These Peanut Butter Crunch Brownies combine the rich fudgy goodness of brownies with a creamy peanut butter layer and a crunchy topping of chocolate and rice cereal. They’re a decadent, crowd-pleasing dessert perfect for peanut butter and chocolate lovers!
Ingredients:
For the brownies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)
For the peanut butter layer:
- 1½ cups creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup powdered sugar (optional, for sweetness)
For the crunchy topping:
- 1½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1½ cups crispy rice cereal (like Rice Krispies)
- 2 tablespoons butter or coconut oil
Instructions:
Make the brownies:
- Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Prepare the brownie batter:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Stir in the chocolate chips (if using).
- Bake the brownies:
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Remove from the oven and let the brownies cool completely.
Make the peanut butter layer:
- Spread the peanut butter:
- Once the brownies have cooled, mix the peanut butter with powdered sugar (if using) until smooth and creamy. Spread the peanut butter mixture evenly over the brownies.
Make the crunchy topping:
- Prepare the chocolate topping:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and butter (or coconut oil) in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and melted.
- Stir in the crispy rice cereal until fully coated with the melted chocolate.
- Assemble the layers:
- Gently spread the chocolate-cereal mixture over the peanut butter layer, creating an even layer. Use a spatula to smooth it out.
- Chill and serve:
- Refrigerate the brownies for at least 1-2 hours to set the layers before slicing. Once set, slice into squares and serve.
Enjoy these indulgent Peanut Butter Crunch Brownies for a delightful combination of creamy, fudgy, and crunchy textures—perfect for any chocolate and peanut butter fan!
