Peanut Butter Overload Brownies

This rich Easter peanut butter overload brownie recipe transforms a simple box mix into a showstopping holiday treat. The combination of fudgy chocolate brownies, creamy peanut butter frosting, and festive Easter candy creates the ultimate spring dessert that both kids and adults will devour.

I started making these brownies a few years ago when I needed a last minute Easter dessert. Now my family specifically requests them every spring, and they disappear faster than the Easter Bunny can hide eggs.

• Box brownie mix: Plus required eggs, oil and water listed on package for the perfect fuss free base
• Reese's Spring Sprinkles Big Cups: Or wrapped chocolate eggs add festive peanut butter chocolate chunks throughout
• Spring egg peanut butter M&Ms: Provide colorful Easter flair and crunchy texture contrast
• Salted butter: Makes the frosting extra rich, use room temperature for best results
• Powdered sugar: Creates that perfectly smooth frosting texture
• Creamy peanut butter: Opt for a commercial brand like Jif or Skippy for consistent results
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the peanut butter flavor profile
• Heavy cream: Thins the frosting to spreadable consistency

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the brownie base:

Mix your brownie batter according to package directions ensuring not to overmix. Pour into a parchment lined 9 inch square baking dish that has been sprayed with baking spray for easy removal. Gently fold in the chopped Reese's cups or eggs and crushed M&Ms distributing them evenly throughout the batter. Bake according to package instructions until the center is just set but still slightly fudgy when tested with a toothpick.

Cool completely:

Allow the brownies to cool fully in the pan before attempting to frost. This crucial step prevents the frosting from melting and ensures clean slices later. For faster cooling place the pan on a wire rack away from heat sources or pop in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.

Make peanut butter frosting:

Beat together the softened butter and peanut butter in a large bowl until completely smooth and creamy about 2 minutes. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream beating continuously until light and fluffy. Add additional cream if needed to achieve a silky spreadable consistency that holds its shape.

Frost and decorate:

Once brownies are completely cooled spread the peanut butter frosting in an even layer across the top reaching all corners. Work quickly with a spatula or offset knife for the smoothest finish. Immediately sprinkle additional chopped Reese's cups and M&Ms over the frosting pressing gently to secure them in place before the frosting sets.

Chill and slice:

Refrigerate the decorated brownies for 15 to 30 minutes to allow the frosting to set which makes cutting much cleaner. Use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts to slice into even squares. Let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving for the best taste and texture.

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The peanut butter frosting is absolutely my favorite part of this recipe. I discovered this specific ratio of ingredients after many test batches and it reminds me of the peanut butter frosting my grandmother used to make for my birthday cakes as a child. The consistency is just right not too sweet but perfectly creamy against the rich chocolate brownies.

Storing Your Brownies

These brownies stay fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage refrigerate them for up to a week. The peanut butter frosting firms up when chilled so I recommend letting refrigerated brownies sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. You can also freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

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Seasonal Variations

While this recipe features Easter candy you can easily adapt it for any holiday or occasion. Try Halloween with orange and black M&Ms and Reese's pumpkins. For Christmas use red and green M&Ms with Reese's trees. Valentine's Day works beautifully with conversation heart candies and red M&Ms. You could even create a birthday version with standard Reese's cups and colorful sprinkles mixed into both the batter and frosting.

Serving Suggestions

These brownies are decadent on their own but can be elevated further by serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. For a truly indulgent dessert warm individual brownies for 10 seconds in the microwave before adding the ice cream. At Easter brunch serve them alongside fresh berries to balance the richness. For a fun party display cut them into smaller bite sized pieces and arrange on a tiered serving tray decorated with Easter grass and small chocolate eggs.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use natural peanut butter for the frosting?

It's best to use commercial creamy peanut butter (like Jif or Skippy) rather than natural peanut butter for the frosting. Natural peanut butter can separate and create an oily or grainy texture in frosting. If you only have natural peanut butter, make sure it's very well mixed and consider reducing the amount of heavy cream since natural varieties tend to be thinner.

→ What can I substitute for the seasonal candies?

If you can't find the seasonal Reese's or peanut butter M&Ms, you can substitute regular Reese's peanut butter cups (chopped), Reese's Pieces, regular peanut butter M&Ms, or any combination of peanut butter and chocolate candies. Mini peanut butter cups also work great as they require less chopping.

→ Can I make these brownies from scratch instead of using a box mix?

Absolutely! If you prefer to make brownies from scratch, use your favorite fudgy brownie recipe that fits a 9-inch square pan. Follow the recipe as written, folding the candies into your homemade batter before baking, then proceed with the frosting and toppings as directed.

→ How do I store these brownies and how long do they last?

Store these brownies in an airtight container. They'll keep at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. The frosting firms up when chilled, so if you prefer a softer texture, let refrigerated brownies sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes, these brownies freeze well! Cut them into squares first, then place in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers. They'll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or for a few hours at room temperature before serving.

→ My peanut butter frosting is too thick/thin. How do I fix it?

If your frosting is too thick, add more heavy cream, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. If it's too thin, add more powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons at a time, and beat well after each addition. The frosting should be smooth and spreadable but firm enough to hold the candy toppings.