Peanut Butter Cup Crunch Brownies Recipe

Brownie mix: The base of our dessert, providing a rich and fudgy texture.

Eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients and adding moisture.

Vegetable oil: Adds moisture and helps create a tender crumb.

Water: Combines with the mix to create the batter.

Creamy peanut butter: Adds a rich, nutty flavor and creamy texture.

Rice krispies: Provides a delightful crunch to the topping.

Chocolate chips: Melts into the peanut butter to create a smooth, chocolatey topping.

Chopped peanut butter cups: Adds an extra layer of peanut butter flavor and texture.

When melting the peanut butter and chocolate chips together, use short intervals in the microwave, stirring every 15-20 seconds to prevent scorching. This ensures a smooth and creamy mixture that will blend well with the rice krispies.

• family size brownie mix - Substitute with homemade brownie mix: You can make your own brownie mix using flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt for a more personalized flavor.

• large eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg and let it sit for a few minutes. This is a great vegan alternative.

• vegetable oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can add a subtle coconut flavor and is a healthier fat option.

• water - Substitute with milk: Using milk instead of water can make the brownies richer and more flavorful.

• creamy peanut butter - Substitute with almond butter: Almond butter provides a different nutty flavor and is a good alternative for those with peanut allergies.

• rice krispies - Substitute with crushed cornflakes: Crushed cornflakes can provide a similar crunchy texture if you don't have rice krispies on hand.

• chocolate chips - Substitute with carob chips: Carob chips are a caffeine-free alternative to chocolate chips and can be used for those avoiding chocolate.

• chopped peanut butter cups - Substitute with chopped chocolate-covered almonds: These can provide a similar texture and flavor profile while offering a different nutty twist.

• Allow the brownies to cool completely at room temperature. This ensures that the toppings set properly and the texture remains perfect.

• Once cooled, cut the brownies into squares using a sharp knife. For cleaner cuts, you can wipe the knife with a damp cloth between slices.

• Place the brownie squares in an airtight container. If stacking, place a sheet of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

• Store the container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps the brownies soft and chewy.

• For longer storage, place the airtight container in the refrigerator. This will keep the brownies fresh for up to a week. Remember to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

• To freeze, wrap each brownie square individually in plastic wrap. This prevents freezer burn and maintains freshness.

• Place the wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of storage time.

• Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the brownies at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.

• For a quick treat, you can microwave a frozen brownie for 15-20 seconds. This will give you a warm, gooey dessert in no time!

• Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the leftover brownies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the peanut butter and chocolate topping from burning. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This method ensures the brownies stay moist and the crunchy topping remains crisp.

• For a quicker method, use a microwave. Place a single brownie on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Check if it's warm enough; if not, continue in 10-second intervals. Be cautious not to overheat, as the chocolate and peanut butter can become too melty.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 300°F (150°C). Place the brownies in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overlapping. Heat for 3-5 minutes. This method helps maintain the crunchy rice krispies texture while warming the brownies evenly.

• For a stovetop method, use a double boiler. Fill a saucepan with a small amount of water and bring it to a simmer. Place a heatproof bowl over the saucepan, ensuring the bottom of the bowl does not touch the water. Place the brownies in the bowl and cover it with a lid. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. This gentle heating method helps preserve the brownies' texture and flavor.

• If you prefer a toaster oven, preheat it to 300°F (150°C). Place the brownies on a piece of aluminum foil or a small baking tray. Heat for 5-10 minutes, checking frequently to avoid burning. This method is great for small batches and ensures the peanut butter and chocolate topping stays intact.

• Oven: Used to bake the brownies at the specified temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Mixing bowl: Needed to prepare the brownie mix by combining the ingredients.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the vegetable oil, water, peanut butter, rice krispies, and chocolate chips.

• Measuring spoons: Useful for measuring smaller quantities, such as the ¼ cup of water.

• Whisk: Helps in mixing the brownie batter to ensure a smooth consistency.

• Microwave-safe bowl: Used to melt the peanut butter and chocolate chips together safely in the microwave.

• Microwave: Required to melt the peanut butter and chocolate chips.

• Spatula: Handy for stirring the melted peanut butter and chocolate chips with the rice krispies, and for spreading the mixture over the brownies.

• Baking pan: The container in which the brownie batter is poured and baked.

• Cooking spray: Used to grease the baking pan to prevent the brownies from sticking.

• Knife: Needed to chop the peanut butter cups into smaller pieces.

• Cooling rack: Allows the brownies to cool completely before cutting into squares.

• Cutting board: Provides a surface for chopping the peanut butter cups.

• Oven mitts: Protects your hands when handling the hot baking pan from the oven.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all ingredients before starting to streamline the process.

Use microwave: Melt peanut butter and chocolate chips in the microwave to save time.

Line the pan: Line your baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and less cleanup.

Chop ahead: Chop peanut butter cups while the brownies are baking.

Cool quickly: Place the baking pan on a wire rack to cool faster.