Introduction
Reeses Brownies are the ultimate indulgence for anyone who loves the iconic combination of chocolate and peanut butter. These decadent treats take traditional brownies to the next level by incorporating the beloved Reese’s peanut butter cups into a fudgy, rich brownie base. If you’re a fan of Reese’s Pieces Cookies but want to try something equally delicious yet different, these brownies are your next must-make dessert. The magic happens when the peanut butter cups melt slightly during baking, creating pockets of creamy peanut butter goodness throughout the chocolatey base.
Nutritional Benefits
While Reeses Brownies are definitely a treat to be enjoyed in moderation, they do offer some nutritional benefits. The peanut butter component provides protein and healthy fats, while dark chocolate (if used) contains antioxidants. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect nutritionally from one serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 38g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 25g |
| Calcium | 40mg |
| Iron | 1.8mg |
Ingredients & Substitutions
Creating the perfect Reeses Brownies requires quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need and possible alternatives:
| Ingredient | Role | Possible Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| 1 cup unsalted butter | Provides richness and moisture | Coconut oil, vegetable oil |
| 2 cups granulated sugar | Sweetener and texture | Brown sugar, coconut sugar |
| 4 large eggs | Structure and binding | Flax eggs (for vegan option) |
| 1 tbsp vanilla extract | Flavor enhancer | Almond extract |
| 1 cup all-purpose flour | Structure | Gluten-free flour blend, almond flour |
| 1 cup cocoa powder | Chocolate flavor | Dark cocoa powder |
| 1/2 tsp salt | Flavor enhancer | Sea salt |
| 2 cups chopped Reese’s cups | Main flavor component | Homemade peanut butter cups, chocolate chips + peanut butter swirl |
| 1/2 cup Reese’s Pieces | Topping and texture | Peanut butter chips, mini chocolate chips |
Equipment Needed
– 9×13 inch baking pan
– Parchment paper
– Mixing bowls (large and medium)
– Electric mixer (stand or hand mixer)
– Rubber spatula
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Whisk
– Cooling rack
– Sharp knife for cutting
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal.
2. Make the brownie batter: In a large mixing bowl, melt the butter and let it cool slightly. Add the sugar and whisk until well combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
3. Add dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, folding gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Add Reese’s cups: Gently fold in 1½ cups of the chopped Reeses Brownies mix-ins, saving the remaining ½ cup for topping.
5. Pour and top: Transfer the batter to your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining chopped Reese’s cups and Reese’s Pieces Cookies pieces on top, pressing them lightly into the batter.
6. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).
7. Cool: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before lifting out using the parchment paper overhang.
8. Cut and serve: Use a sharp knife to cut into squares. For cleaner cuts, refrigerate the brownies for 30 minutes before cutting.
Troubleshooting & Pro Tips
– For fudgier brownies: Reduce the baking time by 2-3 minutes. Remember that brownies continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven.
– For cakey brownies: Add an additional egg to the batter.
– Preventing dry brownies: Don’t overbake! It’s better to underbake slightly than overbake.
– Even distribution: Chop the Reese’s cups into different sizes – some larger pieces create pockets of peanut butter goodness.
– Clean cutting: Use a plastic knife or wipe your sharp knife clean between cuts for cleaner edges.
– Elevation concerns: At high altitudes, add an extra 2 tablespoons of flour to the recipe.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
– Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
– Refrigerator: Keep for up to 1 week in an airtight container.
– Freezer: Wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.
– Make-ahead option: Prepare the brownie batter up to 24 hours in advance and store in the refrigerator. Bring to room temperature before baking.
– Reheating: Microwave refrigerated brownies for 15-20 seconds for that fresh-baked taste and to soften the Reese’s pieces.
Conclusion
Reeses Brownies are the perfect marriage of rich chocolate brownie base and the beloved peanut butter cup flavor that everyone adores. They’re ideal for parties, potlucks, or simply as a special treat for yourself. The beauty of these brownies is their versatility – you can customize them by adding more or fewer Reese’s Pieces Cookies elements depending on your preference for peanut butter intensity. Remember that the key to perfect brownies is in the timing – it’s always better to slightly underbake than overbake for that perfect fudgy texture.
FAQ
Q: Can I use natural peanut butter instead of Reese’s cups?
A: Yes, you can swirl 1/2 cup of natural peanut butter into the batter before baking. However, the iconic Reese’s flavor comes from their specific peanut butter blend.
Q: How do I know when the brownies are done?
A: Insert a toothpick in the center – it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter. The edges should be set but the middle can still be slightly soft.
Q: Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just check that your Reese’s products are also gluten-free.
Q: Why did my Reese’s cups sink to the bottom?
A: Try tossing the chopped Reese’s cups in a tablespoon of flour before folding them into the batter. This helps prevent sinking.
Q: Can I use a boxed brownie mix as a shortcut?
A: Yes! Prepare the boxed mix according to package directions and fold in the chopped Reese’s cups before baking.
Follow me on Pinterest for more Reeses Brownies and don’t forget to check out my recipe for Home Made Reese Cups that will satisfy your chocolate-peanut butter cravings any time of year.
