There's a certain comfort that comes from baking a batch of brownies, and when you introduce Reese’s Pieces into the mix, it transforms into a delightful treat that feels like a celebration! On one of those gloomy afternoons, I found myself craving something sweet and nostalgic, which led me to whip up these Homemade Reese’s Pieces Brownies with Peanut Butter Frosting. As the decadent aroma filled my kitchen, I couldn't help but remember childhood days spent devouring peanut butter cups.

These moist, fudgy brownies topped with a luscious peanut butter frosting evoke all the flavors of those beloved candies. With a mere handful of ingredients, you’ll be able to create a dessert that not only satisfies your chocolate cravings but also impresses family and friends alike. Whether you're in need of a quick pick-me-up or planning to wow guests at your next gathering, this recipe promises joy in every bite. So grab your apron and let's dive into this sweet adventure!

Why are Reese’s Pieces Brownies from Scratch irresistible?

Irresistible Comfort: There's nothing quite like the warm coziness of fresh-baked brownies, especially when they’re filled with Reese’s Pieces.

Quick & Easy: This recipe requires just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, perfect for busy schedules or spontaneous cravings.

Bold Flavor: The rich chocolate base combined with creamy peanut butter frosting creates an explosion of taste that chocolate lovers can't resist.

Versatile Treat: Customize these brownies with your favorite mix-ins or toppings, making them ideal for any occasion.

Crowd-Pleaser: Bake them for friends and family, and watch as they're devoured in no time—perfect for gatherings or just a weekend treat!

For more delicious brownie ideas, check out my Classic Brownies with a Twist.

Reese’s Pieces Brownies Ingredients

• Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth!

For the Brownies

Unsalted Butter – Richness and moisture are key; swap with coconut oil for a dairy-free twist.
Granulated Sugar – Provides the perfect sweetness; alternative sweeteners may alter texture.
Large Eggs – They bind everything together; flax eggs can be a vegan alternative.
Cocoa Powder – Essential for that deep chocolate flavor; use unsweetened or Dutch-processed cocoa.
Salt – Balances sweetness perfectly; no substitutions needed here!
Baking Powder – Ensures your brownies rise nicely; you can substitute with baking soda, but adjust the amount.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; opt for pure vanilla extract for the best taste.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; gluten-free flour is a good substitute if needed.
Mini Chocolate Chips – Add melty pockets of chocolate; dark chocolate chips offer a richer taste.

For the Peanut Butter Frosting

Creamy Peanut Butter – The foundation of the frosting, perfect for that velvety texture; chunky adds a nice crunch!
Salted Butter – Contributes to the smooth consistency; use unsalted butter and a pinch of salt if necessary.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; granulated sugar blended can be a substitute though it may change texture.
2% Milk – Adjusts the candy-like frosting consistency; feel free to use almond or other dairy-free milk options.

For the Garnish

Reese’s Pieces Candy – Adds delightful crunch and flavor; chopped peanuts or different candy can substitute for variety!

Now, with these ingredients ready, you’re all set to create the most delectable Reese’s Pieces Brownies from Scratch that your friends and family will love!

How to Make Reese’s Pieces Brownies from Scratch

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan with cooking spray or butter. This helps your brownies come out easily and prevents sticking.
Melt the unsalted butter in a saucepan over low heat until completely melted, then mix it with the granulated sugar until it becomes shiny. Make sure not to let it bubble, as this can alter the texture.
Beat the large eggs in a mixing bowl and add cocoa powder, salt, baking powder, and vanilla extract. Mix until the batter is smooth and well combined.
Combine the hot butter mixture with the egg mixture and stir until everything is fully blended and smooth. This adds richness to your brownie base.
Gradually fold in the all-purpose flour and mini chocolate chips, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!
Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan and bake for 30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center looks slightly puffy.
For the frosting, in a mixing bowl, beat the creamy peanut butter and salted butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well, and adjust the consistency using milk as needed.
Once the brownies cool, frost them generously with the peanut butter frosting, then sprinkle with Reese’s Pieces for that final touch of crunch and fun.

Optional: For an added twist, drizzle some melted chocolate over the frosting!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Reese’s Pieces Brownies from Scratch?

Indulge in a symphony of flavors that perfectly complements your rich, fudgy brownies.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold ice cream adds a delightful contrast, enhancing the sweet, chocolatey experience of the brownies.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream is the perfect touch for those looking to balance the richness of each brownie bite.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce on top for an extra chocolatey burst that will elevate your dessert game to new heights.
Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries add a tartness that wonderfully cuts through the sweetness, making each bite refreshing.
Coffee: A steaming cup of coffee brings out the deep chocolate notes in the brownies, creating a cozy pairing perfect for any afternoon.
Milkshake: A chocolate or vanilla milkshake will be a nostalgic, indulgent drink alongside your brownies, making it feel like a special treat.
Nutella Swirl: Spread a layer of Nutella between the brownie layers for an irresistible hazelnut-chocolate fusion that takes wonderful to a new level.
Peanut Butter Cup: Enhance the peanut butter flavor by serving a mini Reese's cup on the side, making it a complete candy-inspired dessert experience.
Ice Cream Sandwiches: Use the brownies as cookie layers with your favorite ice cream filling for a fun, decadent twist on the classic sandwich treat.

