Introduction
This Decadent Reese’s Marshmallow Brownies Recipe combines rich chocolate, creamy peanut butter cups, and fluffy marshmallows for an irresistible treat. Simple to make yet incredibly delicious, these brownies are perfect for any occasion. For another fudgy dessert, try these Brownies just got a fall makeover! These Pumpkin Brownies are rich, fudgy and bursting with fall flavor..
Ingredients
These Decadent Reese’s Marshmallow Brownies deliver an incredible textural experience with a gooey marshmallow center, rich chocolate base, and that signature crispy peanut butter-chocolate topping that crackles with every bite.
- 1 box brownie mix (for 9×13 pan) plus ingredients called for on box
- 1 cup marshmallow fluff
- 1 bag Reese’s peanut butter cups, chopped
- 1 1/3 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups crispy rice cereal
Timing
| Prep Time | 25 minutes |
| Cook Time | 35 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour |
Context: These Decadent Reese’s Marshmallow Brownies have four delicious layers with a crispy peanut butter-chocolate topping and come together about 20% faster than similar recipes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 — Prepare the Brownie Base
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. Prepare your favorite boxed brownie mix according to package directions, or use your preferred homemade recipe. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
Step 2 — Bake the Brownie Layer
Bake the brownies for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached. Do not overbake, as the brownies will continue to set as they cool and will be baked again with the marshmallow layer.
Step 3 — Add the Marshmallow Layer
Remove the pan from the oven and immediately sprinkle a 10-ounce bag of mini marshmallows evenly over the hot brownies. Return the pan to the oven for 3-5 minutes, just until the marshmallows are puffy and begin to melt. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Step 4 — Create the Peanut Butter-Chocolate Topping
While the marshmallows are warming, combine 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1 cup of creamy peanut butter, and 1 tablespoon of butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
Step 5 — Spread the Topping
Carefully pour the warm peanut butter-chocolate mixture over the marshmallow layer. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to gently spread it into an even layer, covering the marshmallows completely. Work gently to avoid mixing the layers.
Step 6 — Add the Final Crispy Element
Immediately after spreading the topping, generously sprinkle 1 to 1 ½ cups of chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups over the surface. Press them down lightly so they adhere to the warm, soft topping. This creates the signature crispy, crunchy texture as it sets.
Step 7 — Cool Completely to Set
Allow the pan to cool completely on a wire rack at room temperature. For the best texture and cleanest cuts, chill the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the topping is firm and set. The layers will hold their distinct shape when sliced.
Step 8 — Slice and Serve
Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire block of Decadent Reese’s Marshmallow Brownies out of the pan. Place it on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to slice into squares. For clean cuts, wipe the knife blade clean between slices.
Nutritional Information
| Calories | 380 |
| Protein | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 48g |
| Fat | 19g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 220mg |
Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.
Healthier Alternatives
- Protein powder brownies — Replace half the flour with chocolate protein powder for a boost while keeping the rich flavor.
- Almond flour base — Use almond flour instead of all-purpose for a gluten-free, lower-carb option with a nutty taste.
- Natural peanut butter — Opt for unsweetened natural peanut butter to reduce added sugars and sodium in the peanut butter layer.
- Greek yogurt frosting — Substitute marshmallow cream with Greek yogurt mixed with peanut butter for a protein-rich, lower-sugar topping.
- Dark chocolate chips — Choose sugar-free or high-percentage dark chocolate chips to cut down on sugar while enhancing the chocolate intensity.
- Applesauce for oil — Replace oil with unsweetened applesauce in the brownie batter to reduce fat while maintaining moisture.
- Coconut milk marshmallow — Use dairy-free marshmallow fluff made with coconut milk for a creamy, vegan-friendly alternative.
- Stevia sweetener — Swap granulated sugar with stevia in the brownie mix to lower the carbohydrate content without sacrificing sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a cold glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement the rich chocolate and peanut butter flavors.
- Serve warm at parties or potlucks to highlight the gooey marshmallow layer.
- Enjoy as an indulgent dessert after a casual family dinner or during holiday gatherings.
