Vegan Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe

Flour: The base of the brownies, providing structure and texture.

Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.

Cocoa powder: Gives the brownies their rich chocolate flavor.

Baking powder: Helps the brownies rise and become fluffy.

Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.

Peanut butter: Adds a creamy, nutty flavor and richness.

Vegetable oil: Provides moisture and helps bind the ingredients together.

Water: Helps to mix the ingredients and create the batter.

Vanilla extract: Adds a subtle, sweet aroma and enhances the overall flavor.

To achieve a richer flavor and fudgier texture in your vegan peanut butter brownies, consider using coffee instead of water. The coffee will enhance the chocolate notes in the cocoa powder without overpowering the peanut butter. Simply replace the 1 cup of water with 1 cup of brewed coffee that has been cooled to room temperature.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients, making the brownies slightly denser and healthier.

• granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a subtle caramel flavor.

• cocoa powder - Substitute with carob powder: Carob powder is naturally sweeter and caffeine-free, making it a good alternative for those avoiding caffeine.

• baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and vinegar: Use ¼ teaspoon baking soda and ½ teaspoon vinegar to create the same leavening effect.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a more complex flavor and contains trace minerals.

• smooth or chunky peanut butter - Substitute with almond butter: Almond butter provides a different nutty flavor and is a good alternative for those with peanut allergies.

• vegetable oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil adds a subtle coconut flavor and has a higher content of healthy fats.

• water - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk adds a slight nutty flavor and additional nutrients.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a natural sweetness and a hint of maple flavor.

• Allow the brownies to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation from forming, which can make them soggy.
• For short-term storage, place the brownies in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer a firmer texture, store them in the refrigerator.
• To freeze, first cut the brownies into individual squares. This makes it easier to grab a portion without defrosting the entire batch.
• Wrap each brownie square tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps to prevent freezer burn and keeps them fresh.
• Place the wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of their freshness.
• When ready to enjoy, remove the desired number of brownies from the freezer. Let them thaw at room temperature for about 1-2 hours, or speed up the process by microwaving them for 20-30 seconds.
• For an extra treat, warm the brownies in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes after thawing. This revives their freshly-baked texture and enhances the peanut butter flavor.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Place the brownies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Cover the brownies with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out.
  4. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
  5. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before enjoying.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place a brownie on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover with a damp paper towel to keep it moist.
  3. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds.
  4. Check the brownie and heat for an additional 10 seconds if needed.
  5. Let it cool for a moment before eating.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Place a non-stick skillet over low heat.
  2. Add the brownies to the skillet.
  3. Cover with a lid to create a mini-oven effect.
  4. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  5. Remove from the skillet and let cool slightly before serving.

• Toaster Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your toaster oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Place the brownies on the toaster oven tray.
  3. Cover with aluminum foil to retain moisture.
  4. Heat for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
  5. Let cool slightly before enjoying.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Place the brownies in the air fryer basket.
  3. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through.
  4. Remove from the air fryer and let cool slightly before enjoying.

• Oven: Used to bake the brownies at the specified temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Baking pan: The container in which the brownie batter is poured and baked.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine all the ingredients together.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the dry and wet ingredients accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities of ingredients like baking powder and vanilla extract.

• Spatula: Used to mix the ingredients together until smooth and to spread the batter evenly in the baking pan.

• Whisk: Helps to combine the dry ingredients thoroughly before adding the wet ingredients.

• Toothpick: Used to check if the brownies are done by inserting it into the center and seeing if it comes out clean.

• Cooling rack: Allows the brownies to cool evenly after baking.

• Non-stick spray: Used to grease the baking pan to prevent the brownies from sticking.

Measure ingredients ahead: Pre-measure all ingredients and have them ready before you start. This will streamline the baking process.

Use a food processor: Mix the peanut butter, vegetable oil, water, and vanilla extract in a food processor for a smoother batter.

Line the pan: Use parchment paper to line your baking pan. This saves time on greasing and makes cleanup easier.

Preheat the oven early: Start preheating your oven while you prepare the batter to save time.

Cool quickly: Place the baking pan on a wire rack to cool faster before cutting into squares.