Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Brownies

These chocolate peanut butter crunch brownies are pure joy for anyone who loves the combination of gooey brownies rich marshmallow and a crispy chocolate topping. With every bite you get fudgy homemade brownies a layer of fluffy marshmallow and a topping that crackles with peanut butter and chocolate. This is a showstopping dessert that starts with a boxed brownie mix but ends up tasting like something from your favorite bakery and you only need six simple ingredients.

I remember making these for a bake sale thinking they would not last but they disappeared in an hour and even my grown up friends begged for the recipe

Ingredients

• Ghirardelli Brownie Mix: rich chocolate base makes it stand out choose any fudge style mix for best texture
• Marshmallow Cream: gives a sweet and gooey middle Jet Puffed is extra fluffy but other brands work fine
• Chocolate Chips: use a quality semi sweet variety so the topping is not too sweet check the ingredient label for cocoa butter
• Smooth Peanut Butter: creamy peanut butter blends better with the chocolate avoid natural peanut butters that separate
• Rice Krispies Cereal: this is what adds crunch use fresh opened cereal for the most crisp layer
• Tips For Best Results: check the brownie box for egg and oil freshness and when shopping, give your cereal bag a little shake to be sure it is not stale

Instructions

Bake the Brownies:

Prepare the brownie mix exactly as directed on the package using the eggs water and oil recommended Once baked allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan this ensures they do not get soggy under the toppings

Spread the Marshmallow Layer:

Using an offset spatula or sturdy spoon gently dollop and spread the marshmallow cream across the cooled brownies If it sticks spritz your spatula with a bit of nonstick spray

Melt the Chocolate:

Place the chocolate chips in a microwave safe bowl Microwave for thirty seconds stir then continue in ten second bursts stirring after each until fully melted Stop early if most chips are melted as residual heat finishes the job

Combine with Peanut Butter:

Immediately stir the smooth peanut butter into the warm chocolate until silky and uniform The warmth will help it blend smoothly

Mix the Cereal:

Pour the Rice Krispies cereal into a large bowl Drizzle the warm chocolate peanut butter mixture on top Using a sturdy spoon or spatula fold and mix until every cereal piece is glossy and coated

Finish and Set:

Spoon the chocolatey cereal mixture over the marshmallow layer on the brownies Use the back of your spoon to gently press the mixture down into an even tight layer

Chill for Perfection:

Place the entire pan in the refrigerator for at least two hours This step is important for firm slicing If you want clean lines let it chill longer

Cut and Serve:

Remove brownies from the pan using parchment or by loosening the edges Slice with a sharp knife wiping between each cut Serve at room temperature for maximum chew

The marshmallow layer is my personal favorite I have fond memories of my kids giggling as we stretched it across the brownies and snuck tastes with a spoon It is the part everyone fights over

Storage Tips

Keep these brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days For extra freshness add a small piece of parchment between layers to prevent sticking Brownies can be served straight from the fridge or left at room temperature for softer texture

Ingredient Substitutions

Any fudge style brownie mix will work if Ghirardelli is unavailable For the crunch layer you can try other crispy rice cereals or even cornflakes for a playful swap In place of marshmallow cream use homemade marshmallow fluff if you are feeling fancy

Serving Suggestions

These brownies are a hit at birthday parties or potlucks You can cut them small for kid friendly bites or into large generous squares for the true chocolate lovers A scoop of vanilla or peanut butter ice cream on the side makes it an epic sundae treat

Cultural and Seasonal Context

Chocolate and peanut butter desserts are a true American classic This mashup of textures and flavors draws inspiration from nostalgic bake sale bars and lunchbox treats For a seasonal spin add colored sprinkles for holidays or a pinch of cinnamon in winter

Seasonal Adaptations

Add red and green sprinkles for holiday celebrations Sprinkle crushed mini eggs for spring events Mix in a pinch of sea salt flakes over the topping for summer picnics

Nothing brings people together like chocolate and peanut butter I have watched these brownies disappear faster than any dessert at our block party and the recipe always gets shared

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use a different brownie mix brand?

Yes, you can use any boxed brownie mix you prefer. Just prepare according to the package directions for best results.

→ Is there a substitute for marshmallow cream?

Fluff or homemade marshmallow spread can be used. Regular mini marshmallows melted gently may also work as an alternative.

→ Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

Creamy peanut butter yields a smoother texture, but crunchy peanut butter will add even more crunch if you prefer.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Keep the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

→ Can I freeze these treats?

Yes, slice them into squares and freeze in a sealed container with parchment between layers. Thaw before eating.