Reese’s Stuffed Brownies combine the richness of homemade brownies with the sweet and salty flavor of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. This recipe delivers a delicious surprise inside each bite—perfectly blending smooth chocolate with creamy peanut butter. Not only is this recipe easy to follow, but it also adds a fun twist to traditional brownies by encasing the Reese’s cups in chocolatey goodness. The combination of two beloved treats—classic brownies and Reese’s—is an irresistible match for chocolate and peanut butter lovers.

By baking these brownies in a muffin tin, you create individual servings, making them perfect for parties, gatherings, or even as a special dessert for family and friends. The result is a soft, fudgy brownie with a gooey peanut butter core that is sure to delight anyone who takes a bite. These brownies are a creative and indulgent treat that will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Why People Love Stuffed Brownies

Stuffed desserts have gained massive popularity in recent years, as they offer an element of surprise and decadence that goes beyond traditional baked goods. Brownies, already a beloved treat on their own, become even more exciting when stuffed with delicious fillings like Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. The combination of peanut butter and chocolate is universally adored, and for good reason: the sweet, rich chocolate complements the salty, creamy peanut butter in a way that creates the perfect balance of flavors.

Peanut butter and chocolate are a classic duo in desserts, satisfying the cravings of both sweet and savory dessert lovers. In Reese’s Stuffed Brownies, this combination is elevated by the soft, fudgy texture of the brownie and the chewy, peanut butter center. Moreover, baking these treats in a muffin tin makes for convenient individual servings, which are great for portion control or on-the-go snacking.

Muffin-tin brownies not only look appealing but also bake more evenly, resulting in perfectly portioned treats with a delicious hidden center. The popularity of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, paired with the love for brownies, makes this recipe a hit for anyone who enjoys rich, indulgent desserts.

Ingredients Breakdown

Each ingredient in Reese’s Stuffed Brownies plays an important role in creating the perfect flavor and texture. Let’s break down how each contributes to the overall recipe:

• Salted Butter: Butter adds a rich, creamy flavor and helps create the soft, moist texture in brownies. The salt in the butter enhances the sweetness of the chocolate and balances the overall flavor.
• Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter is key to replicating the flavor of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. It adds a smooth, nutty richness to the batter, helping to tie in the flavor of the stuffed Reese’s cups with the rest of the brownie.
• Unsweetened Baking Chocolate: This provides the base chocolate flavor for the brownies. Unlike cocoa powder, baking chocolate delivers a richer, more intense chocolate flavor and also contributes to the fudgy texture of the brownie. Since it’s unsweetened, you have full control over the sweetness of the final product.
• Granulated Sugar: Sugar adds sweetness and helps to create the structure of the brownies. When beaten with the eggs, it helps trap air in the batter, giving the brownies a slight rise and helping achieve a tender crumb.
• Vanilla Extract: A small amount of vanilla extract enhances the flavor of the chocolate and adds a subtle depth to the brownies without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Eggs: Eggs are essential for binding the ingredients together and creating the soft, moist texture of the brownies. They also contribute to the structure, helping the brownies hold their shape while remaining fudgy.
• All-Purpose Flour: The flour provides the base structure of the brownies, but only a small amount is used to keep them dense and fudgy rather than cakey.
• Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups: The star ingredient of the recipe, these peanut butter cups add a delightful surprise in each brownie. Their combination of peanut butter and chocolate pairs perfectly with the brownie base, creating a rich and indulgent dessert experience.

Kitchen Tools Needed

To make Reese’s Stuffed Brownies, you’ll need the following kitchen tools to ensure the process is smooth and the results are perfect:

