Peanut Butter Crack Brownies
The Kind of Brownies People Remember
These are the brownies people don’t forget.
Rich, fudgy brownies layered with peanut butter, chocolate and just enough crunch to keep things interesting. They’re sweet, a little salty, and completely addictive. The kind of dessert that quietly disappears from the tray.
This is one of those recipes that gets talked about long after the last bite. Perfect for parties, home baked gift giving (include the recipe!) and honestly anytime of year!
Prep work while the brownies makes it easier! Chop peanut butter cups and peanuts. Measure chocolate chips, peanut butter and butter ready to microwave.
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Peanut Butter Crack Brownies
Ingredients
- 1 box brownie mix (not family size) prepared according to package in a 9×9 pan
- 1/2 cup salted or honey roasted peanuts Chopped
- 12 peanut butter cups Chopped
- 1 TBSP butter
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter heaping (or 1 1/4 cup)
- 1 3/4 cups crispy rice cereal
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions
- Bake brownies according to package directions in a 9×9 pan sprayed with nonstick spray.
- While brownies are baking measure chocolate chips, peanut butter and cereal. Also, chop peanut butter cups and chop peanuts if needed. Having these ready when the brownies come out of the oven makes it easier!
- During last 5 minutes of baking, remove from oven and sprinkle chopped peanut butter cups and chopped peanuts on top. Return to oven for 5 minutes to melt chocolate.
- Remove from oven and immediately spread the warm peanut butter cups/peanuts with baking spatula or back of a spoon smooth. Let brownies cool.
- In a microwave safe bowl combine chocolate chips, peanut butter and butter. Heat in microwave for 1 minute; stir. Heat additional 20 seconds at an time until chocolate chips are melted.
- Stir in cereal, vanilla and salt until evenly combined.
- Pour over brownies and smooth. Chill until chocolate mixture on top is set, about 2 hours.
- Cut into squares to serve.
Nutrition
Cathy’s Notes & Tips
A few things I’ve learned making these:
Serving Ideas
- Perfect for dessert trays
- Great for holidays and potlucks
- Easy grab-and-go treat
- Ideal when you need a crowd-pleasing dessert
Storage + Make-Ahead Tips
Peanut Butter Crack Brownies store beautifully.
- Layer them in a container with wax paper between the layers
- Store in the refrigerator for best texture
- They’re great made a day ahead
- Easy to grab and serve when guests arrive
- Perfect any time of year dessert
These are the brownies that people remember; rich, layered, and just the right amount of indulgent. If you’re looking for a dessert that feels a little extra without extra effort, this is the one.
If you make them, don’t be surprised when someone asks for the recipe.
From My Kitchen Table
I hope this recipe brings a little comfort and joy to your day because food should nourish both body and soul.
If you make it, I’d love to see! Tag me on Instagram @cathyshealthylife so I can cheer you on from my kitchen table.