If you are searching for a treat that marries the rich decadence of chocolate with the irresistible creaminess and crunch of peanut butter, the Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Brownies Recipe is here to delight your taste buds. This recipe balances fudgy brownies with a fluffy marshmallow layer and a crispy, chocolaty-peanut butter topping that truly elevates every bite. It’s the kind of dessert that you’ll want to share with friends and family but may find yourself sneaking a square or two in secret. Prepare to fall in love with this beautiful harmony of flavors and textures that make these brownies stand out in the best possible way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Brownies Recipe comes from its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Every item works harmoniously, offering a perfect blend of softness, creaminess, and that signature crunch that makes this treat unforgettable.
- Ghirardelli brownie mix: Rich and fudgy brownies are the foundation, providing a deep chocolate flavor and moist texture.
- Marshmallow cream: Adds a soft, sweet layer that contrasts delightfully against the dense brownie base.
- Chocolate chips: When melted, create a smooth, luscious layer that perfectly pairs with peanut butter.
- Smooth peanut butter: Brings creamy, nutty richness and binds the crunchy topping together.
- Rice Krispies cereal: Delivers that essential crunch that makes these brownies uniquely fun and texturally exciting.
How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Brownie Base
Begin your journey by preheating the oven and following the package instructions to prepare the Ghirardelli brownie mix. This step sets the robust chocolate foundation for your brownies, ensuring they’ll be perfectly moist and fudgy. Once baked, allow the brownies to cool completely in the tin – this is important for the layers to hold nicely later on.
Step 2: Spread the Marshmallow Cream
With the brownie base fully cooled, take a spatula and gently spread an even layer of marshmallow cream over the surface. This layer provides a cloud-like softness that complements the dense brownie below, adding sweetness and an interesting texture contrast.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate Chips
Place your chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl and microwave them in short bursts, stirring often until smooth and glossy. This silky chocolate will be the foundation of the delicious peanut butter crunch topping, so take your time and ensure it melts evenly.
Step 4: Combine Peanut Butter and Chocolate
Now, stir the smooth peanut butter into the melted chocolate until fully incorporated and shiny. This mixture blends creamy, nutty richness with the chocolate’s depth, creating a flavor duo that’s hard to resist.
Step 5: Coat the Rice Krispies
Pour the chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the Rice Krispies in a large bowl. Stir gently but thoroughly so every crisp piece is coated with the luscious mixture. This step is crucial because it guarantees each bite of topping delivers both crunch and flavor.
Step 6: Spread the Crunchy Topping
Evenly distribute the chocolate peanut butter Rice Krispie mixture over the marshmallow layer on the brownies. Use a spatula to smooth the top carefully, creating an inviting, textured finish that will harden into a satisfyingly crisp topping.
Step 7: Chill Until Set
Transfer your pan to the refrigerator and chill it for at least 2 hours. This chilling stage lets the topping set firmly, making it easier to slice and enjoy without the layers sliding around.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
Once chilled and set, remove your brownies from the fridge. Use a sharp knife to slice them into 12 generous squares. Serve these beauties and get ready to hear all the compliments serendipitously rolling in for your homemade masterpiece!
How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance the visual appeal and flavor by sprinkling a few sea salt flakes atop each brownie square or adding a light dusting of cocoa powder. A drizzle of melted chocolate or an extra dollop of peanut butter can also elevate the experience, turning these treats into true showstoppers.
Side Dishes
Pair these brownies with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a cup of rich espresso for a delightful contrast. Fresh berries or a simple fruit compote can add a refreshing balance to the indulgent sweetness, making the overall dessert feel even more special.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Brownies Recipe on a rustic wooden board or a bright ceramic platter to contrast the dark chocolate tones beautifully. Consider stacking the squares in a pyramid for casual gatherings or arranging them neatly in individual mini dessert cups for a more elegant touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain freshness. The topping may soften slightly over time but will still retain its irresistible flavor and texture.
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag. Freeze for up to two months. Thaw them gently at room temperature before serving to preserve the best taste and texture.
