Vegan Peanut Butter Brownies (No Bake) Recipe
If you’re craving a decadent treat that is both indulgent and completely plant-based, then you’re in for a real delight with this Vegan Peanut Butter Brownies (No Bake) Recipe. These luscious brownies combine the rich, earthy taste of cocoa with the irresistible creaminess of peanut butter, all without turning on your oven. With layers of chewy walnut brownie, smooth peanut butter caramel, and a silky chocolate-peanut butter topping, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s no bake, making it perfect for warm days or when you want a fuss-free dessert that delivers on flavor and texture in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients make up this stunning dessert, and each one plays an essential role in building the flavor, texture, and richness of your Vegan Peanut Butter Brownies (No Bake) Recipe. From crunchy walnuts to smooth peanut butter, each element brings its own magic to the table.
- 150 g walnuts: Adds a lovely crunch and natural nuttiness that complements the peanut butter beautifully.
- 50 g cocoa powder: Provides that deep, chocolatey richness that brownies are known for.
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
- 150 g Medjool dates (pitted): Natural sweeteners that also help bind the brownie base together.
- 80 g smooth peanut butter: Adds creamy, nutty goodness to the brownie dough.
- 260 g smooth peanut butter: The star of the peanut butter caramel layer, giving luscious texture and flavor.
- 175 ml pure maple syrup: Sweetens the caramel naturally and adds a slight hint of warmth.
- 55 g coconut oil (solid): Helps to melt everything into a silky smooth caramel.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional): A subtle aromatic boost for the caramel layer.
- 100 g roasted peanuts: Gives a delightful crunch to contrast the creamy caramel.
- 200 g vegan chocolate: Forms the luxurious top layer with its smooth, melted richness.
- 100 g peanut butter: Used in the topping for that perfect finishing touch and signature swirl design.
How to Make Vegan Peanut Butter Brownies (No Bake) Recipe
Step 1: Make the Brownie Base
Start by pulsing the walnuts, cocoa powder, and sea salt in a food processor until you get a light crumbly texture. This creates the perfect nutty foundation. Then add the pitted dates and 80 grams of smooth peanut butter, blending until the mixture comes together into a sticky dough that holds its shape. The dates act as a natural binder and sweetener here, while the peanut butter adds richness and moisture.
Step 2: Press the Brownie Dough
Line an 8×8″ square baking tin with parchment paper for easy removal later. Press the brownie dough evenly into the base using the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass. This forms a sturdy, chewy base layer that you’ll top with the luscious peanut caramel.
Step 3: Prepare the Peanut Butter Caramel
In a heatproof bowl, combine 260 grams peanut butter, maple syrup, solid coconut oil, and vanilla extract if using. Heat this mixture gently over a double boiler, stirring until it becomes a smooth, luscious caramel. This slow melting process ensures a silky texture that’s perfect for spreading over the dense brownie base.
Step 4: Add the Crunchy Peanuts
Remove the caramel from the heat and gently fold in the roasted peanuts using a rubber spatula. The peanuts introduce a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy caramel and dense brownie.
Step 5: Spread the Caramel Layer
Evenly spread the peanut butter caramel with peanuts over the brownie base. Pop the tin into the fridge and let it set for 3 to 4 hours. This firming step is crucial to help the layers stay distinct and easy to slice later.
Step 6: Make the Topping
Melt the vegan chocolate and 30 grams of peanut butter together over a double boiler, stirring until perfectly smooth. In another bowl, gently heat the remaining peanut butter until it reaches a similar consistency. If either mixture is too thick, add a little coconut oil to thin it out. This step is all about creating the ideal texture for swirling and drizzling atop your brownies.
Step 7: Create the Signature Swirl Design
Pour the melted chocolate evenly over the chilled caramel layer. Transfer the warmed peanut butter to a piping bag or use a spoon to draw lines across the chocolate. To create the beautiful fan design, drag a wooden skewer across the lines in one direction, then the other, alternating movement to achieve that stunning marbled effect. This is where your brownies really start to look like a masterpiece!
Step 8: Chill and Slice
Return the brownie tin to the fridge for another 20 to 30 minutes to let the topping set fully. When ready to slice, run a sharp knife through boiling water to warm it up, dry it, and gently cut the brownies. The warmed knife glides smoothly, delivering clean cuts through each luscious layer without crumbling.
How to Serve Vegan Peanut Butter Brownies (No Bake) Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a few extra roasted peanuts or a pinch of flaky sea salt over each slice to enhance the texture and heighten the nutty flavor. A light dusting of cocoa powder or a drizzle of extra peanut butter can also add a beautiful finishing touch.
Side Dishes
These brownies pair wonderfully with a scoop of coconut or vanilla vegan ice cream for a creamy contrast. For a refreshing balance, serve alongside fresh berries or a tangy fruit compote. A cup of rich plant-based coffee or chai tea also elevates the experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, consider cutting the brownies into bite-sized squares and serving them on a platter with colorful edible flowers or fresh mint leaves. You can also stack smaller pieces into a layered dessert glass with vegan whipped cream and crushed nuts for a stunning presentation that’s as fun to eat as it is to look at.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Vegan Peanut Butter Brownies (No Bake) Recipe fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps maintain the creamy texture of the caramel and topping while keeping the brownie base firm. Properly stored, they will stay delicious for up to a week.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these brownies over a longer period, freezing is a great option. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight freezer-safe container. They freeze wonderfully for up to two months without losing their texture or flavor. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge for at least an hour before serving.