• Muffin Tin: This is essential for creating individual servings of brownies. The muffin tin ensures even baking and makes it easy to portion each brownie.
• Small Saucepan: Used to melt the chocolate, peanut butter, and butter together. A small saucepan allows you to control the heat and prevents the ingredients from burning.
• Large Mixing Bowl: A large bowl is needed for mixing the brownie batter. You’ll want enough room to combine all the ingredients without making a mess.
• Electric Mixer (or Whisk): An electric mixer will help you beat the eggs, sugar, and vanilla until they’re light and fluffy, but a whisk can also work if you prefer to mix by hand.
• Cooling Rack: After baking, the brownies need to cool down, and a cooling rack allows for even air circulation around the brownies, preventing them from becoming soggy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheating the Oven and Preparing the Muffin Tin
   Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, spray a 12-cup muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray to prevent the brownies from sticking. This is crucial for easy removal later.
2. Melting the Chocolate, Peanut Butter, and Butter Together
   In a small saucepan, combine the unsweetened baking chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and salted butter. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly to avoid burning. Keep the heat low to prevent the chocolate from seizing or burning, which can affect both flavor and texture. Once everything is melted and smooth, remove from heat and let it cool for about 5 minutes before adding to the batter.
3. Combining Ingredients in the Right Order
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat on high speed for 2–3 minutes, or until the mixture becomes pale and slightly fluffy. Beating the eggs and sugar first helps create a lighter texture in the brownies by incorporating air. Slowly pour in the cooled chocolate mixture and beat on low speed until fully combined. Finally, add the all-purpose flour and mix on low speed until just combined to avoid over-mixing.
4. Assembling the Brownies
   Spoon about a tablespoon of brownie batter into each muffin cup. Place a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup on top of the batter and gently press it down to slightly embed it in the center. Add another teaspoon of brownie batter on top, ensuring the Reese’s cup is fully covered.
5. Baking and Cooling
   Bake for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the edge (not the center) of a brownie comes out clean. Avoid overbaking to keep the brownies fudgy. Let the brownies cool in the muffin tin for 5–10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Expert Tips for Perfect Reese’s Stuffed Brownies

1. How to Avoid Over-Mixing the Batter
   Once the flour is added to the mixture, mix on low speed or by hand just until the ingredients are combined. Over-mixing activates the gluten in the flour, which can result in tough, dense brownies rather than soft and fudgy ones. Stir gently and only until no streaks of flour remain.
2. Tricks for Ensuring Even Baking in a Muffin Tin
   To make sure all the brownies bake evenly, rotate the muffin tin halfway through the baking time. This helps account for any hot spots in your oven. Also, make sure each muffin cup has the same amount of batter to ensure even cooking.
3. How to Check for Doneness Without Cutting into the Brownies
   Instead of cutting into the brownies to check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the edge of the brownie (not the center where the Reese’s cup is). If the toothpick comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the brownies are done. Overbaking can dry them out, so remove them as soon as they pass this test.
4. Cooling and Removing Brownies from the Pan
   Allow the brownies to cool for 5–10 minutes in the pan before transferring them to a cooling rack. This helps the brownies set and makes them easier to remove without breaking apart. Use a butter knife to gently loosen the edges if necessary.

Substitutions and Variations

1. Alternative Ingredients
   • Dark Chocolate or Milk Chocolate: If you prefer a less intense chocolate flavor, you can substitute dark or milk chocolate for the unsweetened baking chocolate. Just reduce the sugar slightly if using sweeter chocolate to avoid an overly sweet brownie.
   • Caramel-Filled Candies or Marshmallow Cups: For a twist on the classic Reese’s filling, try stuffing the brownies with caramel-filled candies or marshmallow cups. These substitutions add a different texture and flavor, creating a fun variation of the original recipe.
2. Dietary Modifications
   • Gluten-Free Option: To make the brownies gluten-free, replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or oat flour. Both flours will keep the brownies dense and fudgy while providing a slight nutty flavor.
   • Vegan Substitutions: For a vegan version of this recipe, use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg) and dairy-free chocolate. Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and use vegan peanut butter cups.

Serving Suggestions

These Reese’s Stuffed Brownies are incredibly rich and indulgent on their own, but you can take them to the next level with these serving ideas:

• With a Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream: The contrast of warm, fudgy brownies with cold, creamy vanilla ice cream is a perfect pairing. Add a sprinkle of chopped peanuts for extra crunch.
• Drizzled with Chocolate Syrup or Caramel: For added decadence, drizzle the brownies with warm chocolate syrup or salted caramel. This adds another layer of flavor and complements the Reese’s filling.
• As Part of a Dessert Platter: Serve these individual brownies alongside other mini treats like cookies, truffles, or fruit for a stunning dessert display that’s perfect for entertaining.

