Reese's Brownies Peanut Butter

These fudgy Reese's brownies are my answer whenever chocolate and peanut butter cravings hit at the same time The combination of moist chocolate batter with melty Reese's cups and crunchy candies makes these extra special for parties or just a cozy night in

These brownies were born out of a family movie night disaster when I tried to jazz up plain brownies with candy leftovers My friends begged for the recipe and now they are a must at every get together

Ingredients

• White sugar: Adds sweetness and keeps brownies moist Always use fresh white sugar for best results
• All-purpose flour: Provides structure for the perfect chewy texture Sift before adding to prevent lumps
• Butter melted: Gives richness and softness in every bite Choose high quality unsalted butter
• Eggs: Bind everything together and give the brownies lift Use room temperature eggs for even mixing
• Cocoa powder: Deepens the chocolate flavor Try Dutch process for extra chocolatey treats
• Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors Use pure vanilla for best taste
• Baking powder: Helps brownies rise just enough for a cake like top Make sure your baking powder is fresh
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and awakens all the flavors
• Reese's Baking Cups and Reese's Pieces Candy: The star of the dessert Choose the classic variety packs for texture and fun color

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Pan:

Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper so the brownies lift out easily after baking pressing the paper into the corners for a snug fit

Mix the Batter:

Combine sugar flour melted butter eggs cocoa powder vanilla extract baking powder and salt in a large bowl Beat vigorously until the batter looks smooth and shiny with no lumps

First Layer and Add Candy:

Pour half the brownie batter into the prepared pan and use a spatula to spread it into an even layer Sprinkle one bag of the Reese's cups and candy across the surface pressing some lightly into the batter

Add the Second Layer:

Gently pour the rest of the batter over the Reese's layer spreading carefully to cover all the candy Sprinkle the remaining Reese's candy evenly on top and pat them down softly so they stick

Bake:

Slide the pan into the oven and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 55 to 65 minutes The top should be set and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean with chewy crumbs but not raw batter

Cool and Serve:

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan until room temperature so they hold their shape when cut Lift them out with the parchment paper and use a sharp knife for clean squares

Save

Cocoa powder is my favorite ingredient because it reminds me of baking with my grandmother She always insisted it had to be just right for the best chocolate flavor These brownies became our family birthday tradition after she declared them the best she ever had

Storage Tips

Once brownies are completely cool store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days For longer storage wrap pieces individually and freeze They taste just as good after thawing sometimes even fudgier

Ingredient Substitutions

No Reese's candy on hand Use any peanut butter cups or chocolate candies you like For a nut free treat swap with caramel chocolate pieces or chocolate chips You can also use brown sugar for a deeper caramel note

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce for a decadent dessert These brownies also pair beautifully with a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of coffee Perfect for school bake sales or a surprise work treat

Save

The Reese’s Brownies Story

Brownies as we know them are an American creation and adding peanut butter is classic nostalgia Reese's cups themselves have been around since the 1920s so this brownie is the perfect mash up of comfort food history I first made these for a birthday bash and they quickly stole the spotlight

Recipe FAQs

→ How can I ensure the brownies stay fudgy?

Be careful not to overbake; check with a toothpick around 55 minutes and remove from the oven when moist crumbs cling.

→ Can I substitute other candies for Reese's?

Yes, you can use other peanut butter candies, chopped peanut butter cups, or even chocolate chips for a variation in flavor.

→ What's the best way to cut brownies cleanly?

Allow brownies to cool completely, then use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts to get tidy portions.

→ Is it necessary to use parchment paper?

Parchment makes removal and cleanup easier, but greasing the pan works as an alternative. Parchment is recommended for clean edges.

→ Can these brownies be frozen?

Yes, once cooled, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving for best texture.