If you love chocolate-packed desserts that feel like a luxurious, homemade version of a classic candy bar, these Snickers Brownie Bars are the ultimate treat. They feature a fudgy brownie base topped with peanut nougat, soft caramel loaded with roasted peanuts, and a smooth chocolate–peanut butter finish. Every layer delivers a perfect mix of chewy, creamy, crunchy, and chocolaty textures.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Layers of rich brownie, fluffy nougat, gooey caramel, and chocolate create a bakery-style dessert at home
• Uses budget-friendly ingredients found in any grocery store
• Easy to prepare—no candy thermometer or complicated steps
• Great for potlucks, gatherings, and make-ahead desserts
• Can be customized for gluten-free or nut-free needs
• Stores and slices beautifully for meal prep or gifting
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Brownie Layer
1 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs, room temperature
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Peanut Nougat Layer
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup evaporated milk
1 1/2 cups marshmallow creme
1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy lifting. Lightly grease the edges. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
For the brownie layer: Whisk melted butter and sugar until glossy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla.
In another bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture just until combined.
Spread the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 22–25 minutes, then allow to cool completely.
For the nougat layer: In a saucepan, melt butter, sugar, and evaporated milk. Bring to a gentle boil and cook for 5 minutes, stirring constantly.
Remove from heat and mix in marshmallow creme, peanut butter, and vanilla. Spread the nougat evenly over the cooled brownie base.
For the caramel layer: Microwave caramels and heavy cream in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Mix in the chopped peanuts. Spread this caramel mixture over the nougat layer. Press chopped Snickers pieces into the caramel.
Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to help the layers set.
For the chocolate topping: Melt milk chocolate chips with peanut butter until smooth. Spread evenly over the chilled caramel layer.
Chill completely before slicing for clean, neat bars.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes about 20–24 bars, depending on how large you slice them.
Prep time: 25–30 minutes
Cook time: 22–25 minutes
Chilling time: 1–2 hours for fully set layers
Variations
• Gluten-free: Substitute the flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
• Nut-free: Use sunflower seed butter and swap peanuts for chopped seeds or seed clusters.
• Dark chocolate version: Replace milk chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips.
• Lower sugar: Use reduced-sugar chocolate, sugar-free caramel, and a natural sweetener in the brownie layer.
• Holiday twist: Add crushed pretzels or seasonal sprinkles to the caramel layer.
Storage/Reheating
• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 5–7 days.
• Freezer: Freeze individual slices wrapped in parchment and foil for up to 3 months.
• Serving: Enjoy chilled for cleaner layers, or let the bars sit at room temperature 10–15 minutes for a softer bite.
• Make-ahead: Bake the brownies a day in advance and assemble the upper layers when ready.
FAQs
How do I keep the layers from mixing together?
Ensure the brownie base is fully cooled and chill between each layer for clean separation.
Can I use semi-sweet chocolate instead of milk chocolate?
Yes, semi-sweet or dark chocolate both work well for a richer flavor.
What if my caramel is too thick?
Add a little extra heavy cream and reheat gently until smooth.
Can I make the brownie layer from a boxed mix?
Yes, a 9×13-inch boxed brownie mix works if you need a shortcut.
Can I freeze the bars whole instead of slicing first?
Yes, freeze the entire slab, then thaw slightly before cutting.
Can I use natural peanut butter in the nougat?
Yes, but choose a no-stir variety for the best texture.
What can I use instead of marshmallow creme?
Melt mini marshmallows with 1 tablespoon corn syrup to create a similar texture.
How do I prevent the chocolate topping from cracking?
Let the bars warm slightly at room temperature before slicing and use a warm knife.
Can I skip the chopped Snickers on top?
Yes, they’re optional—the bars will still taste like a candy bar.
Are these bars suitable for gifting?
Absolutely. They hold their shape well and stay fresh for several days.
Conclusion
These Snickers Brownie Bars transform classic candy-bar flavors into a rich, layered dessert that’s guaranteed to impress. With fudgy brownies, creamy nougat, soft caramel, and smooth chocolate, every bite feels decadent and satisfying. Ideal for parties, holidays, bake sales, or weekend indulgence, this recipe is easy to prepare, customizable, and perfect for making ahead. Enjoy the irresistible combination of chocolate, peanuts, nougat, and caramel in a homemade treat your family will request again and again.
These Snickers Brownie Bars feature layers of fudgy brownie, fluffy peanut nougat, gooey caramel with roasted peanuts, and a smooth chocolate–peanut butter topping. They’re rich, decadent, and taste just like a homemade candy bar.
Author:Sophia
Prep Time:30 minutes
Cook Time:25 minutes
Total Time:1 hour 55 minutes (including chilling time)
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper. Lightly grease the sides.
Brownie Layer: Whisk together melted butter and sugar. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Fold dry ingredients into wet until just combined. Spread into prepared pan and bake for 22–25 minutes. Let cool completely.
Nougat Layer: In a saucepan, melt butter, sugar, and evaporated milk. Bring to a boil and cook for 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in marshmallow creme, peanut butter, and vanilla. Spread over cooled brownie layer.
Caramel Layer: Microwave caramels and heavy cream in 20-second intervals until melted and smooth. Stir in chopped peanuts. Spread evenly over nougat layer. Press chopped Snickers bars into caramel if using. Chill for 20–30 minutes.
Chocolate Topping: Melt chocolate chips and peanut butter until smooth. Spread evenly over chilled caramel layer.
Chill completely for 1–2 hours or until fully set. Slice into bars and serve.
Notes
For easier slicing, use a warm knife and let bars sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before cutting.
You can substitute boxed brownie mix for the base in a pinch.
Nougat can be made using melted mini marshmallows with corn syrup if marshmallow creme is unavailable.
For a richer flavor, use dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate.