Storing and Freezing

1. Storing for Freshness
   To keep your Reese’s Stuffed Brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can refrigerate them, which will extend their freshness to about 1 week. Before serving, let the brownies come to room temperature for the best texture.
2. Freezing and Reheating
   If you want to make a batch ahead of time or save leftovers, these brownies freeze well. To freeze, allow the brownies to cool completely, then wrap each one individually in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the brownies in the refrigerator or at room temperature. To reheat, warm them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make the brownies dry. Wrapping them in a damp paper towel before microwaving can help retain moisture and avoid sogginess.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make these brownies without a muffin tin?
   Yes, you can still make Reese’s Stuffed Brownies without a muffin tin. Instead of individual portions, use an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch square baking pan. Spread half the brownie batter evenly across the bottom of the prepared pan, place the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups evenly across the batter, and then cover them with the remaining batter. Bake at the same temperature (350°F), but extend the baking time to 25-30 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick to ensure the center is baked through.
2. How do I prevent my brownies from becoming dry?
   To avoid dry brownies, be careful with your measurements and baking time. Accurately measure your flour using the spoon-and-level method (spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level off the excess) to avoid adding too much. Overbaking can lead to dryness, so start checking the brownies a few minutes before the recommended time. Finally, using the right amount of fat (butter and peanut butter) ensures moisture retention in the brownies.
3. Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?
   Yes, you can substitute chunky peanut butter for creamy peanut butter in this recipe. However, the texture may change slightly, as the chunks of peanuts will add a bit of crunch to the brownies. If you prefer a smooth, even texture throughout the brownies, stick with creamy peanut butter.
4. What other candy can I use for stuffing?
   You can get creative with different fillings. Try using Snickers, caramel-filled chocolates, marshmallow cups, or even a spoonful of Nutella as an alternative to Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. Each substitution will bring a new flavor profile and texture to your brownies.
5. How do I know when my brownies are done?
   Use the toothpick test to check for doneness. Insert a toothpick into the edge of the brownie (away from the center where the candy is). If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the brownies are ready. The edges should look set, but the center can be slightly soft for a fudgy texture.
6. Can I double the recipe?
   Yes, you can double the recipe. Use a larger baking pan, such as a 9×13-inch pan, or bake two batches in muffin tins. Be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly. If using a larger pan, increase the baking time by about 5-10 minutes, but keep a close eye on the brownies and test for doneness as described above.

Reese’s Stuffed Brownies

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• Author: Christine

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Description

These Reese’s Stuffed Brownies are a decadent twist on classic brownies, offering the perfect combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter. Each brownie is baked in a muffin tin, creating individual portions that hide a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup inside for a sweet surprise. The brownies are dense, fudgy, and loaded with flavor, making them ideal for anyone who loves the combination of peanut butter and chocolate. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply want to treat yourself, these brownies are easy to make and guaranteed to impress.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• ⅓ cup salted butter
• ⅓ cup creamy peanut butter
• 5 oz unsweetened baking chocolate cut into chunks
• 1 ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 12 Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups

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Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray a muffin tin with cooking spray.
• In a small saucepan, heat the chocolate, peanut butter and butter over low heat, stirring constantly. Once melted, remove from heat and let cool 5 minutes.
• In a large mixing bowl, add sugar, eggs and vanilla extract. Beat on high speed for 2 to 3 minutes. Pour in chocolate and beat on low speed until combined. Beat in flour on low speed until combined.
• Add a tablespoon of brownie batter to each muffin tin. Place a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup on top of each. Slightly press down to embed the peanut butter cup in the batter. Add about a teaspoon of brownie batter on top of each and spread to cover. Your peanut butter cup will now be fully encased inside the brownie.
• Bake for 20 minutes. Let cool in the pan before removing onto a cooling rack.

Notes

• Melting Chocolate: When melting the chocolate, peanut butter, and butter together, keep the heat low and stir constantly to prevent the chocolate from burning. If the mixture starts to look grainy, remove it from the heat immediately.
• Room-Temperature Ingredients: For the best texture, use room-temperature eggs. Cold eggs can cause the batter to seize and make it harder to mix properly.
• Peanut Butter Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of Reese’s, feel free to substitute with other candies like Snickers or caramel-filled chocolates. You can also experiment with Nutella for a hazelnut-chocolate filling.
• Don’t Overbake: Check the brownies early to avoid overbaking. They should be slightly soft in the center for the perfect fudgy texture.
• Cooling: Let the brownies cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. This will make them easier to remove and help them maintain their shape.