If you are a fan of rich, decadent desserts, then you are going to absolutely fall in love with the Brownie Lover’s Peanut Butter Pizza Recipe. This unique treat combines the fudgy goodness of a classic brownie crust layered with a creamy peanut butter swirl, topped off with silky chocolate ganache, crunchy pretzels, and a sprinkle of sea salt. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser that brings together the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and chocolatey in one irresistible pizza form. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying a cozy night in, this dessert will quickly become your go-to indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind the Brownie Lover’s Peanut Butter Pizza Recipe lies in its straightforward yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a vital role, from creating that fudgy brownie base to the smooth peanut butter layer and luscious chocolate topping. These simple pantry staples come together to make a show-stopping dessert that’s both approachable and impressive.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps achieve a fudgy brownie texture when combined properly.
- Light brown sugar, packed: Offers a hint of molasses flavor that deepens the richness of the crust.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Provides the moist, tender crumb necessary for a perfect brownie base.
- Large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add structure without making it cakey.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, sweet aroma.
- All-purpose flour: The body of the brownie, holding everything together just right.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: The heart of the chocolate flavor, rich and intense.
- Instant espresso powder: Elevates the chocolate notes without making it coffee-flavored.
- Baking powder: Just a touch to help with slight lift, keeping the brownie dense yet tender.
- Fine salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
- Creamy peanut butter: The starring ingredient for the luscious peanut butter swirl.
- Peanut flour: Adds peanut depth and helps thicken the swirl.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and smooths the peanut butter mixture for easy spreading.
- Whole milk: Used sparingly to adjust the spreadability of the peanut butter layer.
- Chopped dark chocolate (60–70% cacao): The base for the rich and shiny chocolate ganache topping.
- Heavy cream: Creates the silky ganache texture when combined with dark chocolate.
- Mini pretzel twists, roughly chopped: Bring a crunch and saltiness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy layers.
- Cocoa nibs: Add a subtle bitter crunch that pairs perfectly with the sweet ganache.
- Flaky sea salt: The final flourish for that incredible burst of savory flavor with every bite.
How to Make Brownie Lover’s Peanut Butter Pizza Recipe
Step 1: Whisk Butter and Sugars
Start by whisking the warm melted butter with both the granulated and light brown sugars until it’s fully smooth. This step is essential for dissolving the sugar properly, which makes sure your brownie crust comes out fudgy and irresistibly rich. Taking the extra moment here will transform your final texture into one that brownie lovers dream about.
Step 2: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time into your buttery sugar mixture, vigorously mixing after each addition. This helps create a luscious batter without any unwanted graininess. Then gently stir in the vanilla extract, which adds that lovely floral sweetness that lingers on the palate.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, instant espresso powder, baking powder, and fine salt. This dry mix builds the backbone of your brownie’s deep, chocolate flavor and fudgy texture. When you fold this into your wet ingredients, do so carefully and just until combined to keep the batter dense and moist.
Step 4: Bake the Brownie Crust
Pour and evenly spread the brownie batter into a prepared 12-inch round pizza pan. Bake it in a preheated 350°F oven for about 18 to 22 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges just pull away slightly and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs. Let it cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes to set up nicely.
Step 5: Prepare the Peanut Butter Swirl
While the crust cools, mix the creamy peanut butter, peanut flour, and powdered sugar in a bowl. Slowly add whole milk one tablespoon at a time until the mixture is smooth and spreadable without being runny. Spread dollops of this peanut butter mixture over the warm brownie surface, swirling it gently with an offset spatula for a beautiful marbled effect. Let it rest for five minutes to firm up.
Step 6: Make the Chocolate Ganache
Heat the heavy cream until steaming, then pour it over the chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for a minute so the chocolate softens, then stir until glossy and smooth. Allow this ganache to cool for a few minutes so it thickens slightly, making it perfect for drizzling over your peanut butter layer.
Step 7: Assemble the Pizza
Drizzle your shiny ganache in a spiral pattern over the peanut butter swirl. While the ganache is still soft, sprinkle on the chopped mini pretzel twists and cocoa nibs for texture and bursts of flavor. Finish with a light dusting of flaky sea salt to elevate all the layers with just the right touch of savory crunch.
Step 8: Let it Set and Slice
Allow your Brownie Lover’s Peanut Butter Pizza Recipe to rest for about five minutes so the ganache can set properly. Then grab a pizza cutter and slice it into 8 to 10 generous wedges. This dessert is delightful served warm or at room temperature, making it perfect for any occasion.
How to Serve Brownie Lover’s Peanut Butter Pizza Recipe
Garnishes
When it comes to garnishes, simplicity is key to letting the Brownie Lover’s Peanut Butter Pizza Recipe shine. A sprinkle of extra flaky sea salt right before serving can enhance the sweet and salty contrast beautifully. For a fresh twist, consider adding some thinly sliced fresh strawberries or banana for a fruity note that pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors.
