Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Brownies

If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and peanut butter, then you’ve stumbled upon a gem! These Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Brownies are not just your average brownies; they are a delightful treat that brings joy to any gathering. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family celebration, these brownies are sure to impress. The colorful crunch of Reese’s Pieces mixed with fudgy brownie goodness creates a flavor explosion that everyone will love.

What makes this recipe special is its simplicity. With just a few easy steps and ingredients, you can whip up these delicious treats in no time. Plus, they’re perfect for sharing—your friends and family will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With straightforward steps, you can make these brownies without any hassle.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the combination of peanut butter and chocolate!
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake them ahead of time for gatherings or enjoy them fresh out of the oven.
• Delicious flavor: The rich taste of peanut butter paired with crunchy candies makes each bite unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for these Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Brownies is a breeze! You’ll find that these simple, wholesome ingredients come together beautifully to create something truly special. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Brownie Base

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted (Use unsalted butter for better control of salt content.)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 4 large eggs (Bring to room temperature for easier mixing.)
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cocoa powder (Use unsweetened cocoa powder.)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

For the Peanut Butter Swirl

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter, melted (Melting ensures smooth incorporation.)
• 1 cup Reese’s Pieces candies (For a colorful and crunchy finish.)

Variations

This recipe is flexible, allowing you to tailor it to your tastes! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Try different candies: Swap out Reese’s Pieces for M&M’s or chopped chocolate bars if you prefer.
• Make it gluten-free: Use an equal amount of gluten-free all-purpose flour as a substitute.
• Top with frosting: For an extra indulgent treat, add a layer of creamy frosting on top after baking!

How to Make Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Brownies

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large baking pan or line it with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter with both sugars—this mixture should be smooth and glossy. It’s essential as this step helps create that rich brownie base.

Step 2: Mix in Wet Ingredients

Next, add in the eggs, one at a time, along with the vanilla extract. Mixing well ensures that everything is evenly combined. This is where your brownies start to come together into a deliciously gooey mixture!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually fold this dry mixture into your wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps your brownies fudgy!

Step 4: Add Peanut Butter and Candy

Now comes the fun part! Gently fold in the melted peanut butter until everything is beautifully swirled together. Finally, stir in those colorful Reese’s Pieces candies for that delightful crunch.

Step 5: Bake Your Brownies

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake in your preheated oven for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs. Let them cool slightly before cutting into squares—this is when anticipation builds!

With every bite of these Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Brownies, you’ll experience pure bliss! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Brownies

Making brownies can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll take your Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Brownies to the next level!

• Use room temperature eggs: Bringing your eggs to room temperature helps them incorporate better into the batter, leading to a smoother and more consistent texture in your brownies.

• Sift dry ingredients: Sifting the flour and cocoa powder can prevent lumps and ensure an even distribution of ingredients, giving you a perfectly fudgy brownie without any floury pockets.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined will keep your brownies tender and chewy. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture, which is not what we want!

• Check for doneness: Use a toothpick to test for doneness. You want it to come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. This ensures that your brownies remain fudgy.

• Let them cool completely: Allowing the brownies to cool in the pan before cutting makes it easier to get clean slices. Trust me; patience pays off with perfect pieces!

How to Serve Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Brownies

Serving these delicious brownies can be as fun as making them! Here are some ideas to present this delightful dessert in style.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light and creamy contrast that complements the richness of the brownies.
• Chocolate drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted chocolate over the top can make your brownies look extra decadent and tempting.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped peanuts or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor that pairs beautifully with peanut butter.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream is always a classic pairing that provides a delightful contrast to the warm, chocolatey brownies.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad can balance the richness of the brownies with its natural sweetness and acidity, making it a perfect complement.
• Chocolate sauce: Serve with a side of warm chocolate sauce for drizzling—because who doesn’t love more chocolate?
• Coffee or tea: Pairing these brownies with a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea enhances their flavors while providing a comforting finish.

Enjoy every bite of these Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Brownies—you deserve it!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Brownies are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time, ensuring you have a delightful treat ready whenever the cravings hit.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the brownies to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, store in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Cut the brownies into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place brownies on a baking sheet and cover loosely with aluminum foil.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, use a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 15-20 seconds.

FAQs

Have questions about making these delicious brownies? Here are some common queries!

Can I use natural peanut butter in Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Brownies?

Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but make sure it is smooth and well-mixed to ensure even incorporation into the batter.

How can I make my Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Brownies more chocolatey?

For extra chocolate flavor, consider adding chocolate chips or using dark cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa powder. Enjoy that rich taste!

Are Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Brownies suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! These brownies freeze wonderfully. Just follow the storage tips above, and you’ll have an indulgent treat ready anytime.

What should I serve with my Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Brownies?

These brownies pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra special dessert experience.

How do I know when my brownies are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies; if it comes out with just a few moist crumbs, they’re perfectly fudgy. If it comes out clean, they may be overbaked.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about these Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Brownies as I am! They bring together the comforting flavors of peanut butter and chocolate in such a delightful way. Perfect for sharing or savoring solo, these brownies are sure to brighten your day. Enjoy making them, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings! Happy baking!