Description

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.

Ingredients

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.

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Instructions

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.