Reeses Skillet Brownie Dessert combines the irresistible flavors of rich chocolate brownies with the creamy peanut butter goodness of Reese’s cups, all baked to perfection in a cast-iron skillet. This indulgent treat takes your classic brownie experience to new heights with its molten center, crispy edges, and generous chunks of Reese’s Pieces Cookies scattered throughout. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving something decadent, this showstopping dessert is guaranteed to satisfy any chocolate and peanut butter lover.
Nutritional Benefits
While this dessert is certainly indulgent, it does offer some nutritional benefits. The peanut butter component provides protein and healthy fats, while dark chocolate contains antioxidants. When enjoyed in moderation, this treat can be part of a balanced lifestyle.
| Nutrition | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 385 |
| Carbohydrates | 42g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 28g |
| Calcium | 45mg |
| Iron | 2mg |
Ingredients & Substitutions
| Ingredient | Role | Possible Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| 1 cup unsalted butter | Provides moisture and richness | Coconut oil or plant-based butter |
| 2 cups granulated sugar | Sweetens the brownie base | Brown sugar or coconut sugar |
| 4 large eggs | Binds ingredients and adds structure | Flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) |
| 2 tsp vanilla extract | Enhances flavor | Almond extract |
| 1 cup all-purpose flour | Forms the base structure | Gluten-free flour blend |
| 3/4 cup cocoa powder | Provides chocolate flavor | Dutch-processed cocoa for a richer taste |
| 1/2 tsp salt | Enhances flavor | Sea salt |
| 1 cup chocolate chips | Adds melty chocolate pockets | Chopped chocolate bars |
| 12 Reese’s peanut butter cups, chopped | Main flavor element | Homemade Reese Cups or other peanut butter candy |
| 1/2 cup Reese’s Pieces | Colorful topping and texture | Peanut butter chips or chopped peanuts |
| Vanilla ice cream (for serving) | Complements warm brownie | Peanut butter ice cream or whipped cream |
Equipment Needed
– 10-12 inch cast iron skillet
– Mixing bowls (large and medium)
– Electric mixer or stand mixer
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Rubber spatula
– Parchment paper (optional)
– Cooling rack
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare: Set your oven to 350Ā°F (175Ā°C). If your cast iron skillet isn’t well-seasoned, lightly grease it with butter or line with parchment paper.
2. Melt the Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter in 30-second intervals until completely liquid. Allow to cool slightly.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until well combined. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
5. Create Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Fold in the chocolate chips and half of the chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups.
6. Transfer to Skillet: Pour the batter into your prepared skillet, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
7. Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining chopped Reese’s cups and Reese’s Pieces Cookies crumbles over the top of the batter, gently pressing them in slightly.
8. Bake: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The edges should be set while the center remains slightly soft. For the perfect Reeses Skillet Brownie Dessert, don’t overbake ā a slightly gooey center is ideal!
9. Cool Slightly: Allow the brownie to cool in the skillet for 10-15 minutes before serving.
10. Serve: For the ultimate experience, top warm slices with vanilla ice cream and enjoy the perfect blend of warm brownie and cold ice cream.
Troubleshooting & Pro Tips
– Skillet Temperature: If your skillet is still hot from preheating, reduce baking time by 2-3 minutes to prevent overbaking.
– Checking Doneness: Insert a toothpick 2 inches from the edge ā it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.
– Texture Perfection: For fudgier brownies, reduce baking time by 3-4 minutes; for cakier texture, add 3-4 minutes.
– Even Distribution: Chop the Reese’s cups into various sizes for different texture experiences throughout the brownie.
– Flavor Boost: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top before serving to enhance the chocolate-peanut butter contrast.
– Serving Suggestion: For a restaurant-style presentation, serve in wedges directly from the warm skillet.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
– Room Temperature: Cover the cooled skillet with foil and store at room temperature for up to 2 days.
– Refrigeration: For longer storage, cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 5 days. The texture will become more fudge-like when cold.
– Freezing: Cut into portions, wrap individually in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.
– Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave for 20-30 seconds before serving.
– Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the batter up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate. Bring to room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.
Conclusion
This Reeses Skillet Brownie Dessert offers the perfect balance of rich chocolate brownies and creamy peanut butter cups in a format that’s both impressive and easy to prepare. The cast iron skillet creates those coveted crispy edges while maintaining a soft, gooey center that pairs perfectly with ice cream. Whether you’re a fan of Reese’s Pieces Cookies or just love the classic chocolate-peanut butter combination, this decadent dessert is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite Reece Peanut Butter Cup ideas for a personalized touch that makes it uniquely yours.
FAQ
Can I make this in a regular baking pan instead of a cast iron skillet?
Yes! A 9×9 inch square baking pan works well. Adjust baking time as needed, typically 25-30 minutes.
How do I know when my brownie skillet is done?
The edges should be set and slightly pulled away from the sides of the skillet, while the center should be slightly soft but not liquid.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
What if I don’t have Reese’s cups on hand?
You can substitute with any peanut butter cups, or create a swirl of peanut butter directly into the batter.
Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Yes! Chopped peanuts, walnuts, or pecans make excellent additions. Add about 1/2 cup to the batter.
Follow me on Pinterest for more Reeses Skillet Brownie Dessert.
