If you have a serious sweet tooth and love the comforting combo of chocolate and peanut butter, this Peanut Butter Krispie Brownies Recipe is going to be your new obsession. It takes classic brownies up a notch by layering fluffy marshmallow creme and a luscious peanut butter-chocolate mixture loaded with crispy Rice Krispies for that perfect crunch. Every bite marries gooey, rich, and crunchy textures into a dessert that’s as fun to eat as it is delicious. Trust me, once you make this treat, it’s going to be a star in your baking rotation, delightful for parties or anytime you want a cozy, indulgent pick-me-up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for a handful of pantry staples that each play an important role in creating layers of flavor and texture. The brownie mix provides the rich base, the marshmallow creme adds a pillowy sweetness, and the peanut butter-chocolate blend gives the crispy topping that addictive finish.
- Brownie mix: Choose your favorite boxed mix to simplify the process while delivering that fudgy brownie foundation.
- Marshmallow creme: This spreads easily and creates a soft, sweet layer that perfectly balances the rich peanut butter topping.
- Creamy peanut butter: Use smooth for easy melting and that unmistakable nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: These bring a nice bittersweet depth and melty texture when combined with peanut butter.
- Rice Krispie cereal: Adds the crisp crunch that elevates each bite, making the brownies delightfully moreish.
How to Make Peanut Butter Krispie Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prep the pan and bake the brownies
Start by lining a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang to make lifting the brownies easier later on. Prepare the brownie mix as per the package instructions and bake until set. Once they’re fully cooled, they are ready for their decadent layers.
Step 2: Spread the marshmallow creme
Evenly spread the marshmallow creme over the cooled brownie layer. This sticky sweetness serves as the bridge between the rich brownie base and the crunchy peanut butter topping, adding that signature gooey texture.
Step 3: Melt the peanut butter and chocolate chips
In a medium saucepan on low heat, gently melt the peanut butter alongside the semi-sweet chocolate chips, stirring frequently to create a smooth, velvety mixture. This gooey blend is the crowning glory of the Peanut Butter Krispie Brownies Recipe.
Step 4: Stir in the Rice Krispies
Remove the melted mixture from heat and fold in the Rice Krispie cereal carefully, making sure each crispy piece is coated well but still stays crunchy to provide that irresistible texture contrast.
Step 5: Spread the peanut butter Krispie topping
Spread this mixture evenly over the marshmallow layer. Once you’ve covered it completely, pop the pan in the fridge to chill and let everything set firmly before slicing.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Krispie Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, sprinkle some chopped peanuts or drizzle melted white chocolate on top. This not only amps up the presentation but adds an extra layer of flavor to these decadent treats.
Side Dishes
Serve these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh berries. The cold creaminess or the tartness of fruit complements the rich peanut butter and chocolate notes perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
You can cut the brownies into bite-sized squares for a party platter or stack them to create mini brownie towers tied with a ribbon for a fun gift idea. Using colorful cupcake liners or decorating plates with a dusting of cocoa powder helps make these treats look as good as they taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any remaining Peanut Butter Krispie Brownies Recipe squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain freshness and that crisp texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the brownies by wrapping each piece individually in plastic wrap followed by foil, then placing them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
If you like your brownies a bit warm, microwave single servings for 10 to 15 seconds, or heat them gently in a low oven. The peanut butter topping melts slightly, bringing out even more intense flavor.
FAQs
Can I use homemade brownies instead of boxed mix?
Absolutely! Homemade brownies work wonderfully if you prefer from-scratch baking. Just make sure they’re fully cooled before spreading the marshmallow creme so everything layers beautifully.
Is there a substitute for marshmallow creme?
You can try using softened marshmallows that are melted down or even a thick layer of frosting, but marshmallow creme gives the best texture and sweetness for this recipe.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes, crunchy peanut butter adds an extra nutty texture to the topping, but it might be slightly harder to melt smoothly. If you prefer crunch inside, it’s a fun twist!
What type of chocolate chips work best?
Semi-sweet chocolate chips are ideal as they provide a nice balance to the sweet marshmallow and peanut butter. You could try milk chocolate for a sweeter taste or dark chocolate for more intensity.
Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, ensure the brownie mix and Rice Krispies cereal you use are certified gluten-free. Most marshmallow cremes and peanut butter are naturally gluten-free, so it’s mostly about the base ingredients.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Peanut Butter Krispie Brownies Recipe. It’s a joyful explosion of flavors and textures that’s simple to make but impressive in taste. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just craving something special, these brownies hit all the right notes with peanut butter and chocolate lovers alike. Give it a try, and I bet this recipe will become one of your cherished go-to treats for years to come!
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Peanut Butter Krispie Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 18 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Peanut Butter Krispie Brownies combine the chewy, rich texture of classic brownies with a gooey marshmallow layer and a crispy peanut butter-chocolate topping. The creation is a delightful mix of fudgy, creamy, and crunchy textures, perfect for parties or a sweet treat any time.
Ingredients
Brownie Layer
- 1 (18-oz) package brownie mix (including ingredients needed to prepare cake-like brownies as per package instructions)
Marshmallow Layer
- 1 (7-oz) jar marshmallow creme
Peanut Butter Krispie Topping
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 (12-oz) package semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 4 cups Rice Krispie cereal
Instructions
- Prepare Pan. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a few inches of overhang on the sides to help lift the brownies out easily after baking.
- Make Brownies. Prepare the brownie batter according to the package directions to achieve cake-like brownies. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake as instructed. Let the brownies cool completely to room temperature.
- Spread Marshmallow Layer. Once the brownies have cooled, evenly spread the entire jar of marshmallow creme over the top to create a gooey layer.
- Melt Peanut Butter and Chocolate. In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the peanut butter and semi-sweet chocolate chips. Stir continuously until melted and smooth, making sure the mixture doesn’t burn.
- Add Rice Krispies. Remove the saucepan from heat, then gently fold in the Rice Krispie cereal until well-coated with the peanut butter-chocolate mixture.
- Top the Brownies. Spread this peanut butter Krispie mixture evenly over the marshmallow layer on the brownies.
- Chill and Serve. Cover the pan and refrigerate until set, preferably for at least 1 hour. Once firm, lift the brownies out using the parchment overhang and cut into 18 squares to serve.
Notes
- Use cake-like brownie instructions on the package for best texture and structure.
- Make sure brownies are fully cooled before spreading marshmallow creme to prevent it from melting.
- Stir the peanut butter and chocolate gently over low heat to avoid burning and ensure smooth melting.
- Chilling helps the topping set firmly for easier slicing.
- You can substitute crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
