Essential Ingredients for Your Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cup Brownies

These show-stopping peanut butter cup brownies deliver an explosion of chocolate peanut butter flavor, all while using a remarkably straightforward list of ingredients. Let’s delve into what you’ll need to create this amazing gluten-free dessert:

• Our Easy Gluten-Free Brownie Base (or Your Favorite Gluten-Free Box Mix): For the most decadent results, we highly recommend our homemade gluten-free brownie recipe, found in the recipe card below. This fudgy foundation is crafted from pantry staples: rich **butter**, sweet **brown sugar** and **granulated sugar**, binding **eggs**, fragrant **vanilla extract**, a high-quality **gluten-free measure-for-measure flour blend**, intense **cocoa powder** (Dutch-processed is fantastic for a darker, less acidic flavor), and a pinch of **salt** to balance the sweetness. The measure-for-measure flour is crucial as it already contains xanthan gum, which is vital for the structure and texture of gluten-free baked goods. If using another brand, ensure it contains xanthan gum for optimal results.
• Peanut Butter Cups: The star of the show! We love using a mix of both whole and roughly chopped peanut butter cups. This creates an exciting textural contrast and ensures a delightful burst of peanut butter in every bite – a truly happy surprise! Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups are a classic choice, and many varieties are certified gluten-free (always check labels for the latest information). Alternatively, brands like Justin’s or unREAL also offer delicious gluten-free (and often dairy-free) options.
• Salty Peanuts: Don’t underestimate the power of a good crunch and a hint of salt! Roughly chopped, salted peanuts break up the smooth textures and add a fantastic savory counterpoint to the sweetness of the brownies and peanut butter cups. This layer is essential for that perfect sweet and salty balance.
• Gluten-Free Crisp Rice Cereal: This is key to achieving that signature crispy, crunchy topping. It’s important to note that traditional Rice Krispies brand cereal in the U.S. is not gluten-free due to malt flavoring. Look for dedicated gluten-free brands such as One Degree Organic Foods or Aldi’s Millville brand. Barbara’s also makes a great gluten-free option.
• Peanut Butter: While you can use crunchy peanut butter, creamy smooth peanut butter is often preferred for the top layer, creating a luxurious and even spread. We typically gravitate towards natural peanut butter (containing only peanuts, or peanuts and salt) for a more pronounced peanut flavor, but feel free to use your preferred creamy peanut butter. Just ensure it’s well-stirred if using a natural variety where oil separates.
• Chocolate Chips: To craft that luscious chocolate peanut butter topping, you’ll need a good quality chocolate. We recommend using **semisweet or dark chocolate chips**. Their slightly less sweet profile helps to balance the overall richness of the brownies, preventing the dessert from becoming overly saccharine. Milk chocolate chips can also be used if you prefer a sweeter profile, but adjust accordingly.

Short on time? A Boxed Brownie Mix is an excellent alternative! We completely understand that sometimes you just need a shortcut. While our homemade recipe yields exceptional results, a quality gluten-free brownie mix can be a fantastic time-saver. After conducting extensive taste tests, our top recommendation for the best taste and texture goes to King Arthur Baking’s Gluten-Free Brownie Mix. Using a mix will simplify the initial brownie baking step, allowing you to focus on assembling the delicious layers.

Crafting Your Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cup Brownies: A Step-by-Step Guide

For precise ingredient measurements and detailed instructions, please refer to the full recipe card located further down.

Making these gluten-free peanut butter cup brownies is a rewarding process that results in an absolutely divine dessert. Follow these steps carefully to ensure every layer is perfect:

First, Prepare the Fudgy Gluten-Free Brownie Base

1. Preheat the Oven & Prepare Your Pan: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch square metal baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides to easily lift the brownies out later. Lightly grease the exposed sides of the pan or the parchment itself if desired.
2. Whip Eggs & Sugars for Fudginess: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and eggs. Using an electric mixer, beat these ingredients on medium-high speed for 3-4 minutes. This crucial step incorporates air, resulting in a lighter-colored, triple-volume, glossy mixture where most of the sugar has dissolved. This aeration contributes significantly to the brownies’ ultimate fudgy texture and shiny, crackly tops.
3. Incorporate Butter & Vanilla: Gently add the cooled melted butter and vanilla extract to the whipped egg mixture. Beat on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to deflate the airy egg mixture you’ve just created.
4. Fold in Dry Ingredients: Sift or whisk together your gluten-free measure-for-measure flour, cocoa powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Using a rubber spatula, gently fold until just combined. Overmixing gluten-free flour can lead to tougher brownies, so stop as soon as no dry streaks remain.
5. Layer Batter & Peanut Butter Cups: Pour exactly half of the brownie batter into your prepared baking pan. Spread it evenly to create a uniform bottom layer. Now, arrange 8-9 whole peanut butter cups across the surface of the batter, spacing them out. Fill any visible gaps with halved or quartered peanut butter cups. This ensures every slice gets a generous portion of peanut butter goodness. Carefully spoon the remaining brownie batter over the peanut butter cups, gently spreading it to cover them completely.
6. Bake the Brownies to Perfection: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs or streaks of chocolate, but no wet batter. They should look set around the edges but still slightly soft in the middle for maximum fudginess.
7. Cool Brownies & Prep for Layers: Remove the brownies from the oven and transfer the pan to a wire rack to cool for at least 15-20 minutes. While they cool, seize the opportunity to measure and prepare the ingredients for your next layers, such as chopping your salted peanuts and getting your crisp rice cereal ready. This cooling period is important before adding the warm peanut butter layer to prevent it from melting into the brownies.

