Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Brownies

Indulge in the Irresistible Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Brownies

There’s something incredibly satisfying about combining rich chocolate brownies with the creamy, nutty delight of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. These Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Brownies perfectly balance dense, fudgy texture with pockets of smooth peanut butter and chocolate goodness. The aroma alone, wafting warm cocoa and buttery sweetness, is enough to pull everyone into the kitchen. Whether it’s for a cozy family gathering or a special treat after dinner, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will leave you craving more.

Prep Time, Cook Time & Servings

This recipe is straightforward and takes about 15 minutes to prep. The brownies bake for 30-35 minutes, so total time from start to finish is roughly 50 minutes. It yields 9 to 12 sizeable pieces, perfect for sharing—though you might want to keep a few all to yourself!

Ingredients

• ½ cup salted butter, melted and cooled
• 1½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• 9 full-size Reese’s peanut butter cups

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and prepare pan: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray an 8×8 inch baking pan with non-stick spray and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
2. Mix butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat together the melted, cooled butter and granulated sugar until well combined and slightly fluffy.
3. Add vanilla and eggs: Beat in the vanilla extract. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure a smooth, glossy batter.
4. Sift and combine dry ingredients: Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add to the wet mixture, beating until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep brownies tender.
5. Layer the batter and peanut butter cups: Spread half of the brownie batter evenly into your prepared pan. Arrange the 9 Reese’s peanut butter cups in neat rows on top of the batter. Carefully spread the remaining batter over the peanut butter cups, covering them completely.
6. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The brownies are done when the edges look set and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
7. Cool and cut: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies out, then cut into 9 or 12 pieces as preferred.

Pro Tips for Perfect Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Brownies

• Let butter cool: Melted butter should be cool or just warm to prevent cooking the eggs when combined.
• Don’t overmix: Mix until ingredients are just combined to maintain a tender crumb texture.
• Use quality cocoa powder: For the richest chocolate flavor, choose a high-quality unsweetened cocoa.
• Check for doneness early: Start checking your brownies around 28 minutes to avoid overbaking, which leads to dryness.
• Cool fully before cutting: Cutting while warm can cause the peanut butter cups to squish and the brownies to crumble.

Variations and Substitutions

Looking to tweak this recipe? Here are some delicious ideas:

• Healthier swap: Replace half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber. You can also reduce sugar slightly, though it may affect sweetness and texture.
• Dairy-free option: Use vegan butter and check peanut butter cups for dairy-free versions to make this recipe suitable for lactose intolerance.
• Nut-free alternative: Substitute peanut butter cups with a nut-free chocolate candy or spread for those with allergies.
• Extra texture: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the batter for more crunch.
• Flavor boost: Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder into the batter to elevate the chocolate taste.

Storage and Reheating Tips

These brownies store well to keep their fudgy texture:

• At room temperature: Keep them in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• In the refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days; allow to come to room temperature before eating for best flavor.
• Freezing: Wrap brownies tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheating: Warm individual pieces in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften the peanut butter center without melting the whole brownie.

FAQ: Your Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Brownie Questions Answered

Can I use mini Reese’s peanut butter cups instead of full-size?

Yes, but you’ll want to use about 18 mini cups and arrange them evenly to ensure every bite has some peanut butter goodness.

How do I prevent the peanut butter cups from sinking?

By spreading half the batter first and gently pressing the peanut butter cups on top before covering with the rest of the batter, they stay nicely suspended.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, making sure it contains xanthan gum for structure.

What’s the best way to get fudgy brownies?

Use high-quality cocoa powder, avoid overbaking, and don’t overmix the batter. These steps help keep the brownies dense and moist.

Can I double this recipe for a larger pan?

You can double the ingredients for a 9×13 inch pan. Adjust baking time accordingly, starting to check at around 35 minutes.

Nutrition Estimate Per Serving

Each serving (assuming 12 pieces) provides approximately 280 calories, with about 4 grams of protein, 35 grams of carbohydrates, and 14 grams of fat. The combination of butter and peanut butter cups adds richness and healthy fats, while the eggs contribute to the protein content. Enjoy these brownies as an occasional indulgence that satisfies your sweet tooth without going overboard.

Print Recipe

Reese's Peanut Butter Cup Brownies

Decadent fudgy brownies layered with Reese's Peanut Butter Cups for a rich chocolate and peanut butter experience. Perfect for dessert lovers craving a sweet, shareable treat.

Prep Time15 minutes mins

Cook Time35 minutes mins

Total Time50 minutes mins

Course: Desserts & Sweets

Cuisine: American

Servings: 9 servings

Calories: 480kcal

Author: Samantha Jones

Ingredients

• ½ cup salted butter, melted and cooled
• 1½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• 9 full-size Reese's peanut butter cups

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper
• Beat melted butter and sugar until fluffy
• Mix in vanilla and eggs one at a time
• Sift and add flour, cocoa, salt, and baking powder; combine gently
• Spread half the batter in the pan, place peanut butter cups on top, cover with remaining batter
• Bake 30-35 minutes until edges are set
• Cool completely before cutting into 9-12 pieces

Notes

Use parchment paper overhang for easy lifting
Avoid overmixing to maintain fudgy texture
Toothpick should show moist crumbs for optimal doneness
Store in airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days