If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and peanut butter with the nostalgic allure of s’mores, look no further than these Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Smores Brownies. These brownies boast a luscious crust made from graham crackers, a fudgy brownie layer, and are topped with gooey marshmallows and sweet peanut butter cups. This recipe is perfect for gatherings, parties, or simply to satisfy that sweet tooth craving. Grab your apron and let’s dive into this delightful treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Smores Brownies are more than just a dessert; they’re an experience! The combination of textures—from the crumbly graham cracker crust to the dense brownie and the melty toppings—creates a dessert that is both satisfying and indulgent. The peanut butter cups add a creamy, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the chocolate. Plus, they’re easy to make and can be prepared in just a few simple steps!

Your Shopping Guide

Before you start baking, here’s a handy shopping list to ensure you have everything you need:

Unsalted butter (total of 14 tablespoons)
Graham cracker crumbs (1.5 cups)
Sugar (2 tablespoons + 1 cup + 3/4 cup)
Fine salt (a pinch + 1/2 teaspoon)
Unsweetened chocolate (4 ounces)
Light brown sugar (1 cup packed)
Pure vanilla extract (1.5 teaspoons)
Cold eggs (4 large)
All-purpose flour (1 cup)
Mini marshmallows (2 cups)
Mini Reese’s peanut butter cups (10, cut in half)
Peanut butter (1/4 cup, melted)

Cook’s Kit

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the following kitchen tools:

9×13 inch baking pan – for the perfect brownie size.
Mixing bowls – to combine your ingredients.
Whisk and spatula – for mixing and spreading.
Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy in your recipe.
Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl – for melting chocolate and butter.

Directions: Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Smores Brownies

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine the melted butter, crushed graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until all the crumbs are evenly coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking pan to create your crust.

Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter

In a double boiler, melt the 8 tablespoons of unsalted butter and the chopped unsweetened chocolate together, stirring until smooth. Once melted, remove from heat and let cool slightly. In a large bowl, whisk together the light brown sugar, white sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Add in the melted chocolate mixture and mix until well combined.

Step 3: Add the Eggs and Flour

Add the cold eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Once fully incorporated, gently fold in the all-purpose flour until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay!

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Pour the brownie batter over the prepared graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 5: Add the Toppings

Remove the brownies from the oven and immediately top them with the mini marshmallows and halved peanut butter cups. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden and puffed.

Step 6: Drizzle with Peanut Butter

Once the brownies are out of the oven, drizzle the melted peanut butter over the top while they are still warm. Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before cutting into squares.

Variations for Dietary Needs

If you have specific dietary requirements, here are some easy substitutions you can make:

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers and all-purpose flour.
Dairy-Free: Substitute with vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate.
Nut-Free: Omit the peanut butter cups and use sunflower seed butter instead.
Reduced Sugar: Use a sugar substitute for a lower-calorie option.

Slip-Ups to Skip

To ensure your Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Smores Brownies turn out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

Don’t overbake the brownies; they should remain fudgy in the center.
Let the brownies cool completely before cutting for clean edges.
Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
Use fresh marshmallows for optimal fluffiness and flavor.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

To enjoy your Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Smores Brownies for days to come, follow these storage tips:

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.
If freezing, wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.

Ask & Learn

Can I use different types of chocolate in the brownies?

Absolutely! You can use semi-sweet or dark chocolate if you prefer a different flavor profile. Just ensure it’s unsweetened if you want to maintain the balance of sweetness in the recipe.

What can I substitute for graham cracker crumbs?

If you don’t have graham crackers, crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers work well as substitutes for the crust.

How can I make these brownies more chocolatey?

For an extra chocolatey kick, consider adding chocolate chips to the brownie batter before baking. They’ll melt into the brownies, enhancing the chocolate flavor.

Is there a way to make these brownies less sweet?

You can reduce the amount of sugar in the brownie batter or opt for dark chocolate, as it tends to be less sweet than milk chocolate. Experimenting with bittersweet chocolate can also help balance the sweetness.

Quick Weeknight Wins

If you’re looking for more quick and easy dessert recipes, check out these delicious options:

Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars – A simple and satisfying treat.
Decadent Triple Chocolate Cheesecake – For the ultimate chocolate lover.

Time to Try It

Now that you have all the details, it’s time to whip up a batch of these Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Smores Brownies. Whether for a potluck, a movie night, or just because, they’re sure to impress and satisfy anyone who takes a bite. Enjoy the process of baking, and don’t forget to share your delicious results with friends and family!

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