If you have a sweet tooth but want to keep things plant-based and wholesome, this Vegan Peanut Butter Jelly Brownies Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Imagine the rich, fudgy texture of brownies infused with creamy peanut butter and topped with a vibrant, tangy berry jelly layer—the perfect balance of flavors and textures all in a plant-powered treat! These brownies are not only incredibly delicious but also naturally sweetened and packed with wholesome ingredients, making them a guilt-free indulgence you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simple yet essential ingredients, each playing a key role in creating a deliciously rich and satisfying dessert. From crunchy almonds to luscious peanut butter and fresh berries, every element brings something special to the texture and taste of the brownies.
- 2 cups almonds: Provides a nutty base and adds crunch while keeping the brownie dough naturally gluten-free.
- ½ cup cacao powder: Brings that deep, chocolatey flavor that you crave in any brownie.
- ½ teaspoon sea salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors perfectly.
- 12 medjool dates (pitted): Acts as a natural sweetener and binder for the brownie base.
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter: Adds moisture and richness to the brownie dough.
- 1 tablespoon water: Helps achieve the perfect dough consistency.
- 1 â…› cups peanut butter: The star ingredient for the creamy peanut layer.
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (solid): Helps melt and unify the peanut butter while adding subtle tropical notes.
- 1 â…“ cups frozen strawberries: Provides natural sweetness and vibrant color for the jelly layer; fresh berries work great too.
- 1 ¼ cups frozen raspberries: Adds tartness and depth to the jelly topping.
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup: Sweetens the berry jelly naturally without refined sugar.
- 2 teaspoons agar-agar powder: Sets the jelly firmly without gelatin, keeping it vegan.
- 11.3 oz vegan-friendly chocolate: Used for the final decadent chocolate coating.
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil (solid): Helps melt the chocolate smoothly for dipping.
How to Make Vegan Peanut Butter Jelly Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Berries
Start by lining a 7″ x 11″ baking pan with parchment paper—this makes removing the brownies a breeze later. If you’re using frozen berries for the jelly layer, pull them out of the freezer now to begin thawing slightly as you get started.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Base
Throw the almonds, cacao powder, and sea salt into your food processor and blitz them to reach a fine, crumbly texture that will form the foundation of your brownies. Next, add the pitted medjool dates and 2 tablespoons of peanut butter and blend again until a dough forms. If the mixture seems dry, slowly add a tablespoon of water and blend again to achieve a dough that’s firm but pliable.
Step 3: Press and Freeze the Brownie Base
Once your dough is ready, press it firmly into the lined baking pan using a spatula. For an even, compact finish, use the bottom of a flat glass to smooth it out. Pop this base into the freezer while you prepare the peanut butter layer.
Step 4: Prepare and Spread the Peanut Butter Layer
In a small bowl, gently melt the 1 â…› cups peanut butter and 1 tablespoon solid coconut oil over a double boiler. Whisk them together until smooth and velvety. Retrieve the brownie base from the freezer and spread this luscious peanut butter mixture evenly over it. Return the pan to the freezer to let this layer firm up for about an hour.
Step 5: Make the Berry Jelly Topping
Place your berries in a saucepan and bring them to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Let them cook down for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally so they don’t stick. Add in the maple syrup and stir well, then whisk in the agar-agar powder. Bring the mixture back to a boil while whisking continuously, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 more minutes. This process activates the agar-agar, which will help your jelly set perfectly without gelatin.
Step 6: Assemble and Set the Brownies
Pour the berry jelly gently over the peanut butter layer, spreading it evenly. Let it cool for about 5 minutes, then place the pan back in the freezer for at least 4 hours or ideally overnight. This time allows the jelly to set completely and the layers to fuse into one irresistible slab.
Step 7: Cut and Coat with Chocolate
Once fully set, lift the brownie slab out of the pan and cut it into 16 bars. To make the chocolate coating, melt the vegan-friendly chocolate with 1 teaspoon of coconut oil over a double boiler. Dip each bar carefully into the melted chocolate, then lay them on parchment paper. Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top for a finishing touch that enhances every flavor.
Step 8: Final Chill and Storage
Let the chocolate harden by placing the coated bars back in the freezer. Store your vegan peanut butter jelly brownies in an airtight container in the freezer to maintain their perfect texture and freshness.
How to Serve Vegan Peanut Butter Jelly Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
While a sprinkle of sea salt is already part of the recipe, feel free to add toppings like chopped peanuts, fresh berries, or a light dusting of cocoa powder to give your brownies an extra wow factor. A drizzle of almond or cashew cream can elevate the flavor and create a beautiful presentation.
Side Dishes
These brownies are rich and indulgent enough to stand alone as a dessert, but if you’re serving them for a gathering, pair them with a refreshing fruit salad or a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or a chilled herbal tea also complement the flavors wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice your squares and arrange them on a wooden serving board or stack them in small towers on a pretty plate for a visually appealing treat. Wrapping individual bars in parchment paper tied with twine makes a delightful gift or party favor. For a fun twist, serve smaller bite-sized pieces alongside your favorite nut butter dip for a playful dessert experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover vegan peanut butter jelly brownies keep best when stored in an airtight container in the freezer. This preserves their chewy texture and luscious layers. When stored properly, they’ll stay fresh for up to two weeks, making them a perfect make-ahead snack or dessert.
Freezing
Freezing is essential for this recipe due to the jelly layer and chocolate coating. Keep the brownies frozen in a single layer or separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Frozen brownies are convenient for when you want a quick sweet fix without compromising flavor or texture.
