If you’re hunting for a dessert that manages to marry gooey marshmallow with the irresistible crunch of chocolate and peanut butter, look no further than these heavenly Brownie Marshmallow Crunch Bars. An indulgent layering of chocolate fudge brownies, marshmallow cream, and a final crispy chocolate top make these bars a must-try dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Layered Delight: Each bite brings together fudgy brownies, creamy marshmallow, and crunchy chocolate topping.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings or parties, these bars never fail to impress.
- Easily Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to cater to personal taste preferences or dietary needs.
- Simplifies Baking: Uses ready-made mix for easy preparation without compromising on flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
While this recipe is keenly simple, the harmonious blend of these ingredients delivers an unforgettable treat. Each component adds a layer of flavor or texture that makes these Brownie Marshmallow Crunch Bars so delightful.
- Pillsbury™ Chocolate Fudge Brownie Mix (18.4 ounces): Provides a rich, chocolatey base that’s hard to resist.
- Vegetable Oil (⅔ cup): Keeps the brownies moist while ensuring a tender crumb.
- Water (¼ cup): Essential for mixing the brownie batter to the right consistency.
- Eggs (2): Helps give the brownie structure and a slightly chewy texture.
- Pillsbury™ Vanilla Marshmallow Fluffy Frost™ (12 ounces): The key to adding that dreamy, gooey middle layer.
- Semisweet Chocolate Chips (2 cups): Melts into the ultimate smooth chocolate topping with a hint of sweetness.
- Peanut Butter (1 cup): Adds a nutty backdrop that enhances the flavor of the chocolate seamlessly.
- Butter (1 tablespoon): Provides richness to the topping, helping it spread smoothly.
- Crisp Rice Cereal (1½ cups): The defining crunch element that makes these bars truly unique.
Variations
There’s nothing more fun than tailoring a recipe to fit your palate or dietary preferences. These Brownie Marshmallow Crunch Bars are perfect for a little customization to make them your own.
- Nut-Free Option: Substitute almond butter or leave out the nut butter altogether for a nut-free version.
- Dark Chocolate Lovers: Use dark chocolate chips instead of semisweet for a more intense chocolate experience.
How to Make Brownie Marshmallow Crunch Bars
Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Base
Follow the package instructions to mix the brownie mix with vegetable oil, water, and eggs. Pour the batter into a 13- x 9-inch baking pan and bake until the surface is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. This creates a chewy foundation for your bars. Once baked, let them cool for about an hour to ensure the frosting won’t melt.
Step 2: Add the Marshmallow Layer
Smooth the Vanilla Marshmallow Fluffy Frost™ over the cooled brownies, spreading it evenly. This creamy, sweet layer balances the rich brownie flavor and sets the stage for a stunning topping.
Step 3: Create the Crunchy Topping
In a small saucepan, melt together the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter over low heat, stirring until fully combined. Quickly fold in the crisp rice cereal for that essential crunch. Pour this mixture over the marshmallow layer, spreading it evenly. Chill the bars to allow the top to set before serving.
Pro Tips for Making Brownie Marshmallow Crunch Bars
- Baking Consistency: Be consistent with your oven temperature and timing to ensure even baking.
- Marshmallow Spread: Use a warm knife for easier spreading of the marshmallow layer, preventing it from sticking or tearing the brownies.
- Chill Before Cutting: Make sure to chill your bars completely before slicing to achieve clean, defined layers.
How to Serve Brownie Marshmallow Crunch Bars
Garnishes
A light dusting of confectioners’ sugar can add an elegant touch to these bars, while a few chocolate shavings on top can enhance the chocolatey experience. Alternatively, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt if you enjoy a sweet-salty profile.
Side Dishes
These bars are rich and fulfilling on their own, but serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream can take them to a whole new level. They pair well with a fresh cup of coffee for a morning treat or with a cold glass of milk for an after-dinner delight.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your Brownie Marshmallow Crunch Bars into bite-sized squares and stack them high on a cake stand for a dramatic presentation. Or, serve them in individual cupcake liners for a fuss-free, party-ready option that’s easy for guests to grab and enjoy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps them fresh without losing their delightful crunch or gooey marshmallow layer.
Freezing
These bars freeze exceptionally well! Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to three months, making them a perfect make-ahead option for busy days.
Reheating
If you like your bars warmed, allow them to thaw to room temperature before giving them a quick zap in the microwave for about 10 seconds to just slightly soften them, reviving that fresh-out-of-the-oven warmth.
FAQs
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Can I use a different type of brownie mix?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different brands or flavors of brownie mix. The texture and flavor might vary slightly, but it should still be delicious.
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What if I don’t have marshmallow fluff?
You can substitute with homemade marshmallow fluff or even a thin layer of marshmallow cream. Just make sure it’s spreadable enough to cover the brownies evenly.
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How do I keep the crispy topping from getting soggy?
Ensure the topping is well-chilled before serving. Storing them at room temperature is fine, but for up to three days only, to maintain the crunch.
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Can I make these bars vegan?
Yes! Use a vegan brownie mix, substitute eggs with a flaxseed or chia substitute, and swap out the butter for a vegan option. There are also vegan marshmallow fluff and chocolate chips available on the market.
Final Thoughts
These Brownie Marshmallow Crunch Bars are truly a delight to make and share! I hope you give them a try and that they bring as much joy to your table as they have to mine. Let them be your next dessert triumph!
Print
Brownie Marshmallow Crunch Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 20 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These irresistibly rich Brownie Marshmallow Crunch Bars combine fudgy brownie layers with a fluffy vanilla frosting, topped with a crunchy chocolate and peanut butter mixture. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, they are easy to make and delightfully indulgent, offering a decadent treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Brownie Layer
18.4 ounce package Pillsbury™ Chocolate Fudge Brownie Mix
2/3 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup water
2 eggs
Frosting
12 ounce container Pillsbury™ Vanilla Marshmallow Fluffy Frost™
Topping
2 cups (12 ounces) semisweet chocolate chips
1 cup peanut butter
1 tablespoon butter
1 1/2 cups crisp rice cereal
Instructions
- Prepare the Brownies: Follow the package directions to combine the brownie mix with vegetable oil, water, and eggs. Pour the batter into a greased 13 x 9-inch baking pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs. Remove from oven and allow to cool for approximately one hour.
- Apply Frosting: Once cooled, spread the Pillsbury™ Vanilla Marshmallow Fluffy Frost evenly over the cooled brownie layer, smoothing it out with a spatula.
- Prepare Topping: In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter. Cook and stir until the mixture is fully melted and smooth. Remove from heat and quickly stir in the crisp rice cereal until evenly coated.
- Assemble and Chill: Immediately spoon the topping over the frosting layer, spreading it gently to cover evenly. Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill until the topping has set, about 30 minutes.
- Serve: Allow the bars to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before slicing into 20 squares. These bars are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, providing a perfect balance of fudgy, fluffy, and crunchy textures.
Notes
- Ensure the brownies are completely cooled before applying the frosting to prevent melting.
- You can substitute creamy peanut butter with other nut butters for variation.
- Chilling helps the topping set firmly for clean slices.
- For extra richness, drizzle with additional melted chocolate on top before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (approx. 44g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
