If you’re a fan of chocolate and peanut butter, then you’re in for a treat with these Brownie Peanut Butter Cup Surprises. Imagine biting into a rich, fudgy brownie to discover a gooey mini Reese’s peanut butter cup hidden inside. This delightful combination takes your classic brownie mix to the next level, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a sweet treat to enjoy at home, or simply want to impress your friends and family, these Brownie Peanut Butter Cup Surprises are sure to be a hit. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make using just a box of brownie mix, eggs, oil, and mini Reese’s cups!
What Sets This Recipe Apart
This recipe stands out for its simplicity and the delightful surprise that awaits inside each brownie. The use of a boxed brownie mix means less time measuring and more time indulging, making it an ideal choice for busy bakers. The addition of mini Reese’s peanut butter cups elevates these brownies, combining the rich, chocolatey flavor with creamy peanut butter in every bite. Each brownie is not just a dessert; it’s an experience that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.
Ingredients at a Glance
To make these delicious Brownie Peanut Butter Cup Surprises, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 box of brownie mix (choose your favorite brand)
- Eggs (use the amount called for on the brownie mix box)
- Oil (use the amount called for on the brownie mix box)
- 1 package of mini Reese’s peanut butter cups, unwrapped
Make sure to check the brownie mix instructions for the specific amounts of eggs and oil required, as they can vary by brand.
Recommended Tools
Before you start baking, gather the following tools to make your process smoother:
- Mixing bowl: For combining your brownie mix, eggs, and oil.
- Measuring cups: To ensure you have the right amount of oil and eggs.
- Baking pan: A 9×9 inch pan works perfectly for this recipe.
- Spatula: For spreading the brownie batter evenly in the pan.
- Oven mitts: Safety first when handling hot pans!
Brownie Peanut Butter Cup Surprises, Made Easy
Ready to dive into the baking process? Follow these simple steps to create your Brownie Peanut Butter Cup Surprises:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your brownies will bake evenly and come out perfectly fudgy.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
Lightly grease your 9×9 inch baking pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.
Step 3: Mix the Brownie Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine the brownie mix with the eggs and oil according to the package directions. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix for that perfect fudgy texture.
Step 4: Layer the Brownie Batter
Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly across the bottom.
Step 5: Add the Peanut Butter Cups
Place the unwrapped mini Reese’s peanut butter cups evenly over the brownie batter. You can arrange them in rows, or scatter them randomly for a fun surprise!
Step 6: Top with Remaining Batter
Spoon the remaining brownie batter over the peanut butter cups, making sure to cover them completely. This will create that delicious hidden surprise when you take a bite!
Step 7: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake; you want them to stay fudgy!
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting into squares.
Make It Year-Round
These Brownie Peanut Butter Cup Surprises are not just for special occasions. Here are a few ways to make them year-round favorites:
- Seasonal Toppings: Swap out the mini Reese’s for seasonal candies like peppermint bark during the holidays or fruity candies for summer.
- Custom Brownie Mix: Experiment with different brownie mixes or even make your own from scratch for a more personalized touch.
- Festive Sprinkles: Add colorful sprinkles on top of the brownies before baking for a fun twist on birthdays or celebrations.
- Ice Cream Pairing: Serve warm brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert any time of year!
Problems & Prevention
While making Brownie Peanut Butter Cup Surprises is straightforward, here are some common issues and how to avoid them:
- Brownies are dry: Ensure you don’t overbake them. Start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time.
- Peanut butter cups sink: To prevent this, ensure your brownie batter is thick enough when layering the peanut butter cups.
- Uneven baking: Rotate your pan halfway through baking to ensure even heat distribution.
Cooling, Storing & Rewarming
Proper cooling and storage will keep your Brownie Peanut Butter Cup Surprises fresh and tasty:
Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting. Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them, where they can last up to a week. If you want to enjoy them warm again, simply microwave a piece for about 10-15 seconds.
Ask the Chef
Can I use a different type of candy besides Reese’s cups?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different candies like caramel-filled chocolates, chocolate-covered pretzels, or even white chocolate chips for a unique twist.
What if I don’t have a 9×9 inch pan?
You can use an 8×8 inch or a 9×13 inch pan. Just adjust the baking time slightly, as thinner brownies will cook faster, and thicker ones will take a bit longer.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use a gluten-free brownie mix and follow the same instructions. You’ll still get that delicious, fudgy texture!
How can I make these brownies even more decadent?
Top your brownies with a drizzle of melted chocolate or a sprinkle of sea salt before serving for an extra layer of flavor!
Healthy-ish Favorites
If you’re looking for healthier dessert options, check out these recipes:
Ready, Set, Cook
Now that you have all the details to make your Brownie Peanut Butter Cup Surprises, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get baking! These brownies are not just a treat; they’re an experience that brings smiles to faces young and old. With their rich chocolate flavor and hidden peanut butter cup surprise, they are bound to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to share with friends and family—if you can resist eating them all yourself!
Brownie Peanut Butter Cup Surprises
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Measuring Cups
- 9x9-inch baking pan
- Spatula
- Oven mitts
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 box brownie mix choose your favorite brand
- eggs use the amount called for on the brownie mix box
- oil use the amount called for on the brownie mix box
- 1 package mini Reese’s peanut butter cups unwrapped
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking and fudgy brownies.
- Lightly grease a 9x9 inch baking pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Make Brownie Batter
- In a mixing bowl, combine the brownie mix with the eggs and oil according to the package directions. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Assemble Brownies
- Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly across the bottom.
- Place the unwrapped mini Reese’s peanut butter cups evenly over the brownie batter, arranging in rows or scattering randomly.
- Spoon the remaining brownie batter over the peanut butter cups, covering them completely.
Bake and Finish
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking to keep brownies fudgy.
- Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting into squares.
Notes
- Check brownies a few minutes before the end of baking to avoid dryness.
- Ensure brownie batter is thick enough to prevent peanut butter cups from sinking.
- Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even cooking.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate up to one week.
- Rewarm brownies by microwaving for 10-15 seconds for a fresh-baked taste.
