There’s something undeniably enchanting about the aroma of freshly baked brownies wafting through the kitchen, isn’t there? I can vividly recall the first time I indulged in a slice of chocolatey heaven—Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter. This recipe is a delightful twist on classic brownies, combining rich chocolate with creamy peanut butter and those irresistible peanut butter cups. One bite reveals not only a decadent dessert but a moment of pure nostalgia that transports me back to carefree days of sharing sweet treats with friends. The best part? These brownies are surprisingly simple to whip up in just 15 minutes of prep time, making them a perfect solution for any last-minute gathering. Plus, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’ll have everyone coming back for more. So, are you ready to create your own magical moment with these mouthwatering beauties?
Why Will You Adore These Brownies?
Decadent layers of chocolate goodness make every bite a dream come true. Irresistible peanut butter cups elevate the flavor, ensuring this dessert stands out at any gathering. Quick to prepare in just 15 minutes, these brownies are ideal for busy days or surprise guests. Versatile enough to pair perfectly with ice cream or coffee, they cater to all palates. Crowd-pleaser status is guaranteed; watch as friends and family devour them in minutes! Don't miss out on creating your own batch of indulgence—try these Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter today!
Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter Ingredients
Craft your own chocolate-peanut butter masterpiece!
For the Batter
- 2 cups white sugar – Sweetens the brownies, making them truly decadent.
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour – Gives the brownies their structure and chewiness.
- 1 cup melted butter – Adds richness and helps create that fudgy texture.
- 4 eggs – Binds the ingredients together and provides moisture.
- 1 cup cocoa powder – Infuses the brownies with deep chocolate flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall taste with aromatic warmth.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder – Helps the brownies rise, adding to their fluffy texture.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
For the Toppings
- 1 bag Reese's Baking Cups – Adds irresistible pockets of peanut buttery goodness throughout.
- 1 bag Reese's Pieces candy – Provides a delightful crunch and a pop of color on top.
Now that you have everything ready, it's time to whisk them together and bake these mouthwatering Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter to perfection!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure an even bake. While it's heating, take an 8x8-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper or lightly coat it with cooking spray. This will prevent your delicious Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter from sticking and help you lift them out easily once baked.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of white sugar, 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, and 1 cup of melted butter. Add in 4 eggs, 1 cup of cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Beat the mixture until it transforms into a smooth and creamy batter, taking about 2-3 minutes of mixing.
Step 3: Layer the First Half of the Batter
Once your batter is well combined, pour half of it into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the bottom, creating a solid base for the Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter. This layer will set the perfect stage for the creamy and crunchy toppings to come.
Step 4: Add the Reese's Baking Cups
Sprinkle a whole bag of Reese's Baking Cups over the layer of brownie batter, distributing them evenly. Then, generously add a handful of Reese's Pieces candy on top. This combination of chocolatey and peanut buttery goodness will make each bite of your brownies unforgettable.
Step 5: Top with Remaining Batter
Gently pour the other half of the brownie batter over the Reese's toppings in the pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, ensuring the candy is well-covered. This creates the perfect layers, with a delightful surprise waiting to be discovered upon cutting into your finished Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter.
Step 6: Add More Toppings
For an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle the second bag of Reese's Baking Cups over the top of the brownie batter. Lightly press them into the surface with your fingers, making sure they stick. This final layer adds texture and makes your brownies visually appealing, ready for the oven.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes. Keep an eye on them—the brownies are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. This ensures a fudgy yet set brownie base for your Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter.
Step 8: Cool and Slice
After baking, carefully remove the pan from the oven and let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, use the parchment paper edges to lift the brownies out. Slice them into squares, admiring the layers and candy embedded within these indulgent treats before serving.
Expert Tips for Perfect Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter
Don't Overmix: Be careful not to overmix the batter after adding the dry ingredients; this can lead to tough brownies rather than the desired fudgy texture.
Oven Calibration: Always check your oven's temperature with an oven thermometer to ensure it's accurate. Uneven baking can ruin your Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter.
Chilling Time: Allow the brownies to cool completely before slicing. Chilling them in the fridge for an hour can help firm them up for cleaner cuts.
Layering Technique: Make sure to evenly distribute the Reese's Baking Cups and Pieces; this ensures every bite is packed with flavor and creamy peanut butter goodness.
Storage Tips: Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze them for later enjoyment—if they last that long!
