Name: Reese’s Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 10.3 ounces chewy fudge brownie mix (one 9×13 Family Size box); Ingredients needed to prepare brownie mix (as listed on package); 15 Reese’s peanut butter cups (full-size); 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 1/4 cups powdered sugar; 4 tablespoons heavy cream; 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract; Reese’s Pieces candy; Chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups; Melted chocolate (for drizzling); Peanut butter chips

Print Recipe· 4.2 from 5 reviews

If you have a sweet tooth that craves the perfect combination of chocolate and peanut butter, this Reese’s Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine fudgy, chewy brownies layered with whole Reese’s peanut butter cups, all topped with a luxuriously creamy peanut butter frosting that melts in your mouth. It’s a show-stopping dessert that feels like a hug in every bite, blending rich chocolate with that iconic peanut butter flavor we all adore. Once you try this recipe, it’s destined to become a go-to for all your dessert cravings and gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top-down view of all ingredients neatly arranged on a white marbled surface. There are four Reese's peanut butter cups in their brown paper liners positioned at the top left. Below them is a large transparent plastic bag filled with family-size brownie mix, showing a rich cocoa powder color. To the right of the peanut butter cups is a small clear glass bowl filled with heavy cream. Below the cream, two white eggs are side by side, with a yellow stick of unsalted butter resting beside them. A clear glass bowl full of white powdered sugar is near the center, next to a small white bowl holding amber-colored vanilla extract. Near the bottom left is an open jar of creamy peanut butter showing a smooth orange-brown color. To its right is a clear glass measuring cup with pale yellow vegetable oil and next to that a small clear bowl with water. All items are evenly spaced, clean, and clearly visible, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe keeps things simple yet decadent by using ingredients that create a perfect balance of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter goodness. Each component is essential — from the chewy fudge brownie mix that forms the base to the buttery frosting that crowns the brownies with a luscious finish.

10.3 ounces chewy fudge brownie mix: The foundation for our chewy, fudgy texture that everyone loves in a great brownie.
Ingredients to prepare brownie mix (as listed on package): These bring the mix together perfectly without any fuss.
15 Reese’s peanut butter cups (full-size): The star of the show, layered inside for gooey, nutty pockets of joy.
3/4 cup creamy peanut butter: Adds irresistible creaminess to the frosting topping.
1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened): Makes the frosting rich and spreadable.
2 1/4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and gives it that classic smooth texture.
4 tablespoons heavy cream: Whips the frosting to light, fluffy perfection.
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract: A subtle flavor booster that enhances the whole dessert.
Reese’s pieces candy: Optional for colorful, crunchy garnishing.
Chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups: Adds an extra peanut butter hit on top.
Melted chocolate (for drizzling): Makes the presentation visually irresistible and adds a gooey chocolate touch.
Peanut butter chips: Optional fun addition for texture and punch of peanut butter flavor.

How to Make Reese’s Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Preheat

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, the perfect heat for these brownies to bake evenly. Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper; make sure it hangs over the sides a bit to help with lifting the brownies out later. This prep step ensures an easy release and clean edges.

Step 2: Mix the Brownie Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the chewy fudge brownie mix along with the ingredients listed on the package until smooth and fully combined. The batter should come out thick but spreadable, setting the stage for the peanut butter cups to nestle inside.

Step 3: Layer with Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups

Spread about two-thirds of the brownie batter into the prepared pan, creating an even, thick layer. Next, arrange the 15 full-size Reese’s peanut butter cups in a neat 3 by 5 grid on top of the batter and press them down gently so they don’t move. Carefully spread the remaining batter over the peanut butter cups, ensuring they are completely covered for that magical surprise inside every bite.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center — it should come out mostly clean, with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter. The chewy, fudgy texture is what you’re aiming for, and this timing hits that sweet spot beautifully.

Step 5: Cool Completely

Once baked, let the brownies cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 2 to 3 hours. Cooling completely is crucial so the brownies set firmly and the frosting doesn’t melt when spread on top.

Step 6: Whip Up the Peanut Butter Frosting

In a large bowl, beat together the creamy peanut butter and softened unsalted butter until the mixture is silky smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar a little at a time, scraping the bowl sides to combine it evenly. Once fully incorporated, mix in the heavy cream and vanilla extract, then whip on medium-high speed for two minutes to create a light, fluffy frosting that perfectly balances the dense brownies.

Step 7: Frost and Finish

Use the parchment paper to lift the cooled brownies from the pan and place on a flat surface. Spread the peanut butter frosting evenly across the top in a thick, luscious layer. Now your brownie masterpiece is ready to cut and enjoy or dress up with extra toppings for that final flourish.

How to Serve Reese’s Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe

A clear glass baking dish lined with yellow parchment paper holds a layer of dark, shiny chocolate spread evenly across the bottom. On top of the chocolate, there are 15 round light brown peanut butter cups, arranged in a 3 by 5 grid, each with a smooth top and ridged edges sitting neatly on the chocolate layer. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Add visual excitement and texture by sprinkling Reese’s pieces candy or chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups on top of the frosting. A drizzle of melted chocolate and some peanut butter chips can also add a gourmet touch that tempts the eye and the taste buds alike.

Side Dishes

While these brownies are decadent enough on their own, pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream takes the experience to the next level. Fresh berries or a lightly salted caramel sauce also complement the peanut butter chocolate combo wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the brownies on a rustic wooden board for a cozy vibe or a sleek glass platter for a modern look. You can cut them into small bite-sized squares for parties or large decadent slices for family dessert night. Wrapping individual squares in parchment and tying with a ribbon makes an adorable gift, too.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your leftover Reese’s Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Avoid refrigeration if you want to keep the texture fudgy and moist — the frosting is stable enough for room temperature, but if your kitchen is warm, a cool spot is better.

Freezing

If you want to save these brownies for longer, they freeze beautifully. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. They will hold their taste and texture well for up to two months, making them a perfect make-ahead treat for busy days.

Reheating

To enjoy the brownies after freezing, thaw them overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a few hours. Warm individual squares in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a soft, freshly-baked feel. The frosting might soften slightly, adding to the decadent richness.

FAQs

Can I use homemade brownie batter instead of the mix?

Absolutely! Homemade batter works just as well and can add a personal touch. Adjust the baking time as needed, but the layering and frosting steps remain the same for the perfect Reese’s Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe.

Is it necessary to cool the brownies completely before frosting?

Yes, cooling completely prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a smooth, spreadable texture. Patience here results in a more polished final dessert.

Can I substitute crunchy peanut butter for creamy?

Creamy peanut butter is best for frosting because it whips smoothly, but if you love a little texture, crunchy peanut butter can add a nice surprise. Just be prepared for a slightly coarser frosting.

How do I prevent the frosting from being too thick or too runny?

Adding powdered sugar gradually helps control thickness, while the heavy cream lightens it. If your frosting gets too stiff, a splash more cream will loosen it up; if too soft, a bit more powdered sugar will thicken.

What’s the best way to cut these brownies cleanly?

Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry before each cut. This helps slice through the frosting and brownie layers cleanly without tearing.

Final Thoughts

Giving this Reese’s Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe a try will instantly brighten up your baking repertoire with its mouthwatering mix of chocolate and peanut butter magic. It’s the kind of dessert that brings smiles and happy sighs from friends and family alike. So roll up your sleeves and dive in — you’re about to create some seriously unforgettable brownies that everyone will ask for again and again.