Chewy REESE'S PIECES Peanut Butter Brownies

These Chewy REESE’S PIECES Peanut Butter Brownies combine the rich, fudgy texture of brownies with the sweet, salty goodness of peanut butter and the fun crunch of REESE’S PIECES. They’re a perfect treat for peanut butter lovers, chocolate enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys an indulgent dessert! With layers of peanut butter, gooey chocolate, and crunchy candy pieces, these brownies are irresistible.

Ingredients:

For the Brownie Batter:

1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp baking powder
1/2 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
1/2 cup REESE’S PIECES (plus extra for topping)
1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional, for extra chocolatey goodness)

For the Peanut Butter Swirl:

1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
2 tbsp powdered sugar

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, or spray it with non-stick cooking spray for easy removal.

2. Make the Brownie Batter:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, and then stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Stir in the peanut butter until smooth, then fold in the REESE’S PIECES and mini chocolate chips (if using).

3. Prepare the Peanut Butter Swirl:

In a small bowl, mix the creamy peanut butter with the powdered sugar until smooth and well combined. The consistency should be thick but spreadable.

4. Assemble the Brownies:

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly.
Drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter mixture on top of the brownie batter. Use a butter knife or toothpick to swirl the peanut butter into the brownie batter, creating a marbled effect.
Sprinkle additional REESE’S PIECES over the top for extra crunch and flavor.

5. Bake the Brownies:

Bake the brownies for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (but not wet batter). The brownies should be firm on the edges and slightly soft in the center.
Let the brownies cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting into squares.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Once cooled, cut the brownies into squares and enjoy the chewy, chocolatey, peanut butter-packed deliciousness!

Tips:

Texture Variations: For a crunchier texture, use crunchy peanut butter in both the batter and the swirl.
Make Ahead: These brownies can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll keep for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the brownies for up to a month. Wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Serving Suggestions: Serve these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of hot fudge for an extra indulgent treat!