Indulging in a rich and decadent dessert can turn an ordinary day into a special occasion, and what better way to satisfy that sweet tooth than with Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Brownies? These delightful squares are the perfect harmony of flavors and textures, featuring a luscious brownie base topped with creamy marshmallow and an irresistible chocolate-peanut butter crunch. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these brownies promise to delight every dessert lover.

The foundation of these brownies is made from Ghirardelli brownie mix, ensuring a moist and chocolatey experience with every bite. The smooth marshmallow cream adds a sweet layer that perfectly balances out the richness of the chocolate and peanut butter topping. Each square crunches delightfully thanks to the Rice Krispies cereal, making the experience even more enjoyable. Easy to prepare and utterly satisfying, these brownies are a go-to recipe for any home baker who appreciates a delicious treat.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Brownies

Decadent Flavor Combination: The pairing of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter creates an indulgent treat that no one can resist.
Fun Texture: With layers that offer both softness and crunch, these brownies provide a delightful eating experience.
Quick Preparation: Using a brownie mix streamlines the process, making these brownies accessible to bakers of all skill levels.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party, potluck, or just a cozy night in, these brownies are sure to please all ages.
Customizable: You can easily switch up ingredients, such as using crunchy peanut butter for added texture.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you start baking your Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Brownies, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen properly. Gather the necessary tools, including a large mixing bowl, a heatproof bowl for melting chocolate, a spatula for spreading the marshmallow cream, and an 8×8 inch baking pan lined with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the brownies once baked. Ensure your workspace is clean and organized, as a tidy area can make the baking experience much smoother.

Preheat your oven according to the brownie mix instructions while preparing the rest of your ingredients. Having everything ready will help streamline the cooking process. Be sure to have measuring utensils on hand, as precision is key when working with both brownie and topping ingredients.

Ingredients

1 box Ghirardelli brownie mix, prepared as per package instructions
198 grams marshmallow cream
340 grams chocolate chips
385 grams smooth peanut butter
150 grams Rice Krispies cereal

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Base

Start by preheating the oven as directed on the Ghirardelli brownie mix box. Prepare the brownie batter according to the instructions, ensuring you mix it thoroughly for a smooth consistency. Pour the batter into your lined baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake the brownies in the preheated oven, following the timing suggested by the package. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the brownies to cool completely in the tin; this step is crucial as adding the marshmallow layer on warm brownies can lead to a gooey mess.

Step 2: Add the Marshmallow Layer

After the brownies have cooled, take a spatula and gently spread the marshmallow cream over the entire surface of the brownies. Ensure that the marshmallow cream is evenly distributed, as this will serve as the sweet, creamy layer that connects the brownie base with the chocolate-peanut butter crunch topping. The marshmallow cream should be smooth and glossy, providing a deliciously sweet undertone to your brownies.

Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Peanut Butter Mixture

In a heatproof bowl, place the chocolate chips and microwave them for 30 seconds. Stir the chocolate to check for melting, then return it to the microwave in 10-second increments, stirring in between each until you achieve a fully melted and smooth consistency. Once the chocolate is melted, mix in the smooth peanut butter. Stir until the mixture becomes fully incorporated, showcasing a beautiful, glossy finish.

Step 4: Combine with Rice Krispies

In a large mixing bowl, pour the Rice Krispies cereal. Carefully drizzle the melted chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the cereal, ensuring that each piece gets coated well. Use a spatula or spoon to fold the mixture gently, allowing the crunchies to absorb the chocolate and peanut butter flavors without breaking them.

Step 5: Assemble and Set

Next, distribute the chocolate-peanut butter Rice Krispies mixture evenly over the marshmallow layer. Use the spatula to smooth out the topping. Once it’s evenly spread, you can press it down lightly to secure the topping in place. The last step is to transfer the pan to the refrigerator and allow it to chill for at least two hours. This will set the topping, making it firm and easy to slice.

Variations

Protein: Substitute smooth peanut butter with crunchy peanut butter for extra texture and flavor.
Vegetables: Consider mixing in shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
Spices: Add a pinch of sea salt to the melted chocolate for a wonderful contrast to the sweetness.

Cooking Notes

Allow the brownies to cool completely before adding the marshmallow cream layer to prevent melting.
If you don’t have marshmallow cream, you can use mini marshmallows instead, just increase the baking time slightly, until they are toasted and golden.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert duo.
Pair them with fresh berries to cut through some of the richness.

Tips

For best results, use quality chocolate chips as they make a difference in taste.
Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 250
Protein: 4g
Sodium: 150mg
Sugar: 18g
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g

FAQs

Can I use another type of brownie mix?

Absolutely! You can substitute Ghirardelli for any other brand you prefer, though it’s best to adhere to similar instructions for optimal results.

How should I store the brownies?

Store the brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should last about a week, but they are best enjoyed fresh.

Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes, you can freeze these brownies! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They should be good for up to three months.

What can I do with leftover marshmallow cream?

Leftover marshmallow cream can be used in baking, added to hot chocolate, or spread on toast for a sweet treat.

Conclusion

Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Brownies are more than just a dessert; they are a moment of joy wrapped in rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter goodness. With a simple preparation process paired with layers of flavor and texture, they are bound to steal the spotlight at any table. Whether you choose to indulge on your own or share them with loved ones, these brownies are sure to leave sweet memories! Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations and find your perfect twist; comment below and share your delicious adaptations!