Side Dishes
This dessert pizza pairs wonderfully with lighter accompaniments that balance its richness. A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream are classic choices that add cool creaminess. For a more refreshing side, consider a bowl of fresh berries or a mint-infused fruit salad to cleanse the palate between bites.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests with presentation, try serving the Brownie Lover’s Peanut Butter Pizza Recipe on a rustic wooden pizza board lined with parchment paper. For individual servings, offer small square bites arranged neatly on a platter with mini forks. You can also drizzle some extra melted peanut butter or chocolate sauce on the plate for an artistic flair that heightens the indulgence.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Brownie Lover’s Peanut Butter Pizza Recipe keeps really well when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want it to last longer, refrigeration is a good option—just be sure to let the slices come back to room temperature or warm slightly before serving to bring back the soft, gooey texture.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze this dessert! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and allow it to reach room temperature before enjoying—it tastes just as scrumptious as fresh!
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds, or place the entire pizza in a low oven (around 300°F) for 5-7 minutes. This will refresh that fudgy brownie base and slightly soften the ganache, making each bite just as irresistible as when first made.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend that measures like regular flour. Just be mindful of brands as some gluten-free flours absorb more liquid. Adjust the milk slightly if needed to keep the peanut butter spread smooth.
Is there a substitute for peanut flour in the peanut butter swirl?
If you don’t have peanut flour, you can use finely ground peanuts or a little more powdered sugar to achieve similar texture and thickening. Just be careful to keep the balance so the swirl stays creamy and spreadable.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
You can, but creamy peanut butter melts and blends better, creating a smoother swirl. Crunchy peanut butter will add texture, which some may love, but it might affect how evenly the swirl spreads.
What type of chocolate is best for the ganache?
Using dark chocolate with 60 to 70% cacao gives the perfect balance of bittersweet richness that complements the peanut butter and brownie layers without being overly sweet. You can experiment with milk or semi-sweet chocolate, but darker chocolate usually works best.
Can I prepare this dessert entirely in advance?
Yes, you can bake the brownie crust a day ahead, store it well wrapped, and prepare the peanut butter swirl and ganache fresh before serving for the best texture. The finished pizza can also be assembled a few hours ahead and refrigerated until ready to slice and serve.
Final Thoughts
If you love the idea of a dessert that perfectly marries the richness of brownies with the creamy charm of peanut butter and the luxurious touch of chocolate ganache, you must give the Brownie Lover’s Peanut Butter Pizza Recipe a try. It’s a guaranteed showstopper that will wow any crowd and become an instant favorite in your recipe rotation. Get ready for countless compliments and requests for seconds!
Print
Brownie Lover’s Peanut Butter Pizza Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A decadent Brownie Lover’s Peanut Butter Pizza featuring a fudgy brownie crust topped with a creamy peanut butter swirl, rich dark chocolate ganache, crunchy pretzels, cocoa nibs, and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. This dessert pizza is perfect for sharing and combines multiple textures and bold flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Brownie Crust
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp instant espresso powder
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp fine salt
Peanut Butter Swirl
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tbsp peanut flour
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp whole milk
Chocolate Ganache and Toppings
- 4 oz chopped dark chocolate (60–70% cacao)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup mini pretzel twists, roughly chopped
- 2 tbsp cocoa nibs
- 1 tsp flaky sea salt
Instructions
- Prepare Brownie Batter: Whisk warm melted butter with granulated and brown sugar until fully smooth to encourage sugar dissolution and support a fudgy crumb in your brownie crust.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract carefully to combine.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, espresso powder, baking powder, and fine salt. Gently fold this dry mix into the wet ingredients until just combined, avoiding overmixing for a dense, gooey texture.
- Bake Brownie Crust: Spread the brownie batter evenly into a prepared 12-inch round pizza pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 18–22 minutes until the top feels set and edges pull away slightly from the pan. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs. Cool for 10 minutes on a wire rack.
- Make Peanut Butter Swirl: In a medium bowl, whisk together creamy peanut butter, peanut flour, and powdered sugar. Gradually add milk one tablespoon at a time until the mixture becomes spreadable but not runny. Dollop the peanut butter mixture onto the warm brownie crust and use an offset spatula to swirl gently. Allow it to set for 5 minutes.
- Prepare Chocolate Ganache: While the brownie crust is cooling, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until steaming. Pour the cream over the chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let sit for one minute to soften, then stir until smooth and glossy. Cool for about 3 minutes to thicken slightly for drizzling.
- Assemble and Garnish: Drizzle the ganache in a spiral pattern over the peanut butter layer. Immediately sprinkle the chopped pretzels and cocoa nibs across the top, finishing with a dusting of flaky sea salt for an added texture and flavor burst.
- Rest and Serve: Let the pizza rest for about 5 minutes to allow the ganache to set before slicing. Use a pizza cutter to cut into 8–10 wedges. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Be careful not to overmix the brownie batter to maintain a fudgy texture.
- Adjust milk in the peanut butter swirl to achieve a spreadable but not runny consistency.
- Letting the ganache cool slightly before drizzling helps it achieve the perfect thickness.
- This dessert is best served shortly after assembling but can be stored covered at room temperature for a day.
- Use a 12-inch pizza pan for the brownie base to ensure even baking.
