Peanut Butter Brookies

Introduction

These Peanut Butter Brookies are the ultimate mash-up dessert, giving you the best of both worlds in one pan. You get a fudgy brownie base topped with a chewy, peanut-packed cookie layer, all studded with Reese’s Pieces for a fun, crunchy surprise. It’s the perfect treat for anyone who can’t decide between a brownie or a cookie.

Prep & Cook Time

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Servings: 9

Ingredients

• 1 7.2-ounce packet peanut butter cookie mix ((plus ingredients on package))
• ¼ cup Reese’s pieces (plus more for sprinkling)
• 1 18-ounce box brownie mix ((plus ingredients on package))

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven according to the brownie mix package directions. Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
2. In a medium bowl, prepare the brownie batter according to the package instructions. Pour the batter evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan.
3. In a separate bowl, prepare the peanut butter cookie dough according to its package instructions.
4. Gently drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter cookie dough evenly over the entire surface of the brownie batter. Use your fingers or a spatula to carefully spread it into a mostly even layer, but it’s okay if some brownie peeks through.
5. Sprinkle the ¼ cup of Reese’s Pieces evenly over the cookie dough layer, gently pressing them in slightly. Add a few extra pieces for sprinkling on top, if desired.
6. Bake according to the brownie mix’s time and temperature guidelines, typically 28-35 minutes. Start checking for doneness at the lower end of the time range. The brookies are done when the top is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).
7. Allow the brookies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing into 9 squares.

Variations

• Swirl Design: Instead of spreading the cookie dough in a solid layer, drop it in larger dollops and use a knife or skewer to gently swirl it into the brownie batter for a marbled effect.
• Bar-Style Serving: For a cleaner presentation, chill the cooled brookies in the pan for an hour before slicing with a sharp knife.
• Mini Brookie Bites: Bake the batter in a greased mini muffin tin for about 12-15 minutes to create perfect two-bite treats.
• Cookie Dough Boost: Before sprinkling the Reese’s Pieces, press a few extra small chunks of the prepared peanut butter cookie dough into the top for extra texture.

Tips for Success

• Don’t overmix either batter; mix each just until the ingredients are combined to ensure a tender texture.
• Use the toothpick test for perfect doneness—you want moist crumbs, not liquid batter.
• For clean cuts, use a plastic knife to slice the cooled brookies; it glides through the layers without dragging.
• Let the brookies cool fully in the pan. They will continue to set as they cool, making them easier to slice.

Storage & Reheating

Store cooled brookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For a warm, gooey treat, reheat a square in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

FAQ

Can I use a different size pan?

Yes, a 9×9 inch pan will work and result in slightly thinner brookies with a shorter bake time. Watch them closely after 20 minutes.

Why do I need two separate mixes? Can’t I just combine them?

Using two separate mixes ensures each layer keeps its distinct texture and flavor. Combining them into one batter would create a single, uniform flavor and texture.

My cookie layer didn’t spread evenly. What happened?

This is common, and it’s perfectly fine! Simply drop dollops of dough and do your best to spread it. The layers will bake together beautifully even if some brownie is exposed.

Can I use homemade brownie or cookie batter instead of a mix?

Absolutely. Use your favorite from-scratch recipes for a single layer of brownie batter and a single layer of peanut butter cookie dough, adjusting the quantities to fit an 8×8 pan.

What if my peanut butter cookie mix doesn’t come with 7.2 oz packets?

Any standard-size pouch of peanut butter cookie mix (usually between 6.5 and 7.5 oz) will work perfectly. Just be sure to follow the ingredients and instructions on *that* specific package.

Can I freeze these brookies?

Yes. Slice and wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave.