Layers of rich, fudgy brownie topped with pillowy marshmallow cream, halved peanut butter cups, and a crispy peanut butter–chocolate rice cereal topping—no complex technique, pure indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible texture contrast: fudgy brownies, creamy marshmallow layer, crunchy peanut butter–rice topping.

• Fun yet sophisticated flavors—peanut butter and chocolate bliss in every bite.

• Straightforward assembly—great for bake sales, gatherings, or a decadent treat.

• Make-ahead friendly and easily portionable for sharing or storing.

Peanut Butter Cups Marshmallow Brownie Bars

This dessert is the epitome of nostalgic chocolate indulgence elevated with playful textures and bold flavors. The foundation is a classic boxed brownie—simple, familiar, and reliably fudgy—giving every bar that beloved homemade texture without fuss. On top lies a generous layer of marshmallow creme, adding a cloud-like softness that contrasts beautifully with the dense brownie beneath. Between you and me, there’s something magical about how that marshmallow cream melts slightly into the brownies, creating a luscious, gooey layer that makes each bite feel like a warm hug.

Next, we scatter halved peanut butter cups across that marshmallow layer—bringing both creaminess and a salty-sweet punch. The peanut butter center mingles with the chocolate exterior, introducing a satisfying richness that elevates the dessert. To finish it off, a mixture of melted chocolate and peanut butter blends with crispy rice cereal to form a crunchy, settled topping that sets once chilled, offering texture and flavor marvels in every bite.

What makes these bars truly special—beyond the flavor party—is how deceptively simple they are. With just a few straight layers, minimal baking, and a short chilling time, you can assemble a dessert that feels gourmet but can be made with pantry staples. They’re ideal for when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

These bars are the kind of treat you’ll find yourself returning to again and again—they transport you straight to childhood yet feel indulgent and grown-up. Whether you’re serving friends or keeping them all for yourself, each bite is a blend of chewy, soft, creamy, crunchy, and blissfully chocolatey memories.

Servings

Makes about 24 bars (depending on slice size).

Time

• Prep time: 20 minutes

• Bake time: 30 minutes

• Chill time: 1 hour (plus optional additional refrigeration)

• Total time: Approximately 1 hour 50 minutes (including chilling)

Ingredients

• Ingredients for boxed brownie mix (typically including eggs, oil, and water)

• 7 oz marshmallow creme

• 25 mini peanut butter cups, halved

• 12 oz semi‑sweet chocolate chips

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter

• 3 cups crispy rice cereal

Instructions

1. Bake the brownies according to the box directions in a 9×13 pan; cool completely, then chill for at least 1 hour.

2. Spread an even layer of marshmallow creme over the chilled brownies and chill another 30 minutes.

3. Arrange halved peanut butter cups evenly over the marshmallow layer.

4. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and peanut butter; heat in 30-second bursts, stirring until smooth.

5. Stir in crispy rice cereal until coated; carefully spread this mixture over the peanut butter cups.

6. Chill for 1 hour before cutting into bars. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Tips

• For ultra-clean slices, chill long enough so the layers set firmly.

• Swap in dark chocolate for a richer contrast.

• Press the cereal mixture gently to adhere without breaking the layer.

• These bars hold well in the fridge—perfect for prepping in advance.