These chewy peanut butter brownies are a decadent dessert made for true peanut butter lovers. Rich with flavor and a dense, fudgy texture, they blend the creamy taste of peanut butter with the soft chewiness of a brownie. A generous sprinkle of Reese’s Pieces candies on top adds vibrant color and an irresistible crunch in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, holiday tray, or just a weeknight treat, these brownies are simple to make and crowd-pleasing every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Packed with real peanut butter for deep, nutty flavor
Soft and chewy texture with a rich, moist crumb
Bright and crunchy Reese’s Pieces make every bite exciting
Quick prep and easy-to-follow steps—great for beginner bakers
Perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or a cozy treat at home
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
⅔ cup butter, melted – Provides moisture and richness to the brownie base. Melted butter blends easily with sugars to create a smooth texture.
1⅓ cups granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and structure while helping create a soft crumb.
1 cup light brown sugar – Offers deeper flavor with its molasses content and contributes to the chewy texture.
4 large eggs – Bind the batter and help give the brownies structure while contributing to their soft, fudgy center.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor and adds a warm, sweet note to the batter.
1 cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky) – The heart of the recipe. Creamy gives a smooth texture, while chunky adds extra crunch.
2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides the body and structure of the brownies.
2 teaspoons baking powder – Helps the brownies rise slightly, giving them a soft but not cakey texture.
¼ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and intensifies the flavor of the peanut butter and chocolate.
½ cup Reese’s Pieces – Pressed into the top of the batter before baking, these add color, crunch, and bursts of peanut butter candy flavor.
Directions
Preheat and prepare your baking pan Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 11 x 13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy lifting after baking.
Combine the wet ingredients In a large mixing bowl, stir together the melted butter, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and peanut butter until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt until everything is fully incorporated.
Prepare the dry ingredients In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. This ensures even distribution and avoids clumps.
Mix the batter Gradually add the flour mixture into the wet ingredients. Fold gently using a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, or the brownies may turn out too cakey.
Add candy topping and bake Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even baking. Sprinkle the Reese’s Pieces evenly over the surface, gently pressing them in so they stick.
Bake and cool Bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The top should look firm and lightly golden, while the center should still be soft and moist. Remove from the oven and allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Once cool, slice into squares and serve.
Servings and timing
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: 45–50 minutes
Servings: Makes 12–16 brownies depending on how you slice them
Variations
Chocolate Swirl: Add a swirl of melted chocolate or Nutella on top before baking for a rich twist.
Extra Candy: Mix an additional ½ cup of Reese’s Pieces into the batter before baking for more candy in every bite.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the flour with a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose baking blend.
Peanut-Free Swap: Use sunflower seed butter and candy-coated sunflower seeds for a nut-free alternative.
Mini Brownies: Bake the batter in a muffin tin lined with cupcake liners for individual brownie cups.
Storage/Reheating
At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Keep out of direct sunlight and heat.
In the Fridge: Keeps for up to 1 week. Place in a sealed container and allow to return to room temperature before eating for the best texture.
Freezing: Wrap each brownie tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm a single brownie in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to revive that fresh-baked softness.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but make sure it’s well-stirred and not too oily or dry. The texture may be slightly different, but still delicious.
Can I make this recipe without eggs?
You can try using an egg replacer like flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg), though it may alter the texture slightly.
What type of pan should I use?
A metal or glass 11 x 13-inch baking pan works best. If using a dark metal pan, check a few minutes earlier for doneness to avoid overbaking.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but use two pans or one extra-large sheet pan to avoid undercooked centers. Adjust baking time accordingly.
Do the Reese’s Pieces go inside or just on top?
This recipe adds them just on top, but you can fold some into the batter for extra crunch and flavor.
How do I get clean slices?
Let the brownies cool completely before cutting. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between slices.
Can I make these in advance?
Absolutely. These brownies keep well and even taste better the next day after the flavors settle.
What happens if I overbake them?
They’ll become more cake-like and lose some chewiness. Keep an eye on the baking time for the perfect soft center.
Can I reduce the sugar?
You can reduce both sugars slightly (by about ¼ cup each), but it may change the texture and sweetness.
Are these brownies nut-free?
No, they contain peanut butter and Reese’s Pieces. For a nut-free version, you’d need to replace both with allergy-safe alternatives.
Conclusion
Chewy Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Brownies bring together everything you love in a dessert—rich peanut butter flavor, a soft and satisfying texture, and a colorful candy crunch in every bite. Simple to prepare and impossible to resist, these brownies are perfect for any occasion where comfort and indulgence are on the menu. One batch won’t be enough.
