Reeses Stuffed Brownies

Introduction

Ever wondered what happens when you combine fudgy brownies with creamy Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and top it all with fluffy peanut butter frosting? Pure dessert magic, that’s what! Reese’s Stuffed Brownies are the ultimate treat for chocolate and peanut butter lovers, delivering a decadent, crowd-pleasing dessert in just over an hour. Whether you’re baking for a party, a special occasion, or just craving something indulgent, these brownies are sure to steal the show. Ready to dive into this sweet, nutty adventure? Let’s preheat the oven and get baking!

Overview

Reese’s Stuffed Brownies are a rich, indulgent dessert that layers a brownie mix with whole Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, then tops it with a creamy peanut butter frosting. What makes them special? The gooey peanut butter cups melt into the fudgy brownie, creating a perfect chocolate-peanut butter combo, while the frosting adds a light, fluffy finish. This recipe takes about 1 hour (including prep, baking, and frosting), is beginner-friendly thanks to the boxed mix, and yields 12–16 brownies. Perfect for potlucks, birthdays, or satisfying your sweet tooth.

• Time Requirement: 1 hour 5 minutes (15 minutes prep, 25–30 minutes baking, 20 minutes cooling and frosting)
• Difficulty Level: Easy (ideal for beginners)
• Servings: 12–16 brownies

Essential Ingredients

The beauty of Reese’s Stuffed Brownies lies in their simple, indulgent ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:

For the Brownies

• Brownie Mix (1 box, plus ingredients listed on the package): A shortcut that delivers fudgy, chocolatey brownies with minimal effort. Common add-ins include eggs, oil, and water (check your box).
• Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups (15 full-sized): The star of the show, adding creamy peanut butter and chocolate that melts into the brownie.

For the Frosting

• Creamy Peanut Butter (¾ cup): Provides a smooth, nutty base for the frosting.
• Unsalted Butter (½ cup, softened): Adds richness and helps create a fluffy texture.
• Powdered Sugar (2¼ cups): Sweetens and thickens the frosting for spreadable consistency.
• Heavy Cream (4 tablespoons): Loosens the frosting and adds a creamy, luxurious texture.
• Vanilla Extract (1½ teaspoons): Enhances the flavor with a warm, sweet note.

Substitutions and Variations

• Brownie Mix: Use a homemade brownie recipe if preferred, ensuring it’s designed for a 9×13 pan. Gluten-free brownie mix works for dietary needs.
• Reese’s Cups: Swap with mini Reese’s cups (about 30–35) or peanut butter-filled chocolate candies. For a nut-free version, use chocolate truffles or caramel candies.
• Peanut Butter: Crunchy peanut butter adds texture, or use almond or sunflower seed butter for a peanut-free option.
• Butter: Replace with vegan butter for a dairy-free frosting.
• Heavy Cream: Half-and-half or milk can substitute, but the frosting may be less rich. For dairy-free, use coconut cream.
• Toppings: Add chopped Reese’s, chocolate chips, or a drizzle of melted chocolate for extra flair.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Reese’s Stuffed Brownies is a breeze, with a boxed mix and simple frosting steps. Follow these instructions for a decadent treat:

1. Prepare the Baking Dish:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two sides for easy removal. Lightly grease the parchment to prevent sticking.
   • Tip: Ensure the parchment covers the sides to lift the brownies out cleanly.
2. Make the Brownie Batter:
   • In a large bowl, prepare the brownie mix according to the package instructions (typically mixing with eggs, oil, and water). Stir until smooth and fully combined.
   • Tip: Avoid overmixing to keep the brownies fudgy rather than cakey.
3. Assemble the Brownies:
   • Spread about ⅔ of the brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking dish, creating a smooth base.
   • Unwrap 15 full-sized Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and arrange them evenly over the batter, pressing them in slightly.
   • Gently spread the remaining ⅓ of the batter over the Reese’s cups, ensuring they are fully covered. Use a spatula to smooth the top.
   • Tip: Work carefully to keep the cups in place and ensure even coverage.
4. Bake the Brownies:
   • Bake for 25–30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).
   • Place the baking dish on a wire rack to cool completely, about 20–30 minutes.
   • Tip: Check at 25 minutes to avoid overbaking, as ovens vary.
5. Make the Peanut Butter Frosting:
   • In a large bowl, use an electric hand mixer or stand mixer with the paddle attachment to cream ¾ cup creamy peanut butter and ½ cup softened unsalted butter until smooth, about 1–2 minutes.
   • Gradually add 2¼ cups powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
   • Add 4 tablespoons heavy cream and 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract. Mix on low until combined, then whip on medium-high speed for 2 minutes until light and fluffy.
   • Tip: If the frosting is too thick, add an extra tablespoon of cream; if too thin, add more powdered sugar.
6. Frost the Brownies:
   • Once the brownies are completely cool, use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out of the baking dish.
   • Spread the peanut butter frosting evenly over the top with a spatula or offset knife.
   • Tip: For a smooth finish, dip the spatula in warm water and wipe it clean between spreads.
7. Serve:
   • Slice into 12–16 squares, depending on desired size, and serve immediately.
   • Optional: Garnish with chopped Reese’s, chocolate chips, or a drizzle of melted chocolate for extra decadence.
   • Tip: Wipe the knife clean between cuts for neat squares.