Reheating
Since this is a no-bake recipe, reheating is generally unnecessary and might alter the texture. However, if you prefer a softer bite, allow your brownies to come to room temperature before enjoying. Avoid microwaving directly to preserve the layered textures and prevent melting.
FAQs
Can I substitute walnuts with another nut?
Absolutely! Pecans or almonds work beautifully in this recipe and will provide a slightly different but equally delightful texture and flavor. Just make sure to toast them lightly for the best taste.
Is it necessary to use a double boiler for melting?
While not mandatory, using a double boiler helps melt chocolate and peanut butter gently, preventing burning or seizing. If you don’t have one, use a heatproof bowl over simmering water and stir constantly for best results.
Can I make these brownies nut-free?
This recipe relies heavily on nuts for texture and flavor, but you could experiment with seed butters like sunflower seed butter and seed-based toppings if nuts are off-limits. The taste and texture will change, so proceed with adjustments!
How sticky is the brownie dough to work with?
The dough is pleasantly sticky but not overly wet, making it easy to press into the pan. If it feels too dry, adding a small extra spoonful of peanut butter or a couple more dates can help bind it better.
Can I skip the peanut butter caramel layer?
The peanut butter caramel is what makes these brownies truly extraordinary, adding richness and a creamy contrast. While you could skip it, your brownies won’t have that signature lush flavor and texture that make this recipe special.
Final Thoughts
Honestly, the Vegan Peanut Butter Brownies (No Bake) Recipe has a way of stealing hearts and satisfying cravings with its layers of homemade goodness and effortless style. Whether you’re vegan, dairy-free, or simply a lover of all things peanut butter and chocolate, this is a recipe to keep close and share often. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and marvel at how indulgent no-bake treats can be!
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Vegan Peanut Butter Brownies (No Bake) Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 40 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Delicious and rich Vegan Peanut Butter Brownies made without any baking. These no-bake brownies combine a walnut and date base with a creamy peanut butter caramel layer, topped with a vegan chocolate and peanut butter drizzle. Perfect for a decadent, allergy-friendly treat that is easy to prepare and requires refrigeration to set.
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 150 g walnuts
- 50 g cocoa powder
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- 150 g medjool dates, pitted
- 80 g smooth peanut butter
Peanut Butter Caramel
- 260 g smooth peanut butter
- 175 ml pure maple syrup
- 55 g coconut oil (solid)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 100 g roasted peanuts
Topping
- 200 g vegan chocolate
- 100 g peanut butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Brownie Base: Add the walnuts, cocoa powder, and sea salt to a food processor and blitz until the mixture has a light crumb texture. Then add the pitted dates and 80 g peanut butter, continuing to blend for a few minutes until the mixture sticks together forming a dough.
- Form the Base: Line an 8×8″ square cake tin with parchment paper. Press the brownie dough evenly into the base of the tin using a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to create an even layer.
- Make Peanut Butter Caramel: Combine 260 g peanut butter, maple syrup, coconut oil, and vanilla extract in a heat-resistant bowl. Heat over a double boiler (bain-marie) while stirring continuously until all ingredients melt into a smooth caramel.
- Mix and Spread Caramel: Remove the caramel from heat and fold in the roasted peanuts using a rubber spatula. Spread this caramel evenly over the brownie base. Place the tin in the fridge and chill for 3 to 4 hours to set.
- Prepare the Topping: Melt the vegan chocolate and 2 tablespoons (30 g) of peanut butter over a double boiler, stirring until smooth. In a separate bowl, melt the remaining peanut butter over a double boiler. Adjust thickness of melted chocolate or peanut butter with a little coconut oil if needed, so both have similar consistency.
- Decorate Brownies: Pour the melted chocolate over the chilled peanut butter caramel layer. Transfer the melted peanut butter to a piping bag or use a spoon to create lines on the chocolate. Use a wooden skewer to drag across the peanut butter lines in alternating directions to form a fan design.
- Refrigerate to Set: Carefully return the brownie tin to the fridge and chill for an additional 20 to 30 minutes to allow the topping to firm up.
- Slice the Brownies: Heat a sharp knife by placing it in a jug of boiling water. Dry the knife and use its warmth to gently cut through the brownies for clean slices.
- Store: Keep the brownies refrigerated in an airtight container or well wrapped for up to one week. They can also be frozen wrapped tightly for up to two months; allow at least one hour to defrost before serving.
Notes
- Ensure all ingredients, especially the peanut butter and coconut oil, are at the right consistency for easy melting and mixing.
- Use a sharp, warmed knife to get clean slices without cracking the topping.
- For best results, chill the brownies thoroughly between layers and before slicing.
- These brownies are best stored chilled and can be frozen for longer storage.
- Customize the nut types or vegan chocolate to fit preferences or dietary restrictions.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (No Bake)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Vegan, American-inspired
