You’re about to embark on a journey to brownie heaven, where chocolate and peanut butter collide in the most delicious way possible. These Reese’s Stuffed Brownies are not just any brownies; they’re a decadent, gooey, peanut buttery masterpiece that will have everyone begging for the recipe.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of rich chocolate brownies and creamy peanut butter cups creates a perfect balance of flavors.
- Using melted butter in the brownie batter ensures a fudgy texture that’s irresistible.
- Stuffing the brownies with Reese’s cups adds a surprise element that elevates the entire dessert.
- This recipe is straightforward, requiring no fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion, from potlucks to birthday parties.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 12 Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, mini size
Equipment Needed
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Parchment paper
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line your baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. This step is crucial for ensuring your brownies don’t stick and come out perfectly every time.
Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. This creates a smooth, homogenous batter that’s the foundation of your brownies.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough brownies, so stop as soon as you no longer see streaks of flour.
Layer and Stuff
Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Place the Reese’s cups in a single layer over the batter, then cover with the remaining batter. This sandwich technique ensures every bite has a peanut butter surprise.
Bake to Perfection
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. The key here is not to overbake; the brownies will continue to set as they cool, resulting in that perfect fudgy texture.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra gooey center, slightly underbake the brownies by reducing the baking time by 2-3 minutes. If you’re a fan of crunchy peanut butter, try using Reese’s Pieces instead of the cups for a different texture. To make these brownies even more decadent, drizzle melted peanut butter and chocolate over the top before serving. Always let the brownies cool completely before cutting to ensure clean, sharp edges. For a fun twist, add a pinch of espresso powder to the dry ingredients to enhance the chocolate flavor without making it taste like coffee.
Recipe Variations
- Swap out Reese’s cups for other candy like Snickers or Milky Way for a different flavor profile.
- Add a layer of caramel sauce between the brownie layers for a sweet, gooey addition.
- Mix in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
- Use white chocolate chips in the batter for a sweeter, creamier brownie.
- For a festive touch, use holiday-themed Reese’s cups like the hearts for Valentine’s Day or pumpkins for Halloween.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different size Reese’s cup?
Absolutely! While mini Reese’s cups are recommended for even distribution, you can use regular-sized cups cut in half. Just ensure they’re evenly spaced to guarantee every slice has a peanut butter center.
How do I store these brownies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature before serving.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it’s a 1:1 substitute to ensure the texture remains the same.
Summary
These Reese’s Stuffed Brownies are the ultimate treat for chocolate and peanut butter lovers. Easy to make and impossible to resist, they’re sure to become a new favorite in your dessert repertoire.