What to Serve with Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter?
There's nothing quite like the rich decadence of brownies that beckons for accompaniments to elevate your indulgent experience.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness contrasts beautifully with the fudgy texture of the brownies, creating a delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this topping enhances the richness, making every bite feel luxurious and celebratory.
- Milk: Whether it's classic cow's milk or a nut-based alternative, a cold glass of milk washes down the sweetness and brings out the chocolate flavors.
- Coffee: A dark roast balances the sweetness, making for a perfect after-dinner treat that complements the brownie’s richness.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling some over the brownies adds an extra layer of indulgence that chocoholics will adore.
- Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries offer a tart contrast to the sweet brownies, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
- Peanut Butter Drizzle: For ultimate peanut butter lovers, a simple drizzle of warm peanut butter adds an extra layer of nostalgia and flavor.
- Caramel Sauce: The richness of caramel pairs perfectly with the chocolate, creating a decadent dessert experience.
- Mint Tea: A refreshing herbal tea provides a harmonious finish to the sweetness, refreshing your palate after a rich treat.
Make Ahead Options
These Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy their decadent flavors with minimal fuss on busy days! You can prepare the brownie batter up to 24 hours in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. You can even layer the first half of the batter in the baking pan, add the Reese's Baking Cups and Pieces, then cover and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, simply pour the remaining batter on top and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have delicious, homemade brownies ready to serve with ease, ensuring they taste just as delightful as if made fresh!
How to Store and Freeze Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter
Room Temperature: Keep leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, ensuring they stay moist and delicious.
Fridge: For longer freshness, store them in the fridge for up to a week. Just remember to let them come back to room temperature for the best flavor before enjoying!
Freezer: You can freeze your Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter for up to 3 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, microwave individual squares for about 15-20 seconds or until just warmed through.
Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter Variations
Feel free to get creative with these brownies and make them your own with these fun twists!
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these brownies celiac-friendly and just as delicious.
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Nutty Twist: Add 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. It adds a beautiful texture contrast to the creamy chocolate.
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Minty Fresh: Stir in 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract for a minty kick that enhances the chocolate and peanut butter flavors beautifully.
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Fudgy Interlude: Replace all-purpose flour with additional cocoa powder to create an ultra-fudgy brownie. These brownies will be rich and melt-in-your-mouth divine.
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a touch of cayenne pepper or chili powder into the batter for a surprising kick. The heat offers a unique contrast to the sweetness that’s sure to entice adventurous palates.
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Dairy-Free: Substitute melted butter with coconut oil or vegan butter, and swap eggs for a flaxseed mixture to accommodate vegan diets without sacrificing richness.
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Extra Chocolate: Fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips into the batter for an extra chocolaty experience that will elevate your brownies into a chocolate lover's paradise.
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S'mores Style: Layer crushed graham crackers and mini marshmallows on top before baking to create s'mores-inspired brownies—perfect for summer nostalgia!
Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting Reese's Baking Cups and Pieces?
Absolutely! When selecting Reese's Baking Cups and Pieces, choose fresh products without any visible damage to the packaging. Ensure the expiration date is well ahead to guarantee their taste and quality. Look for vibrant colors in the Pieces—dark or faded colors may hint at age.
How should I store leftover Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter?
I recommend storing leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them moist and ready for snacking! If you want to enjoy them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, but let them return to room temperature for the best fudgy experience.
Can I freeze Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap individual brownie squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply take out a square and microwave it for 15-20 seconds to warm it back up.
What if my brownies turn out too dry?
Very! If you find your brownies a bit dry, the most common culprit is overbaking. To avoid this, start checking for doneness at the 55-minute mark by inserting a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs. If your brownies do turn out dry, consider serving them warm with a scoop of ice cream to add moisture and creaminess back!
Are there any dietary considerations for Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter?
Indeed! While these brownies are a fantastic treat, they do contain gluten and dairy, making them unsuitable for anyone with gluten intolerance or lactose allergies. For a gluten-free option, try substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. However, make sure to double-check all packaged ingredients for gluten content.
Indulgent Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter You Can't Resist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or coat with cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all the batter ingredients and mix until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle the Reese's Baking Cups over the batter and then add Reese's Pieces candy on top.
- Pour the remaining batter over the toppings and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle the second bag of Reese's Baking Cups on top and gently press them into the batter.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the brownies cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.
