If you love chocolate and peanut butter, this Peanut Butter Brownie Dessert will quickly become a favorite. Layers of fudgy brownie, creamy peanut butter filling, light pudding mousse, and mini Reese’s candies make this dessert irresistible and perfect for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.
Layered Brownie Dessert
I enjoy making rich, gooey brownies and decadent bars because they come together quickly and always please a crowd. A simple boxed brownie mix or a favorite homemade brownie recipe creates the perfect base for this layered dessert.
This peanut butter brownie dessert has been a reliable crowd-pleaser for years. I often bring it to potlucks and events, and people always ask for the recipe. The combination of a dense brownie base, creamy peanut butter layer, airy pudding mousse, and a sprinkle of Reese’s candies is perfect for anyone who loves peanut butter and chocolate.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple to make. Using a boxed brownie mix keeps the base easy and consistent while saving time.
- Perfect for peanut butter fans. A rich peanut butter layer paired with chopped mini peanut butter cups makes this dessert especially tempting.
- Great for gatherings. It looks impressive, serves many, and is easy to transport to picnics, parties, or potlucks.
Main Ingredients
- Brownies – Use a boxed mix or a homemade brownie recipe for a chewy, fudgy base.
- Cream Cheese – Full-fat, softened cream cheese gives the filling a smooth texture.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the peanut butter cream layer without adding graininess.
- Peanut Butter – Creamy peanut butter blends smoothly, but crunchy also works if you want extra texture.
- Cool Whip – Adds lightness to both the peanut butter layer and the pudding mousse. Homemade whipped cream can be substituted.
- Pudding Mix – Instant vanilla or white chocolate pudding mix makes a quick, stable mousse when combined with milk and Cool Whip.
- Milk – 2% or whole milk gives the pudding the best texture.
- Toppings – Halved mini peanut butter cups and chopped peanuts finish the dessert with crunch and extra peanut butter flavor.
How To Make A Peanut Butter Brownie Dessert
Follow these straightforward steps to assemble the dessert:
- Bake a 9×13 pan of brownies according to the box or your favorite recipe. Allow brownies to cool completely to room temperature.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth. Add the creamy peanut butter and beat until fully combined.
- Fold 1 cup of Cool Whip into the peanut butter mixture until light and fluffy. Spread this layer evenly over the cooled brownies.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the instant pudding mix with milk until it thickens. Let it set briefly, then fold in the remaining Cool Whip to create a fluffy pudding mousse.
- Spread the pudding mixture over the peanut butter layer. Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least four hours, or until fully set.
- Before serving, sprinkle halved mini peanut butter cups and chopped peanuts over the top. Cut into 24 squares and serve chilled.
Storage Recommendations
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4–5 days. Chilling helps the layers stay firm and keeps the texture consistent.
Tips and Tricks
- Line the pan. Use parchment paper or foil in the 9×13-inch pan for easy removal and neater slicing.
- Cool completely. Be sure the brownies are fully cooled before adding the peanut butter layer to prevent it from melting.
- Chill thoroughly. Refrigerate at least an hour, preferably longer, so the layers set and slice cleanly.
- Get clean slices. Dip a sharp knife in hot water, wipe dry, and slice; repeat between cuts for neat pieces.
- Customize toppings. Add chocolate drizzle, mini chocolate chips, or peanut butter M&M’s for extra flair.
FAQs
Yes. Store-bought brownies save time and work well as the base for this dessert.
Absolutely. Make it the day before to allow plenty of chilling time—perfect for busy entertaining days.
Freezing is not recommended because whipped toppings and the pudding layer can separate and become watery when thawed.
More Peanut Butter Desserts
- Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispie Treats
- Peanut Butter Buckeye Brownies
- Reese’s Peanut Butter Cookies
- Peanut Butter Balls
- Peanut Butter Cheesecake Brownies
If you tried this recipe and enjoyed it, please leave a rating and a comment below to share your experience.
Peanut Butter Brownie Dessert
Ingredients
- 1 – 9×13 brownie mix
- 1 – 8 ounce package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 – 8 ounce container Cool Whip, thawed
- 1 – 3.3 ounce box instant white chocolate or vanilla pudding
- 1 cup milk
- 1 ½ cup halved mini peanut butter cups
- ¾ cup chopped peanuts
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13 pan with non-stick baking spray.
- Prepare the brownie mix according to the box directions. Bake and cool completely.
- Beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Add the peanut butter and beat again until combined.
- Fold 1 cup Cool Whip into the peanut butter mixture and spread over the cooled brownies.
- Whisk the pudding mix with milk until thickened. Fold in the remaining Cool Whip and spread over the peanut butter layer.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to set.
- Top with halved peanut butter cups and chopped peanuts before serving. Cut into 24 squares and store refrigerated.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 24
Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 255; Total Fat: 18g; Saturated Fat: 7g; Unsaturated Fat: 9g; Cholesterol: 11mg; Sodium: 162mg; Carbohydrates: 20g; Fiber: 2g; Sugar: 15g; Protein: 6g
Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary. Consult a registered dietitian for specific dietary needs.
This post was first published in August 2016 and updated in July 2024.