Reheating
Because of the jelly and chocolate coating, reheating is not necessary or recommended for this recipe. Simply allow the brownies to thaw at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before enjoying. This preserves the delicious contrast between the creamy peanut butter, fruity jelly, and smooth chocolate.
FAQs
Can I use fresh berries instead of frozen for the jelly?
Absolutely! Fresh berries work wonderfully in this recipe. Just keep in mind that they might cook down a little faster during the simmering step, but the flavor and texture will still be delicious.
Is the peanut butter layer optional?
While you could technically skip it, the peanut butter layer is what makes this recipe truly special by adding creamy richness and a lovely contrast to the fruity jelly and brownie base. It’s highly recommended!
Can I substitute almonds with other nuts?
Yes, you can use walnuts, cashews, or even pecans if you prefer. Each nut will bring a slightly different flavor, but the overall texture will remain excellent.
What’s the purpose of agar-agar powder in this recipe?
Agar-agar is a plant-based gelling agent that helps the berry jelly layer set without using gelatin, keeping the recipe vegan while achieving the perfect jelly consistency.
How long do these brownies keep at room temperature?
Because of the jelly and peanut butter layers, it’s best to keep these brownies refrigerated or frozen rather than at room temperature. They can soften too much or spoil if left out for extended periods.
Final Thoughts
This Vegan Peanut Butter Jelly Brownies Recipe has quickly become one of my all-time favorite desserts to share with friends and family. It’s the kind of treat that feels indulgent but made entirely from wholesome, plant-based ingredients—proof that you don’t need dairy or eggs to create incredible flavor and texture. Give it a try, and I promise these brownies will become your go-to recipe when you want to impress without stress!
Print
Vegan Peanut Butter Jelly Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 60 minutes
- Cook Time: 300 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours
- Yield: 16 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Vegan
- Diet: Vegan
Description
These Vegan Peanut Butter Jelly Brownies are a decadent, no-bake treat perfect for anyone craving a rich, nutty chocolate dessert with a fruity twist. Made with wholesome ingredients like almonds, dates, and cacao, layered with creamy peanut butter and a vibrant berry jelly, these brownies require some chilling time but are straightforward to prepare. They offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors that are entirely plant-based and vegan-friendly.
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 2 cups almonds
- ½ cup cacao powder
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- 12 medjool dates, pitted
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon water (optional, for consistency)
Peanut Butter Layer
- 1 â…› cups peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (solid)
Berry Jelly Layer
- 1 â…“ cups frozen strawberries (or fresh)
- 1 ¼ cups frozen raspberries (or fresh)
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons agar-agar powder
Chocolate Coating
- 11.3 oz vegan-friendly chocolate
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil (solid)
- Sea salt, for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the Pan: Line a 7″ x 11″ baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring that the sides are covered for easy removal of the brownies later.
- Defrost Berries: If using frozen berries, take them out of the freezer now to allow them to defrost slightly while you prepare the other components.
- Make Brownie Base Crumbs: Add almonds, cacao powder, and sea salt to a food processor and blitz them until they reach a fine crumb consistency.
- Form Brownie Dough: Add pitted dates and peanut butter to the food processor. Blend until all ingredients come together into a sticky, cohesive dough.
- Adjust Dough Consistency: Check the dough; if it’s too dry, add the tablespoon of water and blend again for about 30 seconds to achieve the right texture.
- Press Dough into Pan: Spread the brownie dough evenly into the prepared pan using a spatula. Press and compact the dough using the bottom of a flat glass to create a solid base. Place the pan in the freezer to set.
- Prepare Peanut Butter Layer: Combine peanut butter and coconut oil in a bowl and gently heat over a double boiler. Whisk until thoroughly melted and combined into a smooth mixture.
- Layer Peanut Butter: Retrieve the brownie base from the freezer and spread the melted peanut butter mixture evenly over it. Return to the freezer and let set for about an hour.
- Simmer Berries: Place strawberries and raspberries in a saucepan, bring to a medium heat simmer, and cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add Syrup & Agar-Agar: Stir in pure maple syrup, then add agar-agar powder. Bring the mixture to a boil while whisking continuously, then reduce to simmer and cook for 5 minutes to activate the agar-agar.
- Layer Berry Jelly: Remove from heat and pour the berry jelly evenly over the peanut butter layer. Allow to cool for 5 minutes, then return the pan to the freezer to set for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight.
- Cut Into Bars: Once fully set, remove the brownie slab from the pan and cut into 16 equal bars.
- Prepare Chocolate Coating: Melt vegan chocolate and coconut oil together in a double boiler until smooth.
- Dip Bars in Chocolate: Line a surface with parchment paper. Dip each brownie bar into the melted chocolate coating thoroughly, then place them on the parchment paper.
- Garnish and Set Chocolate: Sprinkle each chocolate-coated bar with sea salt while the coating is still wet. Allow the chocolate to firm up.
- Store: Keep the finished brownies stored in an airtight container in the freezer until ready to serve.
Notes
- Using frozen berries helps achieve a thicker jelly layer but fresh can be used if preferred.
- Agar-agar is a vegan alternative to gelatin and thickens the berry jelly when simmered properly.
- Be sure to line the pan with parchment paper with enough overhang for easy removal of the brownies.
- Chilling time is crucial for the layers to set properly – do not rush this process.
- Storing these brownies in the freezer helps maintain their texture and extends shelf life.
