert! Each bite is packed with deep chocolate flavor, a smooth peanut butter layer, and a silky ganache topping that melts in your mouth.
I can’t wait for you to try this recipe—it’s one of those indulgent desserts that always impresses, whether you’re making it for a casual get-together or a special occasion. And the best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make!
Why You’ll Love These Brownie Bars
- The ultimate flavor combo – Chocolate and peanut butter are a match made in heaven!
- Layers of texture – A fudgy brownie base, a creamy peanut butter filling, and a smooth ganache topping.
- Simple ingredients – You likely have most of these ingredients in your pantry already!
- Perfect for any occasion – These bars are great for potlucks, bake sales, or just a sweet treat at home.
- Make-ahead friendly – They store beautifully, so you can enjoy them for days.
What Do These Brownie Bars Taste Like?
Think of the best chocolate peanut butter cup you’ve ever had—now imagine it in brownie form! The base is dense and fudgy with a deep cocoa richness, while the peanut butter layer is smooth, slightly sweet, and perfectly balanced. The ganache on top adds a luxurious, velvety finish that makes every bite pure bliss.

Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Brownie Layer:
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Peanut Butter Layer:
- 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
For the Ganache:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk and spatula
- Saucepan
- Knife for slicing
How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownie Bars
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate & Butter
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and semi-sweet chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. Let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Make the Brownie Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Pour in the melted chocolate mixture and mix until smooth.
Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt, then gently fold until just combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Brownie Layers
Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
In a separate bowl, mix the peanut butter and powdered sugar until smooth. Drop spoonfuls over the brownie layer.
Pour the remaining brownie batter over the top and gently spread to cover.
Step 5: Bake the Brownies
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Step 6: Prepare the Ganache
While the brownies bake, heat heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
Remove from heat, add the chopped dark chocolate, and let sit for 5 minutes. Stir until smooth.
Step 7: Top with Ganache
Once the brownies have cooled slightly, pour the ganache over the top, spreading it evenly. Let it set before slicing.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
Once the ganache is set, slice into 12 bars and enjoy!
What to Serve with These Brownie Bars
These bars are delicious on their own, but if you want to make them even more decadent, try serving them with:
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream
- A drizzle of warm caramel sauce
- A glass of cold milk or a hot cup of coffee

Tips for the Best Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownie Bars
- Use good quality chocolate. The better the chocolate, the richer the brownies will taste.
- Don’t overmix the batter. Overmixing can make the brownies dense instead of fudgy.
- Let them cool before slicing. This helps the layers set, making cleaner cuts.
- Chill for perfect layers. If you want super neat layers, refrigerate for about 30 minutes before slicing.
How to Store Your Brownie Bars
- At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- In the Refrigerator: Keep in a sealed container for up to 1 week.
- In the Freezer: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but keep in mind that natural peanut butter is runnier and may not set as well. If using natural peanut butter, stir it well before mixing with powdered sugar.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour for regular flour.
What if I don’t have dark chocolate for the ganache?
You can use semi-sweet chocolate instead, though dark chocolate adds a richer flavor.
Can I double the peanut butter layer?
Absolutely! If you love extra peanut butter, feel free to double the filling for a thicker middle layer.
Final Thoughts – You Need to Make These!
These Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownie Bars are a must-try for any dessert lover. They’re rich, fudgy, peanut buttery, and topped with smooth chocolate ganache—basically, everything you could want in a sweet treat!
If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear what you think! Leave a comment below, rate the recipe, and don’t forget to tag me on Pinterest with your delicious brownie bar creations!
Looking for more indulgent desserts? Try these: