As I rifled through my pantry one afternoon, the sight of a bag of Reese's Baking Cups sparked an idea that took my sweet tooth by storm. That’s how I discovered this gem: Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a mere 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up brownies that are not only rich and decadent but also easy to share with friends and family. The combination of creamy peanut butter and gooey chocolate creates a symphony of flavors that’s sure to satisfy cravings and leave everyone asking for more. Plus, these brownies freeze beautifully—perfect for unexpected guests or when you just need a sweet fix later! Ready to make your kitchen the happiest place on the block? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe together!
Why Are These Brownies So Irresistible?
Decadent Flavor: The blend of rich cocoa and creamy peanut butter creates a flavor explosion that both kids and adults adore.
Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep, you can have these brownies in the oven, making them a perfect weeknight indulgence.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Ideal for parties, potlucks, or just to share with friends, these brownies will disappear fast!
Endless Variations: Feel free to mix in nuts or drizzle extra chocolate; the possibilities are endless!
Freeze and Enjoy: These beauties freeze well, making it easy to enjoy sweet moments whenever the craving strikes!
Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter Ingredients
For the Brownie Base
- 2 cups white sugar – This provides the sweetness that balances the rich cocoa flavor.
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour – Essential for holding the brownie structure together.
- 1 cup melted butter – Adds moisture and a rich, buttery flavor to the brownies.
- 4 large eggs – Binds the ingredients and gives the brownies a fudgy texture.
- ½ cup cocoa powder – The star ingredient that brings that deep chocolate taste.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder – Provides a slight lift to the brownies for a perfect texture.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and accentuates the chocolatey goodness.
For the Reese's Touch
- 1 bag Reese's Baking Cups – These add delightful chocolate-peanut butter surprises in every bite.
- 1 handful Reese's Pieces candy – Offers a crunchy texture and additional bursts of peanut butter flavor.
- 1 additional bag Reese's for topping – The final touch that makes these Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter truly irresistible!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Begin your baking journey by preheating your oven to 350°F. While the oven heats, take an 8x8-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, or generously coat it with cooking spray. This ensures that your gooey Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter will release easily, making for clean, perfect squares once they're baked.
Step 2: Mix the Brownie Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of white sugar, 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of melted butter, 4 large eggs, ½ cup of cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Using a hand mixer or a whisk, beat the mixture until it turns smooth and creamy, with no lumps in sight. This rich batter is the heart of your brownies!
Step 3: Layer Your Batter
Carefully pour half of the velvety brownie batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. This will serve as the base for your scrumptious Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter. Make sure that the layer is consistent to ensure even baking and a perfect bite every time!
Step 4: Add the Reese's Goodies
Sprinkle one bag of Reese's Baking Cups and a handful of Reese's Pieces candy over the batter in the pan. This is where the magic happens; the chocolate and peanut butter flavors will meld beautifully as they bake. Be sure to distribute them evenly to guarantee that each square is packed with delightful surprises.
Step 5: Top It Off
Pour the remaining brownie batter over the top of the Reese's layer, spreading it smoothly to cover the candies completely. This sealing step is crucial to keep those delicious morsels hidden until you take that first bite of your Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter.
Step 6: Add More Reese's
Open your additional bag of Reese's and sprinkle the candies over the top of the brownie batter. Gently press them in to ensure they meld into the surface as they bake, adding an extra layer of flavor and appeal. These will give your brownies a delicious pop of color and texture.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place your baking pan into the preheated oven and bake the brownies for 55-65 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’re done when the edges pull away slightly from the pan and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it.
Step 8: Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the brownies cool completely in the pan. Patience is key here, as cooling allows the flavors to settle. Once cool, use the parchment paper to lift the brownies out, place them on a cutting board, and slice into dreamy squares to share with friends and family.
Make Ahead Options
These Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter are a game-changer for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix the brownie batter and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking, keeping the flavors fresh and preventing any browning. Additionally, you can also prepare the layers by adding the Reese's Baking Cups and Pieces, then cover with plastic wrap to refrigerate until you're ready to bake. When you're ready to indulge, simply pour the prepared batter into your pan and bake as directed. This way, you can enjoy the rich, decadent goodness with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
How to Store and Freeze Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter
Room Temperature: Store your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and flavorful.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the brownies for up to a week. Just be sure to wrap them tightly to avoid them drying out.
Freezer: These delectable Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter freeze beautifully! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When you're ready to indulge again, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that just-baked taste!
Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter Variations
Ready to unleash your creativity in the kitchen? These Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter are a blank canvas just waiting for your personal touch!
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Nutty Delight: Add 1 cup of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a crunchy texture that balances the gooeyness. The nutty flavor enhances each bite and offers a delightful crunch.
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate alternatives for a delicious vegan treat. Enjoy the same rich flavors while accommodating dietary preferences.
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Extra Chocolate: Swap in chocolate chips for some of the Reese's baking cups for an even more decadent experience. This enhances the fudgy texture while infusing additional chocolate flavor throughout.
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Peanut Butter Swirl: Create a luscious swirl by mixing ½ cup of creamy peanut butter into the batter before baking. This twist brings an even creamier texture and intense peanut butter flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter for a surprising, warm heat that complements the sweetness. It’ll give your brownies an unexpected depth that will leave everyone guessing!
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Minty Fresh: Toss in a few drops of peppermint extract into the batter for a refreshing mint chocolate experience. Pairing mint with chocolate is a classic that never disappoints!
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Fruit Fusion: Mix in 1 cup of crushed raspberries or diced strawberries for a fruity twist. The tartness of the berries beautifully contrasts the richness of the brownies, creating an exciting flavor combination.
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Salted Caramel Indulgence: Drizzle homemade or store-bought salted caramel sauce over the top before baking for a sweet and salty delight. This gooey addition will take your brownies to a whole new level of indulgence!
Expert Tips for Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter
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Room Temperature Eggs: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter that blends well with the melted butter and other ingredients.
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Don’t Overmix: Be careful not to overmix your batter; this can lead to dense brownies. Beat just until everything is combined and creamy.
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Use Quality Cocoa: Invest in high-quality cocoa powder for the best chocolate flavor in your Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter. The cocoa truly makes a difference!
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Don’t Rush Cooling: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out. This helps them set properly and makes cutting easier.
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Check Doneness: Perform the toothpick test a few minutes early to avoid overbaking. You want to see a few moist crumbs, not clean, as that indicates the fudgy texture we love!
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Storage Tips: Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh for days, or freeze for longer storage!
What to Serve with Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter
Indulging in a warm, gooey brownie is a delight, but complementing it with the right sides can elevate your dessert experience.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream balances the brownies' chocolate and peanut butter, creating an unforgettable flavor combination.
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Fresh Berries: Sweet and tangy berries like strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing contrast to the rich, fudgy texture of the brownies.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream brings a fluffy lightness that cuts through the brownie’s density, making each bite even more satisfying.
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Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: Adding a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce enhances the chocolate flavor and provides an extra indulgent touch to every square.
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Peanut Butter Sauce: For true peanut butter lovers, a warm peanut butter drizzle can be the ultimate topping, amplifying the nutty flavor beautifully.
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Coffee or Espresso: A rich cup of coffee or a shot of espresso pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the brownies, enhancing their chocolatey essence.
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Milkshake: A thick chocolate or peanut butter milkshake offers a playful and nostalgic pairing, ideal for both kids and adults alike.
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Nutty Trail Mix: For a crunchy element, consider serving a side of nutty trail mix, providing a delightful textural contrast to the soft brownies.
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Caramel Sauce: A touch of warm caramel sauce introduces a sweet, buttery flavor that beautifully complements the chocolate and peanut butter.
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Mint Tea: For a refreshing, light drink option, a soothing mint tea can cleanse the palate after indulging in these rich brownies.
Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ingredients for my Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, use room temperature eggs and high-quality cocoa powder. When selecting your Reese's Baking Cups, look for a bag that has a good variety without any visible damage or dark spots. Fresh ingredients create the most delicious brownies!
What’s the best way to store leftover brownies?
For sure! Store your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them wrapped tightly for up to a week. Just remember that they taste best when they're fresh!
Can I freeze Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter, and how?
Yes, you can freeze them! To do this, wrap the brownies individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to warm them up for that fresh-baked goodness!
What should I do if my brownies are too dry?
Very likely, your brownies could have been overbaked. For perfect fudginess, you should remove them from the oven as soon as a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs. If you've already baked them too long, consider serving with a scoop of ice cream to complement the texture. If you find them too dry next time, try covering the pan with foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking to retain moisture.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind for Reese's Brownies?
Great question! These brownies contain gluten and dairy, as they are made with flour and butter. If you’re looking for alternatives, swapping all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and using dairy-free butter can work quite well. As for pets, chocolate and peanut butter are toxic to dogs, so be sure to keep them away from these treats!
Indulgent Reese's Brownies with Peanut Butter Swirls
Equipment
- 8x8-inch baking pan
- mixing bowl
- hand mixer
Ingredients
For the Brownie Base
- 2 cups white sugar provides sweetness
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour holds structure
- 1 cup melted butter adds moisture and flavor
- 4 large eggs binds ingredients
- 0.5 cups cocoa powder provides chocolate flavor
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract enhances flavor
- 0.5 teaspoon baking powder provides lift
- 0.5 teaspoon salt balances sweetness
For the Reese's Touch
- 1 bag Reese's Baking Cups adds chocolate-peanut butter surprises
- 1 handful Reese's Pieces candy offers crunchy texture
- 1 bag Reese's for topping final touch for flavor
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, melted butter, eggs, cocoa powder, vanilla, baking powder, and salt. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the Reese's Baking Cups and Reese's Pieces over the brownie batter in the pan.
- Pour the remaining brownie batter over the Reese's layer, spreading it smoothly to cover the candies.
- Sprinkle the additional bag of Reese's on top and gently press them in.
- Bake for 55-65 minutes until the edges pull away and a toothpick comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out and slicing into squares.
