Introduction
Reeses Skillet Brownie Dessert is the ultimate indulgence for anyone who craves the perfect marriage of chocolate and peanut butter. This delectable treat combines the fudgy goodness of brownies with the iconic flavor of Reese’s cups, all baked to perfection in a cast-iron skillet for that irresistible crispy edge and gooey center. As someone who has experimented with countless Reese Pieces Cookies recipes, I can confidently say this skillet brownie takes your dessert game to an entirely new level. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility—whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself after a long day, this showstopping dessert is guaranteed to impress.
Nutritional Benefits
While this Reeses Skillet Brownie Dessert is certainly an indulgent treat, it does offer some nutritional benefits. The peanut butter component provides protein and healthy fats, while dark chocolate contains antioxidants. When enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet, this dessert can be a satisfying way to curb sweet cravings.
| Nutrition | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 385 |
| Carbohydrates | 42g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Saturated Fat | 9g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 28g |
| Sodium | 180mg |
Ingredients & Substitutions
| Ingredient | Role | Possible Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| 1 cup unsalted butter | Provides moisture and richness | Coconut oil (for dairy-free option) |
| 2 cups granulated sugar | Sweetener | Brown sugar or coconut sugar |
| 4 large eggs | Structure and binding | Flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) |
| 1 tbsp vanilla extract | Flavor enhancer | Almond extract (use half the amount) |
| 1 cup all-purpose flour | Structure | Gluten-free flour blend (1:1 ratio) |
| 3/4 cup cocoa powder | Chocolate flavor | Dutch-processed cocoa for deeper flavor |
| 1/2 tsp salt | Flavor enhancer | Sea salt or kosher salt |
| 1 cup chocolate chips | Added chocolate richness | Chopped chocolate bar or chocolate chunks |
| 12 Reese’s peanut butter cups, chopped | Main flavor component | Mini Reese’s cups or Reese’s Pieces |
| 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter | Swirl and flavor | Crunchy peanut butter or almond butter |
| Vanilla ice cream (for serving) | Complements warm brownie | Peanut butter ice cream or whipped cream |
Equipment Needed
– 10-inch cast iron skillet
– Mixing bowls (large and medium)
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Whisk
– Rubber spatula
– Microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan
– Parchment paper (optional, for easier removal)
– Cooling rack
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). If your cast iron skillet isn’t well-seasoned, lightly grease it with butter or line with parchment paper for easier removal.
2. Melt Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan, melt the butter completely. Allow it to cool slightly before using.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until 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 the flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
5. Create Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Fold in half of the chocolate chips and half of the chopped Reese’s cups.
6. Prepare Skillet: Pour the brownie batter into your prepared cast iron skillet, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
7. Add Peanut Butter Swirl: Warm the peanut butter in the microwave for about 20 seconds to make it more pourable. Dollop spoonfuls of peanut butter on top of the batter and use a knife to create swirls throughout.
8. Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips and Reese Pieces Cookies over the top of the batter. Press the remaining chopped Reese’s cups slightly into the surface.
9. Bake: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center should still be slightly gooey. For the perfect Reeses Skillet Brownie Dessert, avoid overbaking – it will continue to set as it cools.
10. Cool: Let the brownie cool in the skillet for at least 15 minutes before serving.
11. Serve: For the ultimate experience, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
Troubleshooting & Pro Tips
– Skillet Temperature: Cast iron retains heat, so the brownie will continue cooking slightly after removal from the oven. For a gooier center, remove it a minute or two earlier than you think necessary.
– Peanut Butter Swirls: If your peanut butter is too thick to swirl, mix it with 1-2 teaspoons of neutral oil before warming it.
– Edge Lovers: If you prefer the crispy edges, use a smaller skillet for a thicker brownie with more edge area.
– Cutting Clean Slices: Let the brownie cool completely before cutting if you want clean slices. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts.
– Chocolate Choices: For a more complex flavor, use a mix of semi-sweet and dark chocolate chips.
– Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick about 2 inches from the edge of the skillet – it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not completely wet batter.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
– Room Temperature: Store leftover brownie covered with foil or plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days.
– Refrigerator: For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. The texture will become more fudgy when chilled.
– Freezer: Cut into individual portions, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
– Reheating: To enjoy warm, microwave individual portions for 20-30 seconds, or place the skillet in a 300°F oven for 5-10 minutes.
– Make-Ahead: Prepare the batter up to a day ahead and refrigerate in an airtight container. Let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
Conclusion
The Reeses Skillet Brownie Dessert is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience that brings together the nostalgic flavors of chocolate and peanut butter in a warm, comforting format. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this decadent creation delivers satisfaction in every bite. The beauty of this recipe is how easily it can be customized—add more Reese Pieces Cookies for extra crunch, or experiment with different types of chocolate for varied flavor profiles. No matter how you customize it, this skillet brownie is guaranteed to become a favorite in your dessert rotation.
FAQ
Can I make this in a regular baking pan instead of a cast iron skillet?
Yes! A 9×9-inch baking pan works well as a substitute. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly, so keep an eye on it.
How do I know when my brownie is done?
The edges should be set and slightly pulled away from the sides of the skillet, while the center should still be slightly soft. A toothpick inserted about 2 inches from the edge should come out with a few moist crumbs.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
What’s the best way to serve this dessert?
For the ultimate experience, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The contrast between the warm, gooey brownie and cold ice cream is divine.
Can I use natural peanut butter in this recipe?
Yes, though the consistency might be different. Natural peanut butter tends to be runnier, which actually makes it easier to swirl into the batter.
Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?
Yes, substitute the butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips and peanut butter cups (some specialty brands make these).
Follow me on Pinterest for more Reeses Skillet Brownie Dessert. If you’re looking for other delicious peanut butter treats, you might enjoy my Homemade Reese’s Eggs which are perfect for holiday celebrations!