Assembly

Assembling Reese’s Stuffed Brownies is all about layering the components for maximum indulgence. Here’s how to make them look as good as they taste:

• Layer Strategically: Spread a base of brownie batter, arrange Reese’s cups evenly, and cover with more batter to encase the peanut buttery goodness. Top with a generous layer of fluffy frosting for a creamy finish.
• Presentation Tips:
  • Slice into even squares or rectangles and arrange on a platter to show off the frosting and any toppings.
  • Garnish with chopped Reese’s, a sprinkle of sea salt, or a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for a bakery-style look.
  • Serve in colorful paper liners or on dessert plates for parties.
  • Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a glass of cold milk for an extra treat.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Reese’s Stuffed Brownies are best fresh but can be prepped or stored with these tips to keep them delicious:

• Make-Ahead:
  • Prepare the brownie batter and assemble with Reese’s cups up to 4 hours ahead. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready.
  • Make the frosting up to 2 days in advance and store in an airtight container in the fridge. Let it soften at room temperature and re-whip before spreading.
  • Tip: Don’t frost until the brownies are cool to prevent melting.
• Storage:
  • Store frosted brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Let refrigerated brownies sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving for the best texture.
  • Unfrosted brownies can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • Tip: Layer brownies with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Freezing:
  • Freeze unfrosted brownies in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting.
  • Frosted brownies can be frozen for up to 1 month, but the frosting texture may change slightly. Wrap individually for easy thawing.
  • Tip: Slice before freezing for grab-and-go portions.

Recipe Variations

Reese’s Stuffed Brownies are versatile and fun to customize. Here are some creative twists to try:

• Salted Caramel Reese’s Brownies: Drizzle caramel sauce over the frosting and sprinkle with flaky sea salt for a sweet-salty combo.
• Oreo Reese’s Brownies: Add a layer of crushed Oreos over the Reese’s cups before covering with batter for extra crunch.
• Nutella Stuffed Brownies: Swap Reese’s for dollops of Nutella, swirling it into the batter for a hazelnut twist.
• Mint Chocolate Brownies: Use mint-filled chocolate candies instead of Reese’s and add a drop of peppermint extract to the frosting.
• Gluten-Free Reese’s Brownies: Use a gluten-free brownie mix and ensure Reese’s cups are gluten-free (most are).
• Mini Reese’s Brownies: Bake in a muffin tin with mini Reese’s cups for individual brownie bites, reducing baking time to 15–20 minutes.

Conclusion

You’re now ready to bake up a batch of Reese’s Stuffed Brownies that are guaranteed to satisfy any chocolate-peanut butter craving! This 1-hour recipe is perfect for parties, gifting, or indulgent nights in, with fudgy brownies, melty Reese’s cups, and creamy frosting in every bite. Its simplicity and versatility make it a go-to dessert for bakers of all levels. Feel free to add toppings, swap candies, or play with flavors to make it your own. Grab your brownie mix, unwrap those Reese’s, and enjoy every decadent moment. Happy baking, and savor the chocolatey goodness!

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FAQs

1. Can I use a homemade brownie recipe instead of a mix?
Yes! Use a recipe designed for a 9×13 pan, ensuring it’s fudgy rather than cakey. Follow the same layering and baking instructions.

2. Are these brownies healthy?
They’re an indulgent treat, but you can lighten them by using a lower-sugar brownie mix, reducing the frosting’s sugar, or using natural peanut butter. Enjoy in moderation!

3. Can I make these nut-free?
Yes! Replace Reese’s with chocolate truffles or caramel candies and use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter for the frosting.

4. Why are my brownies too gooey?
They may be underbaked. Ensure a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs, not wet batter. Bake longer if needed, checking every 2–3 minutes.

5. Can I use salted butter for the frosting?
Yes, but reduce or omit additional salt in the frosting to avoid it being too salty. Unsalted butter gives better control over flavor.

6. How do I get clean brownie cuts?
Use a sharp knife, wipe it clean between cuts, and dip it in hot water for smoother slices. Chill the brownies briefly for firmer cuts.

7. Can I prep these for a party?
Yes! Bake and frost up to 1 day ahead, storing in the fridge. Add toppings just before serving for a fresh look. Double the recipe for a crowd.

8. What’s the best way to freeze frosted brownies?
Wrap each brownie tightly in plastic wrap, then place in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw in the fridge and bring to room temperature before serving.