Peanut Butter Crunch Brownies

This rich peanut butter crunch brownie recipe combines three wonderful layers for an unforgettable dessert experience. The fudgy chocolate base creates the perfect foundation for creamy peanut butter and a chocolate Rice Krispies topping that adds delightful texture with every bite.

I first made these brownies for my son's birthday party and they disappeared within minutes. Now they've become our go-to dessert whenever we have guests over who appreciate that magical chocolate-peanut butter combination.

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter: Provides richness to both the brownies and topping
• Baking chocolate: Creates an intense chocolate base that balances the sweet peanut butter
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens without overpowering the chocolate
• Large eggs: Bind everything together and provide structure
• All purpose flour: Keeps the brownies tender without being cakey
• Creamy peanut butter: Forms the middle layer. Choose a traditional variety rather than natural for best texture
• Semi sweet chocolate chips: Melt beautifully for the top layer
• Rice Krispies cereal: Adds the signature crunch that makes these brownies special

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Pan:

Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a 9x9 glass baking dish with either nonstick spray or parchment paper. Using parchment allows you to lift the entire dessert out later for cleaner cutting.

Create the Brownie Base:

In a large bowl combine your melted butter with melted chocolate and sugar using a hand mixer until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla next mixing until fully incorporated. The mixture should look glossy and slightly thickened. Gently mix in the salt baking powder and flour just until no dry streaks remain. Overmixing at this stage can lead to tough brownies.

Bake the Foundation:

Pour your brownie batter into the prepared pan spreading it evenly into the corners. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs. The brownies should be set around the edges but still slightly soft in the center.

Add the Peanut Butter Layer:

While the brownies are still warm spread the creamy peanut butter across the entire surface. The heat will soften the peanut butter making it easier to spread without tearing the brownie layer. Allow this to cool for about an hour or speed up the process by placing in the freezer for about 10 minutes.

Create the Chocolate Crunch Topping:

In a microwave safe bowl combine chocolate chips and the tablespoon of butter. Heat in 15second intervals stirring between each until completely smooth. Fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until every piece is coated with chocolate. Work quickly as the mixture will begin to set.

Complete the Layers:

Carefully spread your chocolate Rice Krispies mixture over the peanut butter layer creating the final tier of your dessert. Place the entire pan in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes until the top layer is completely set.

The Rice Krispies are truly the magic ingredient in this recipe. My grandmother always added cereal to her chocolate treats for extra texture and I've continued that tradition. The simple addition transforms what could be just another brownie into something truly memorable that friends always ask about.

Storing Your Brownies

These peanut butter crunch brownies stay fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage refrigerate them for up to a week though the Rice Krispies may soften slightly over time. You can also freeze cut brownies individually wrapped for up to 3 months. Allow them to thaw at room temperature for about an hour before serving.

Smart Substitutions

If peanut allergies are a concern substitute almond butter or sunflower seed butter for the middle layer. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious. For a more intense chocolate experience use dark chocolate chips instead of semi sweet. You can also experiment with different cereals for the crunchy topping such as cocoa puffs for even more chocolate flavor or corn flakes for a different kind of crunch.

Serving Suggestions

While these brownies are perfect on their own they can be transformed into a showstopping dessert. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an elegant plated dessert. For a fun party presentation cut into smaller bite sized squares and place in mini cupcake liners on a tiered stand. These brownies also make excellent gifts packed in decorative tins or boxes.

The Secret to Perfect Layers

The key to these brownies is timing between layers. The brownie base should be fully baked but the peanut butter needs to be spread while the base is still warm. However the peanut butter layer must be completely cool before adding the chocolate Rice Krispies topping or the layers will mix together. Taking the time to allow proper cooling between steps results in distinct beautiful layers that showcase each component.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How can I make the topping extra crispy?

To make the topping extra crispy, increase the Rice Krispies cereal to 1 1/2 cups. This will create a crunchier texture in the top layer.

→ Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but ensure it is well-stirred and smooth to avoid a grainy texture in the topping layer.

→ Can I substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips?

Absolutely! You can use milk or dark chocolate chips if you prefer a sweeter or richer flavor, respectively.

→ How can I cool the brownies faster?

You can place the pan in the freezer for a few minutes to speed up the cooling process before adding the topping layers.

→ Can I use a different cereal in the topping?

Yes, you can experiment with other puffed cereals, such as puffed quinoa or corn flakes, for a unique texture and flavor.