There’s something undeniably comforting about the combination of peanut butter and chocolate—a duo that evokes memories of childhood treats and cozy afternoons in the kitchen. As I gathered my ingredients to whip up a batch of Marshmallow Peanut Butter Brownies, the thought of rich chocolate mingling with that creamy goodness had my mouth watering from the start. These brownies aren’t just your average dessert; they’re a delightful celebration of flavors that come together seamlessly to create a treat that’s both indulgent and fun.
After my last encounter with overly sweet, store-bought snacks left me uninspired, I decided it was time to reignite my passion for homemade delights. This recipe quickly became my go-to solution, combining the creamy embrace of peanut butter with the airy sweetness of marshmallow fluff, all nestled in deliciously fudgy brownie perfection. The best part? They come together in under an hour, making them a convenient option for satisfying that sweet tooth or impressing guests at your next gathering. So, let your baking adventure begin—your taste buds are in for an unforgettable experience!
Why you’ll crave Marshmallow Peanut Butter Brownies?
Irresistible Flavor Explosion: The blend of rich chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and fluffy marshmallow creates a decadent taste sensation that will leave everyone wanting more.
Quick and Easy: With just under an hour from start to finish, your homemade masterpiece is achievable, even on a busy day.
Perfect for Sharing: These brownies are ideal for parties or gatherings, guaranteeing smiles and compliments at every event.
Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a delightful dessert, an afternoon snack, or even a sweet breakfast pick-me-up!
No Fuss Baking: Even novice bakers will find success with this straightforward recipe, inviting everyone to join in the fun.
Bored of Fast Food? This homemade treat is the perfect remedy for your cravings; dive into the world of baked bliss by spending quality time in the kitchen!
Marshmallow Peanut Butter Brownies Ingredients
• Gather your ingredients for creativity in the kitchen!
For the Peanut Butter Layer
- Creamy Peanut Butter – adds that delightful, nutty richness to balance the sweetness.
- Powdered Sugar – helps achieve the perfect creamy texture and sweetness.
- Unsalted Butter – softens for easy mixing and enhances flavor.
- Pinch of Salt – helps to elevate the sweetness and brings out flavors.
For the Brownie Batter
- All-Purpose Flour – provides the structure; measure carefully for the best texture.
- Salt – a critical ingredient that plays a vital role in balancing sweetness.
- Baking Powder – adds lift to your brownies, creating a fudgy yet tender crumb.
- Large Eggs – essential for binding and contributing to the moisture and richness.
- Granulated Sugar – sweetens your brownies and contributes to their fudginess.
- Brown Sugar – adds depth and moisture to the brownie texture.
- Canola Oil – keeps the brownies moist and chewy without overpowering the flavor.
- Pure Vanilla Extract – infuses warmth and richness; don’t skip it!
For the Chocolate Component
- Unsalted Butter – extra butter for richness in the chocolate mix.
- Bittersweet Chocolate – the star of the show, providing luscious chocolate flavor.
- Dutch Process Cocoa Powder – adds a deep, dark chocolatey taste and color.
For the Topping
- Store-Bought Marshmallow Fluff – brings an airy touch that complements the rich brownie base.
Get ready to indulge in the delightful world of Marshmallow Peanut Butter Brownies as you gather these ingredients!
How to Make Marshmallow Peanut Butter Brownies
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Mix Peanut Butter Layer: In a medium bowl, combine creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, unsalted butter, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Stir until completely smooth and creamy, then set it aside.
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Preheat Oven: Adjust your oven rack to the center and preheat it to 350ºF (180ºC). Grease a 9 by 13 inch (23 by 33 cm) baking pan and line it with a parchment sling for easy removal.
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Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder. This step ensures even distribution of the leavening agent in your brownies.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In another small bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, canola oil, and vanilla extract. Make sure it’s well mixed to bring out all the flavors!
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Melt Chocolate: In a small, heavy-bottom saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and chopped bittersweet chocolate together, stirring frequently. Once melted and smooth, remove it from the heat and whisk in the cocoa powder.
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Combine Chocolate and Sugar Mixtures: Pour the melted chocolate mixture into the egg-sugar mixture and whisk until smooth and well combined. Then, fold in the flour mixture until just combined; be careful not to overmix!
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Pour and Swirl: Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan. Dollop the peanut butter layer and marshmallow fluff over the top, alternating between the two. Take a butter knife and gently drag it through the batter to create delightful swirls.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake the brownies for 26 to 32 minutes. They’re ready when the edges are set, the top has a glossy, crackled appearance, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.
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Cool and Serve: Let the brownies cool completely on a wire rack. Gently lift them from the pan using the parchment sling, cut into bars, and indulge in every chocolatey bite!
Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra touch of indulgence!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Marshmallow Peanut Butter Brownies?
Elevate your dessert experience with delightful pairings that enhance the sweet, creamy goodness of these brownies.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cool texture of vanilla ice cream complements the rich brownies beautifully, creating a heavenly combination. When it melts slightly, it adds a delightful contrast.
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Fresh Berries: Tart strawberries or raspberries introduce a refreshing burst of flavor, balancing the sweetness and adding a pop of color to your plate.
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Chocolate Sauce: A drizzle of warm chocolate sauce brings extra indulgence, amplifying the chocolatey goodness and providing a beautiful presentation.
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Espresso: A shot of espresso enhances the rich flavors of the brownies, creating a sophisticated pairing that is perfect after dinner. The bitterness of the coffee beautifully complements the sweetness.
