This sweet treat mixes gooey marshmallows with creamy peanut butter for a delightful snack! It’s a simple combination that brings together two favorite flavors in a fun way.
Trust me, once you start munching on these, you won’t want to stop! I love making them for friends—they’re always a big hit and disappear super fast! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Unsalted butter gives you control over the salt level. If you’re dairy-free, use a vegan butter alternative. I sometimes use coconut oil, which adds a subtle flavor.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is key for sweetness and texture. You can replace half with brown sugar for added moisture and a richer flavor. It’s a personal fave of mine!
Eggs: They bind everything together and add moisture. For a vegan version, use flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) for a similar binding effect.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa gives that deep chocolate flavor. Dutch-processed cocoa can be used if you want a milder taste; just watch the leavening agent since it reacts differently with baking soda.
Marshmallows: Mini marshmallows are great for an even layer. If you want fewer calories or a healthier option, look for sugar-free alternatives or try homemade marshmallow fluff!
How Do You Swirl Peanut Butter Without Making a Mess?
Swirling peanut butter can be tricky, but with a few tips, it’s easy. Start by warming the peanut butter slightly, so it’s easier to spread. Here’s how to do it:
- Warm the peanut butter for 10-15 seconds in the microwave.
- Use a spoon to drop small dollops of peanut butter onto the marshmallows.
- With a knife or skewer, gently swirl the peanut butter into the marshmallow layer. Go for a simple back-and-forth motion to create a marbled effect.
- Avoid stirring too much to keep those beautiful swirls visible!
This technique adds visual appeal and ensures the flavors are spread throughout without losing that delightful mixture.
Marshmallow Peanut Butter Brownies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups mini marshmallows or large marshmallows cut in half
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter, slightly warmed for easy spreading
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious treat will take about 15 minutes of preparation time and another 30-35 minutes for baking. Don’t forget to allow time for the brownies to cool completely before cutting them into squares—it’s worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Get a 9×13 inch baking pan and grease it or line it with parchment paper to make removal easy later on.
2. Melt the Butter:
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter until it’s completely melted. Give it a moment to cool slightly so it doesn’t cook the eggs when mixed together.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and well combined.
4. Combine with Butter:
Pour the melted butter into the sugar-egg mixture. Whisk again until everything is nicely blended.
5. Add the Dry Ingredients:
Next, sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gently fold these dry ingredients into the wet mix with a spatula. Be careful not to overmix—you want it just combined!
6. Layer the Batter:
Pour half of the brownie batter into your prepared pan and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
7. Add Marshmallows:
Evenly distribute the mini marshmallows over the brownie batter. It’s like a fluffy layer of goodness!
8. Swirl in the Peanut Butter:
Now, drop small dollops of warm peanut butter over the marshmallows. Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the peanut butter into the marshmallow layer to create a marbled effect.
9. Finish with the Remaining Batter:
Pour the remaining brownie batter over the marshmallow and peanut butter layer. Spread it gently to cover without disturbing the layers below.
10. Bake the Brownies:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the top is set, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
11. Cool and Slice:
Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This step is crucial! Once cooled, cut them into squares.
12. Serve and Enjoy!
Indulge in the rich, chocolaty brownies with the gooey marshmallow center and creamy peanut butter ribbons. Perfect for sharing or just treating yourself!
These brownies are truly magical and taste even better than they look! Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use a Different Type of Nut Butter?
Absolutely! If you prefer almond butter or cashew butter, feel free to substitute! Just ensure it’s smooth for easy spreading and you might enjoy a new flavor twist!
How Can I Make These Brownies Healthier?
To lighten them up, consider using natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey in place of granulated sugar. You can also swap half the flour with almond flour or whole wheat flour for added nutrition.
Can I Use Gluten-Free Flour?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute for regular all-purpose flour. Just check that it includes xanthan gum or add about 1/4 teaspoon to help with binding!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before enjoying!
