Description
These Reese’s Peanut Butter Brownies combine rich, chewy fudge brownies with the irresistible taste of Reese’s peanut butter cups and a creamy peanut butter frosting. Perfectly layered and topped with chocolate drizzle and peanut butter candies, this dessert offers a decadent treat for peanut butter lovers with a moist, fudgy texture and a fluffy, sweet topping.
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 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)
Peanut Butter Frosting
- 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
Toppings
- Reese’s Pieces candy
- Chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups
- Melted chocolate (for drizzling)
- Peanut butter chips
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, letting it hang over the sides for easy removal later. Set aside.
- Prepare Brownie Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the brownie mix with the required ingredients noted on the package until fully combined and smooth.
- Layer Brownie Batter and Peanut Butter Cups: Spread about two-thirds of the brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Arrange the 15 Reese’s peanut butter cups in a 3×5 grid over the batter and gently press them down slightly. Carefully spread the remaining brownie batter over the peanut butter cups, completely covering them.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean, allowing for a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.
- Cool Brownies: Remove the brownies from the oven and transfer to a wire rack. Let cool completely for about 2-3 hours to set properly before frosting.
- Make Frosting: In a large bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and softened unsalted butter. Using an electric mixer, beat until smooth and creamy.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar a little at a time while continuing to beat the mixture. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. The frosting will become thick.
- Incorporate Cream and Vanilla: Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Beat on medium-high speed for 2 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Frost Brownies: Use the parchment paper edges to lift the cooled brownies out of the pan. Spread the prepared peanut butter frosting evenly over the top of the brownies.
- Serve: Cut the brownies into 15 squares. Optionally, garnish with Reese’s Pieces, chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups, peanut butter chips, and a drizzle of melted chocolate before serving. Enjoy immediately or store for later.
Notes
- Ensure the brownies are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting.
- You can adjust the frosting sweetness by reducing powdered sugar if desired.
- Storage: Keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- For sharper peanut butter flavor, use natural peanut butter but beware it can affect frosting texture.
- To make cutting easier, refrigerate brownies after frosting for 30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American