Peanut Butter Brownie Bites are an irresistible combination of rich, fudgy brownies, smooth peanut butter, and glossy dark chocolate, all finished with a crunchy pecan topping. These bite-sized indulgences are perfect for parties, gifting, or satisfying a sweet craving with just the right portion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings together three decadent layers—chocolate, peanut butter, and nuts—in a convenient mini dessert format. They’re easy to make, easy to serve, and even easier to enjoy. Whether you’re a peanut butter lover or a brownie aficionado, these treats deliver the best of both worlds with their creamy, crunchy, and chocolatey textures.

ingredients

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

For the Brownie Base:

unsalted butter, melted
granulated sugar
eggs
vanilla extract
unsweetened cocoa powder
all-purpose flour
salt
baking powder

For the Peanut Butter Layer:

creamy peanut butter
butter, softened
powdered sugar
vanilla extract

For the Topping:

dark chocolate chips or chunks
coconut oil (optional, for melting)
chopped pecans

directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a mini muffin pan or line with paper cups.
In a mixing bowl, stir together the melted butter and granulated sugar. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Stir just until combined.
Spoon the brownie batter into the prepared muffin pan, filling each cup about two-thirds full.
Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until the tops are set and a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean. Let the brownie bites cool completely.
In a separate bowl, mix the peanut butter, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and fluffy.
Once the brownies are cooled, press a spoonful of the peanut butter mixture on top of each bite. Chill for 15 minutes to set.
Melt the dark chocolate with the coconut oil (if using) until smooth. Drizzle or spoon the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer.
Sprinkle chopped pecans on top of each bite before the chocolate sets.
Refrigerate until firm, then serve or store.

Servings and timing

Makes about 24 mini bites
Prep time: 20 minutes
Bake time: 14 minutes
Chill time: 30 minutes
Total time: approximately 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

Nut-Free Option: Use sunflower seed butter and skip the pecans for an allergy-friendly version.
Crunchy Peanut Butter: For added texture, use crunchy peanut butter in the filling.
Salted Caramel Drizzle: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce over the chocolate for a richer flavor.
White Chocolate Topping: Replace the dark chocolate with white chocolate for a sweeter variation.
Espresso Brownie Base: Add a teaspoon of instant espresso to the brownie batter for a mocha twist.

storage/reheating

Store the brownie bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let them sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving for the best texture. These bites can also be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying. Do not reheat—these are best served chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I make these without a mini muffin pan?

Yes, you can use a regular muffin tin for larger bites or bake the brownie layer in a square pan and cut into squares before topping.

Can I use store-bought brownie mix?

Absolutely. Prepare the mix as directed, then follow the peanut butter and topping steps in this recipe.

Is it okay to skip the coconut oil?

Yes, the coconut oil just helps the chocolate melt smoothly, but it’s optional.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, though it will be sweeter. Choose according to your preference.

Do I have to chill the peanut butter layer before adding chocolate?

Chilling helps the layer firm up, making it easier to spread the chocolate evenly without mixing the layers.

Can I add a surprise filling inside the brownie?

You can press a mini peanut butter cup or caramel piece into the batter before baking for an extra treat.

Are these gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make them gluten-free.

How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking when I bite into it?

Let the bites sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for a softer texture.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, these store well in the fridge and can be made a few days ahead.

What can I substitute for pecans?

Use chopped peanuts, almonds, walnuts, or leave the nuts off entirely.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Brownie Bites are a decadent, three-layer treat that combines fudgy chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and crunchy pecans in one irresistible package. Easy to prepare and perfect for sharing, these mini desserts deliver big flavor and are sure to become a go-to favorite for any occasion.