Reese’s Pieces Brownies Variations

Let your creativity shine as you make these brownies your own with a few delightful twists!

Dairy-Free: Swap out butter for coconut oil and use almond milk in the frosting for a dairy-free option. Enjoy all the indulgence without the dairy!
Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoon water for each egg) for a completely plant-based treat. It's a great way to share with everyone.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans into the brownie batter for extra texture and a lovely nutty flavor. The addition of nuts creates a delightful surprise in every bite!
Minty Freshness: Stir in a few drops of peppermint extract into the peanut butter frosting for a refreshing hint of mint. It’s like indulging in a peppermint patty!
Choco-Mint Swirl: Use mint chocolate chips instead of regular chocolate chips in the brownie mix for a minty chocolate kick. This twist is perfect for mint lovers!
Cookies & Cream: Substitute Reese’s Pieces with crushed Oreos for a cookies-and-cream flavor explosion. These brownies will be hard to resist!
Spicy Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the brownie mix for a subtle kick of heat that complements the chocolate beautifully. It’s an adventurous touch for daring dessert lovers.
Fruit Infusion: Fold in chopped strawberries or raspberries for a tart surprise that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the brownies. This fruity variation adds a refreshing twist!

Make Ahead Options

These Reese’s Pieces Brownies from Scratch are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the brownie batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can whip up the peanut butter frosting ahead and store it separately for up to 3 days in the fridge. To maintain quality, ensure both components are covered tight to prevent drying out. When you're ready to bake, simply pour the batter into the prepped pan and bake as directed. Frost after cooling, and enjoy delicious, homemade brownies with minimal last-minute effort!

How to Store and Freeze Reese’s Pieces Brownies

Room Temperature: Keep brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their perfect fudgy texture.

Fridge: For extended freshness, store in the fridge, covered tightly, for up to 5 days. They may become a bit firmer but still delicious!

Freezer: Freeze brownies for up to 3 months. Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight or microwave for about 10-15 seconds to warm slightly, reviving that fresh-baked taste.

Expert Tips for Reese’s Pieces Brownies from Scratch

Cool the Mixture: Allow the brownie mixture to cool slightly before mixing in the chocolate chips. This prevents them from melting and losing their shape.
Parchment Paper: Line your baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and to achieve clean, even cuts when serving.
Cutting Guide: Use a plastic knife to cut the brownies after cooling—this helps achieve neat slices without sticking.
Storage Secrets: Keep your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze for longer-lasting sweetness.
Ingredient Check: Always use room temperature eggs and butter for the best mixing results and texture in your Reese’s Pieces brownies.

Reese’s Pieces Brownies from Scratch Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best unsalted butter?
Absolutely! When selecting unsalted butter, look for packages with a high fat content (around 82%) and ensure it has a fresh, creamy smell. Fresh butter should not have any off-putting odors or strange colors. If you can, try to choose grass-fed butter for an even richer flavor in your brownies!

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very simple! To maintain the freshness of your Reese’s Pieces brownies, simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them longer, refrigerating them tightly wrapped will extend their shelf life up to 5 days. Just be aware they might get a little firmer in the fridge!

Can I freeze Reese’s Pieces brownies?
Absolutely! To freeze your brownies, first let them cool completely. Then, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, ensuring no part is exposed to air, and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be enjoyed for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

What if my brownies come out too cakey instead of fudgy?
Oh no, we want them fudgy! If your brownies turn out cakey, it might be due to overmixing the batter or too much flour being added. Make sure to fold in flour just until blended—it’s okay to have a few lumps! Also, check your oven temperature with a thermometer to ensure you're baking at the right temp. Don’t worry; they’ll still taste great!

Are these brownies safe for people with nut allergies?
It's important to be cautious! These Reese’s Pieces brownies contain peanut butter, making them unsafe for anyone with nut allergies. For a nut-free version, consider using a nut-free seed butter like sunflower seed butter instead. Always double-check labels for any cross-contamination warnings!

What if I want to modify the sweetness?
Great question! If you’re looking to lessen the sweetness in your brownies, consider reducing the amount of granulated sugar in the recipe by about ¼ cup. You can also experiment with alternative sweeteners like coconut sugar or stevia, but do keep in mind that it might slightly change the texture. Just follow the substitution guidelines on your sweetener package!