Assemble the Irresistible Peanut Butter Crunch Layers

1. Create the Chocolate Peanut Butter Topping: In a small saucepan over low heat, or in a medium microwave-safe bowl, gently melt the chocolate chips, creamy peanut butter, and butter together. Stir frequently until the mixture is completely smooth and glossy. If using a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each to prevent the chocolate from scorching. This will form the rich, pourable base for your crispy topping.
2. Layer and Spread for Perfection: Once your brownies have slightly cooled, evenly sprinkle the chopped salted peanuts over the entire surface. Follow this with an even layer of gluten-free crisp rice cereal. This duo provides the fantastic crunch. Carefully pour the warm, melted chocolate peanut butter mixture over the peanuts and cereal. Using a spatula or an offset spatula, gently spread the topping into an even layer, ensuring it covers all the crunchy bits and extends to the edges of the pan.
3. Chill Until Fully Set: This is a critical step that cannot be rushed! Transfer the brownies to the refrigerator and chill for a minimum of 2-3 hours. This extended chill time allows the chocolate peanut butter crunch layer to firm up completely. You’ll know it’s ready when the topping is no longer wet, sticky, or glossy, but instead has a matte, firm appearance. Rushing this step will result in a messy, sliding topping when you try to slice.
4. Slice & Serve Your Decadent Treat: Once thoroughly chilled and set, use the parchment paper overhang to carefully lift the entire brownie slab out of the pan. Place it on a cutting board. Using a sharp, warm knife (you can warm it under hot water and wipe it dry), cut the brownies into 16 perfect squares. For parties or dessert platters, you can even cut them into smaller, bite-sized rectangles. Serve and watch them disappear!
5. Proper Storage for Leftovers: Any leftover brownies should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer enjoyment, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, storing them in an airtight freezer bag in the freezer for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature or in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQ & Expert Tips for The Best Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Crunch Brownies

To ensure your gluten-free peanut butter cup brownies turn out absolutely perfect every time, consider these frequently asked questions and helpful tips:

Plan Ahead for Optimal Setting! While these gluten-free peanut butter crunch brownies are incredibly easy to make, they do require a significant amount of chill time. This is non-negotiable for achieving that beautifully set, non-gooey crunch layer. Ensure you allocate a full 2-3 hours for refrigeration. If the peanut butter crunch layer isn’t completely firm, it will be wet, sticky, and frustratingly slide off when you attempt to slice your delicious brownies. Patience here truly pays off!

Are Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups Gluten-Free? This is a common and important question for those with gluten sensitivities. Generally, **most Reese’s peanut butter cup products are considered gluten-free**. However, it’s crucial to be aware that their seasonal shapes (such as eggs, pumpkins, or trees) typically do not contain gluten ingredients but may carry a risk of cross-contact or cross-contamination during manufacturing. Because formulations can change, always check the packaging for the most current allergen information. You can also refer to Hershey’s official list of gluten-free peanut butter cups here. For guaranteed gluten-free options, you can also use brands like Justin’s or unREAL, many of which are also dairy-free, catering to additional dietary needs.

What Size Peanut Butter Cups Work Best? The choice of peanut butter cup size is entirely up to your preference and what’s available! For a visually appealing and satisfying result, we generally recommend using **full-size Reese’s cups** to cover most of the brownie surface. Then, you can fill in any smaller gaps with halved or quartered peanut butter cups. This method ensures a good distribution of peanut butter in most bites. If you opt for mini cups or snack-size peanut butter cups, you’ll likely find that each bite contains a bit more chocolate relative to the peanut butter, which might be exactly what you prefer!

Can I Make These Brownies Dairy-Free? Yes, with a few thoughtful substitutions! For the butter in the brownie base and chocolate peanut butter layer, you can use a high-quality dairy-free butter alternative (like Miyoko’s Kitchen Cultured Vegan Butter or Earth Balance Vegan Butter Sticks). Ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free (many dark chocolate brands are). Lastly, double-check that your chosen peanut butter cups (like certain varieties of Justin’s or unREAL) are certified dairy-free, in addition to being gluten-free.

How to Achieve the Fudgiest Brownies? The key to ultimate fudginess lies in not overbaking! Brownies are often done when the edges are set, but the center still appears slightly underbaked or wobbly. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with moist crumbs, not liquid batter, but also not completely clean. Removing them from the oven at this stage allows them to finish cooking as they cool, resulting in that desirable dense, fudgy texture. Also, whipping the eggs and sugars well, as described in step 2, significantly contributes to that classic fudgy texture and crinkly top.

How to Store These Reese’s Brownies for Freshness: Proper storage is key to enjoying your brownies for days! Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer preservation, wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight freezer-safe bag or container and store in the freezer for up to 1 month. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours before enjoying.

Explore More Epic Gluten-Free Brownie Recipes

If you’ve fallen in love with these gluten-free peanut butter cup brownies, you’re in for a treat! We have a whole collection of incredible gluten-free brownie recipes that are just as fudgy, delicious, and easy to make. Dive into these other favorites:

Gluten-Free Oreo Brownies

Gluten-Free Toffee Brownies

Gluten-Free Caramel Pretzel Brownies

Gluten-Free Peppermint Crunch Brownies

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