- Cut into small squares for a bite-sized treat at bake sales or coffee breaks.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of sea salt or crushed Reese’s Pieces for extra texture and visual appeal.
- Plate alongside fresh berries to balance the sweetness with a touch of acidity.
These Decadent Reese’s Marshmallow Brownies have four delicious layers with a crispy peanut butter-chocolate topping, making them perfect for any celebration or cozy night in.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Mistake: Overmixing the brownie batter after adding flour. Fix: Mix just until the flour disappears to maintain a fudgy texture.
- Mistake: Spreading marshmallow layer while brownies are too hot. Fix: Let brownies cool for 10-15 minutes to prevent the marshmallow from melting into the base.
- Mistake: Using cold ingredients for the peanut butter topping. Fix: Ensure butter and peanut butter are at room temperature for a smooth, spreadable consistency.
- Mistake: Baking in a glass pan at the metal pan temperature. Fix: Reduce oven temperature by 25°F if using glass to prevent over-baked edges.
- Mistake: Adding Reese’s pieces too early in baking. Fix: Press candies into the topping after baking to maintain their shape and prevent burning.
- Mistake: Cutting brownies before they are fully set. Fix: Allow the chocolate-peanut butter layers to cool completely for clean slices.
- Mistake: Skipping the parchment paper lining. Fix: Line your pan with parchment for easy removal of all four intact layers.
- Mistake: Not properly measuring flour. Fix: Spoon flour into measuring cup and level for accuracy; too much creates cakey brownies.
- Mistake: Rushing the layering process. Fix: Allow each layer to set slightly before adding the next to maintain distinct textures.
- Mistake: Using expired baking powder. Fix: Test your leavener before starting to ensure proper rise in the brownie base.
Storing Tips
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days; the marshmallow layer stays freshest when chilled.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly or place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave for 10–15 seconds until the chocolate softens, ensuring an internal temperature of at least 165°F for food safety.
Proper storage keeps the layers of these Decadent Reese’s Marshmallow Brownies distinct and the peanut butter-chocolate topping delightfully crispy.
Conclusion
These Decadent Reese’s Marshmallow Brownies are the ultimate treat with their four irresistible layers. We hope you love making and eating them as much as we do! Don’t forget to rate the recipe and leave a comment. For more delicious desserts, try our Magic Brownie Cookies Recipe or Heavenly Black Forest Cheesecake Recipe.
Print
Decadent Reese’s Marshmallow Brownies
These decadent Reese’s Marshmallow Brownies have four delicious layers: a fudgy brownie base, a gooey marshmallow layer, sweet Reese’s peanut butter cups, and a crispy peanut butter-chocolate rice cereal topping.
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 1x
Ingredients
- 1 box brownie mix (for 9x13 pan) plus ingredients called for on box
- 1 cup marshmallow fluff
- 1 bag Reese's peanut butter cups, chopped
- 1 1/3 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups crispy rice cereal
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare brownie mix according to package instructions; bake in a 9×13 inch pan and cool completely.
- Spread marshmallow fluff evenly over cooled brownies.
- Sprinkle chopped Reese's peanut butter cups over the marshmallow layer.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter; microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Stir crispy rice cereal into the melted chocolate mixture until coated.
- Drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter-chocolate cereal mixture over the Reese's layer and spread gently to cover evenly.
- Refrigerate brownies for at least 2 hours to set the topping.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
Using marshmallow fluff instead of marshmallow cream helps avoid baking issues. Refrigerating the brownies after topping ensures the layers set well and makes cutting easier. For best texture, use fresh crispy rice cereal and high-quality peanut butter.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Method: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
FAQs
What are the four layers in these Decadent Reese’s Marshmallow Brownies?
The four delicious layers start with a rich brownie base, followed by a gooey marshmallow layer, a creamy peanut butter spread, and finally a crispy peanut butter-chocolate topping.
How do I get the peanut butter-chocolate topping to be crispy?
To achieve a crispy topping, ensure you melt the peanut butter and chocolate chips together smoothly before spreading. The topping firms up as it cools, creating that signature crisp texture for these Decadent Reese’s Marshmallow Brownies.
Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare these brownies a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep the layers fresh and the topping crisp.
