Get ready to discover your new favorite dessert. These Peanut Butter Marshmallow Brownies are the perfect trifecta of flavor and texture, layering a rich, fudgy brownie base with a creamy peanut butter center and a perfectly toasted marshmallow topping. This is more than just a brownie; it’s an experience. Each bite is a decadent journey into chocolatey, nutty, gooey perfection that will have everyone begging for the recipe.
We’ve designed this recipe to be straightforward and completely foolproof. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, you’ll find these instructions simple and the results spectacular. Forget boring, one-note desserts; this recipe is a showstopper.
Why This Peanut Butter Marshmallow Brownies Recipe is a Must-Try
You’ll fall in love with this recipe from the very first bite. The base is an intensely chocolatey, fudgy brownie that provides the perfect foundation. It’s rich but not overly sweet, creating a beautiful balance with the toppings.
The middle layer is a smooth, creamy peanut butter mixture that melts in your mouth. Finally, a generous layer of mini marshmallows is toasted to golden-brown perfection, adding a delightful chewiness and campfire-s’mores nostalgia. It’s a truly unforgettable combination.
Ingredients You’ll Need
We’ll break down the ingredients into three simple components. Using high-quality ingredients will make a noticeable difference in the final flavor and texture.
For the Fudgy Brownie Base
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Creamy Peanut Butter Layer
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Gooey Marshmallow Topping
- 1 bag (10 ounces) mini marshmallows
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Brownies
Follow these simple steps to create the most incredible Peanut Butter Marshmallow Brownies. The key is to assemble the layers correctly for that perfect layered look and taste.
Step 1: Make and Bake the Brownie Base
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan, or line with parchment paper leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until well combined. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached. Let it cool completely in the pan.
Step 2: Add the Creamy Peanut Butter Layer
- While the brownies cool, prepare the peanut butter layer. In a medium bowl, beat the creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and softened butter with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Once the brownies are completely cool, spread the peanut butter mixture evenly over the top. If you love marshmallow desserts, you should also try our No-Bake Marshmallow Cheesecake.
Step 3: Top with Marshmallows and Toast
- Sprinkle the mini marshmallows evenly over the peanut butter layer, covering it completely.
- Set your oven to broil on high. Place the pan in the oven on a middle rack. Broil for 60-90 seconds, watching it constantly. Marshmallows burn very quickly! Remove from the oven as soon as they are golden brown and toasted.
Pro Tips for the Best Peanut Butter Marshmallow Brownies
A few simple tricks can take your brownies from great to absolutely divine. These tips ensure a perfect texture and clean presentation every time.
- Don’t Overbake the Brownies: For a truly fudgy texture, it’s crucial to pull the brownies from the oven when they are slightly underdone. A toothpick should come out with moist crumbs, not completely clean.
- Cool Completely: You must let the brownie base cool completely before adding the next layers. A warm base will melt the peanut butter filling and create a mess. Patience is key!
- Use a Hot Knife for Clean Slices: The marshmallow topping can be sticky. For beautiful, clean cuts, run a sharp knife under hot water and wipe it dry between each slice.
Fun Variations to Try
While this Peanut Butter Marshmallow Brownies recipe is fantastic as is, feel free to get creative! For another decadent treat, check out this amazing white chocolate raspberry fudge. Here are a few ideas to switch things up:
- Add a Salty Crunch: Sprinkle a handful of chopped pretzels or a flaky sea salt over the marshmallow topping before broiling.
- Chocolate Drizzle: After the toasted marshmallows have cooled slightly, drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the top for an extra layer of flavor and a professional look.
- Different Nut Butters: Try almond butter or cashew butter for a unique twist on the classic peanut butter flavor.
Storing Your Brownies
To keep your brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Due to the marshmallow topping, it’s best not to stack them. If you must, place a sheet of parchment paper between the layers. Refrigeration is not recommended as it can dry out the brownie base.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can substitute marshmallow fluff (or creme) for mini marshmallows. Spread about 7 ounces of fluff over the peanut butter layer and broil just as you would with marshmallows, watching it very carefully as it toasts quickly.
For clean, perfect squares, allow the brownies to cool completely after toasting. Then, run a large, sharp knife under hot water, wipe it dry, and make a cut. Repeat the process of heating and wiping the knife clean between each slice.
Store your Peanut Butter Marshmallow Brownies in a single layer in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. We do not recommend refrigerating them as it can make the brownie base dry.
A standard creamy peanut butter like Jif or Skippy works best for this recipe as it provides a smooth, stable filling. Natural peanut butters that separate can result in an oily or grainy texture.
This can happen if the brownie base or peanut butter layer was still warm when you added the marshmallows. It’s essential that the brownies are completely cool before you add the toppings to ensure the layers stay distinct and the marshmallows toast perfectly.
The Full Recipe
Peanut Butter Marshmallow Brownies: The Ultimate Gooey Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan, or line with parchment paper leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until well combined. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached. Let it cool completely in the pan.
- While the brownies cool, prepare the peanut butter layer. In a medium bowl, beat the creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and softened butter with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Once the brownies are completely cool, spread the peanut butter mixture evenly over the top.
- Sprinkle the mini marshmallows evenly over the peanut butter layer, covering it completely.
- Set your oven to broil on high. Place the pan in the oven on a middle rack. Broil for 60-90 seconds, watching it constantly. Marshmallows burn very quickly! Remove from the oven as soon as they are golden brown and toasted.
Notes
Tip 2: Ensure the brownie layer is completely cool before adding toppings to prevent melting.
Tip 3: Use a hot, clean knife to make clean cuts through the sticky marshmallow layer.
Share Your Creation!
We are so excited for you to try these incredible Peanut Butter Marshmallow Brownies! They are the perfect treat for any occasion. If you make them, please leave a comment below and let us know how they turned out. Don’t forget to share a picture of your masterpiece on Pinterest!
Looking for another rich, chocolatey recipe? Our chocolate cake filling is a must-try for your next baking adventure.