Reheating
If you prefer your brownies slightly warm, microwave a single piece for about 10-15 seconds, but avoid overheating to keep the crunch intact. Enjoying them chilled or at room temperature showcases the textural contrasts most effectively.
FAQs
Can I make these brownies without using a boxed mix?
Absolutely! You can use your favorite homemade brownie recipe as the base for this Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Brownies Recipe. Just ensure the brownies are fully cooled before proceeding with the layers.
What if I don’t have marshmallow cream on hand?
Marshmallow fluff is key for the soft, sweet layer in this recipe, but you could try using mini marshmallows melted gently into a spreadable form. Keep in mind the texture may vary slightly.
Can I substitute crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?
While smooth peanut butter helps create a cohesive topping, using crunchy peanut butter will add extra texture and nutty bits that some may find delightful. It’s a fun twist if you love extra crunch.
Is it possible to use a different cereal instead of Rice Krispies?
Rice Krispies are preferred for their light crispiness, but you could experiment with other cereals like cornflakes or even crushed pretzels to tweak the flavor profile and crunch level.
How far in advance can I prepare these brownies?
This recipe is perfect for making a day ahead. After chilling them thoroughly, keep them refrigerated and bring to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
Final Thoughts
There is something so special about a dessert that combines familiar flavors with an unexpected textural twist, and the Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Brownies Recipe does exactly that. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a sweet treat, this recipe promises satisfaction in every bite. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll quickly become one of your favorite go-to desserts to impress both yourself and anyone lucky enough to share them with you. Go ahead, bake a batch – your dessert game will thank you!
Print
Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours (including chilling time)
- Yield: 12 squares
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Decadent and crunchy Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Brownies featuring a fudgy Ghirardelli brownie base topped with a smooth layer of marshmallow cream and a crispy chocolate-peanut butter Rice Krispies topping. This dessert combines rich, creamy, and crunchy textures for a delightful treat perfect for gatherings or satisfying sweet cravings.
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 1 box Ghirardelli brownie mix, prepared as per package instructions
Topping
- 198 grams marshmallow cream
- 340 grams chocolate chips
- 385 grams smooth peanut butter
- 150 grams Rice Krispies cereal
Instructions
- Prepare and Bake Brownies: Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the Ghirardelli brownie mix box. Prepare the brownie batter following the package directions, pour into a baking tin, and bake as instructed. Once baked, allow it to cool completely in the tin to ensure the topping layers set nicely.
- Spread Marshmallow Layer: After the brownies have cooled, use a spatula to gently spread 198 grams of marshmallow cream evenly over the surface, creating a smooth and sticky base for the topping.
- Melt Chocolate Chips: Place 340 grams of chocolate chips into a heatproof bowl and microwave for 30 seconds. Stir thoroughly, then continue microwaving in 10-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth without any lumps.
- Combine Peanut Butter and Chocolate: Add 385 grams of smooth peanut butter to the melted chocolate and stir until the mixture is fully combined and glossy, creating a rich and creamy coating for the cereal.
- Coat Rice Krispies: Transfer 150 grams of Rice Krispies cereal into a large mixing bowl. Pour the chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the cereal and stir well, ensuring every piece is thoroughly coated for maximum crunch and flavor.
- Assemble the Topping: Evenly spread the chocolate-peanut butter-coated Rice Krispies mixture over the marshmallow layer on the brownies. Use a spatula to smooth and press the topping gently for an even finish.
- Chill to Set: Place the assembled brownies in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours. This allows the topping to firm up and set perfectly for clean slicing.
- Slice and Serve: Remove the pan from the refrigerator, carefully slice into 12 squares using a sharp knife, and serve for a satisfying crunchy chocolaty peanut butter treat.
Notes
- Ensure the brownie base is completely cooled before spreading the marshmallow cream to prevent melting or mixing layers.
- You can substitute smooth peanut butter with natural peanut butter, but textures may differ slightly.
- Microwave chocolate carefully in short intervals to avoid burning.
- Refrigeration is essential to help the topping set firmly for neat slicing.
- Store leftover brownies in the refrigerator in an airtight container to maintain freshness and texture.