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Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of salted caramel over the brownies adds a luxurious touch, enhancing the overall flavor profile and creating a truly decadent treat.
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Chilled Milk: Classic and comforting, a glass of cold milk provides a delightful contrast to the warm brownies, making for a nostalgic dessert experience.
Exploring these pairings will surely amplify your enjoyment of Marshmallow Peanut Butter Brownies and create a memorable dessert moment!
Expert Tips for Marshmallow Peanut Butter Brownies
• Choose Quality Chocolate: Use high-quality bittersweet chocolate for the best flavor; it makes a huge difference in the richness of your brownies.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better incorporation into the batter.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the brownie batter just until combined; overmixing can lead to dense, dry brownies instead of the fudgy delight you desire.
• Check for Doneness: For perfectly baked brownies, look for slightly set edges and a glossy top. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
• Swirling Technique: When creating the swirls with peanut butter and marshmallow fluff, be gentle. Overly vigorous swirling can lead to blended layers, rather than distinct stripes of flavor.
• Keep Leftovers Fresh: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain their chewy texture. Enjoy your homemade Marshmallow Peanut Butter Brownies!
How to Store and Freeze Marshmallow Peanut Butter Brownies
Room Temperature: Keep brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, ensuring they remain moist and chewy.
Fridge: Store in the refrigerator for up to a week; however, allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying for the best flavor and texture.
Freezer: Freeze brownies in a freezer-safe container or wrap individually in plastic wrap, lasting up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to indulge.
Reheating: Warm individual squares in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a delicious, gooey experience every time!
Marshmallow Peanut Butter Brownies Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity—these brownies can truly be customized to your taste preferences!
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Nut-Free: Substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free delight that still packs a rich flavor. It brings a similar creaminess without the allergen.
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Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these brownies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends. They’ll be just as fudgy and delicious!
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Extra Chocolate: Add chocolate chips to the brownie batter for a burst of melty goodness in every bite. The added texture complements the rich chocolate experience beautifully.
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Creamy Swirl: Use cream cheese frosting instead of marshmallow fluff for a tangy twist that enhances the rich chocolate and peanut butter flavors. It’s a delightful option for cream cheese lovers!
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the brownie batter for a unique heat that contrasts with the sweetness. This unexpected twist will surprise and delight adventurous eaters.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top after baking for a luscious layer of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the brownies. It adds a chewy texture and flavor depth.
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Fruit Infusion: Add chopped strawberries or raspberries to the batter for a fruity freshness that lightens the dessert and balances the richness of chocolate and peanut butter.
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Nutty Crunch: Fold in crushed pretzels or chopped nuts to the batter for an added crunch. This brings delightful contrasts in texture alongside the dreamy fudginess.
Become the baking maestro of your own kitchen by trying out these variations on the classic Marshmallow Peanut Butter Brownies!
Make Ahead Options
These delectable Marshmallow Peanut Butter Brownies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the brownie batter and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just mix everything as per the recipe, but avoid layering the peanut butter and marshmallow fluff until you’re ready to bake. To maintain their delightful texture, be sure to cover the batter tightly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, simply add the dollops of peanut butter and marshmallow fluff, swirl them through, and bake as directed. This prep-ahead option not only saves time on busy days but ensures your brownies are just as delicious when served fresh from the oven!
Marshmallow Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for my cupcakes?
Absolutely! For the best results, select creamy peanut butter that is smooth and free of any added sugars or oils. The bittersweet chocolate should be high-quality for richer flavors. If you’re selecting eggs, ensure they’re large and at room temperature, so they blend seamlessly into your batter.
How do I store leftover brownies?
To keep your Marshmallow Peanut Butter Brownies fresh, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like a bit more longevity, you can store them in the refrigerator for a week—just allow them to warm to room temperature for the best taste.
Can I freeze these brownies?
Yes! To freeze your Marshmallow Peanut Butter Brownies, first let them cool completely. Then, wrap each square individually in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll stay delicious for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to warm them up.
What do I do if my brownies come out too dry?
Very! If your brownies turn out dry, it could be due to overbaking. Always start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time. You want the edges set but the center should still be slightly moist when tested with a toothpick. If they are still firm, consider reducing the baking time in future attempts for a chewier texture.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap out the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free flour blend. The best part is that the fudgy texture and taste will still shine through, allowing everyone to enjoy this indulgent treat!
Are Marshmallow Peanut Butter Brownies safe for my pets?
It’s best to keep these brownies away from pets, particularly because chocolate is toxic to dogs and other animals. Make sure to indulge in this delightful dessert for yourself and share some pet-safe treats instead!
Decadent Marshmallow Peanut Butter Brownies You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, unsalted butter, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Stir until completely smooth and creamy, then set it aside.
- Adjust your oven rack to the center and preheat it to 350ºF (180ºC). Grease a 9 by 13 inch baking pan and line it with a parchment sling for easy removal.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder.
- In another small bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, canola oil, and vanilla extract.
- In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and chopped bittersweet chocolate together, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and whisk in the cocoa powder.
- Pour the melted chocolate mixture into the egg-sugar mixture and whisk until smooth. Fold in the flour mixture until just combined.
- Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan. Dollop the peanut butter layer and marshmallow fluff over the top, alternating between the two. Gently drag a butter knife through the batter to create swirls.
- Bake the brownies for 26 to 32 minutes until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.
- Let the brownies cool completely on a wire rack. Lift them from the pan using the parchment sling, cut into bars, and enjoy!