If you are craving a rich, chocolatey dessert with a playful twist, this Fluffernutter Brownies Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Combining the fudgy depth of cocoa with the nostalgic sweetness of peanut butter and marshmallow fluff, these brownies deliver a sensational harmony of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re making a batch for a family gathering or just treating yourself, these brownies are irresistibly delightful and incredibly easy to whip up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple pantry staples that come together to create the perfect balance of decadent chocolate and creamy peanut butter, with a fluffy marshmallow surprise. Each element plays an essential role in crafting a brownie that’s rich, moist, and irresistibly gooey in the middle.
- Regular unsweetened cocoa powder (1 ⅓ cups / 167.3 g): This packs the intense chocolate flavor and rich color that defines the brownie base.
- All-purpose flour (1 cup / 125 g): The structure provider, helping the brownies hold their fudgy texture without being cakey.
- Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Gives a slight lift to prevent the brownies from becoming too dense.
- Kosher salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the sweet and chocolate flavors perfectly.
- Espresso powder (1 teaspoon): A secret ingredient to elevate the chocolate’s depth without tasting like coffee.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup / 2 sticks / 227 g): Adds richness and a tender crumb, melted to blend smoothly with sugar and chocolate.
- Granulated sugar (2 cups / 400 g): The sweetness that balances the cocoa’s bitterness.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup / 168 g): Melted into the batter for smooth chocolate silkiness and occasional bursts of gooey chocolate.
- Vanilla extract (1 tablespoon): Rounds out the flavors with a mellow aromatic touch.
- Large eggs, room temperature (4): They bind the ingredients together and contribute to that fudgy texture.
- Creamy peanut butter (¾ cup / 193.5 g): Rich and nutty, this layer brings the signature “Fluffernutter” flavor to the brownies.
- Marshmallow fluff (1 cup / 96 g): Creates the luscious, sweet, and airy swirls that sandwich the peanut butter layer.
How to Make Fluffernutter Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Set your oven to 350°F and line a 9×13-inch ceramic baking dish with parchment paper. This ensures the brownies don’t stick and slide out easily once baked.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, baking powder, kosher salt, and espresso powder. This combination of dry ingredients creates the foundation for your rich, fudgy brownies.
Step 3: Melt Butter and Sugar
In a sturdy saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and add the granulated sugar. Let it come to a low boil and maintain it for about 2 minutes while stirring occasionally. This step is crucial for developing that deep caramelized flavor in your brownie.
Step 4: Incorporate Chocolate and Vanilla
Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and vanilla extract until fully melted. Your mixture might look a bit grainy — that’s totally normal. Allow it to cool for roughly 10 minutes, so the eggs won’t cook when added later.
Step 5: Add Eggs
Add the eggs one at a time to the chocolate mixture, stirring constantly to create a smooth, glossy batter. This step is what gives your brownies a velvety texture.
Step 6: Combine Dry and Wet
Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the chocolate batter until just combined. The batter will be thick and luscious, the perfect consistency for creating layers.
Step 7: Assemble Layers
Spoon half of the batter evenly into the lined baking dish and spread it smooth. Then dollop and spread the creamy peanut butter over the brownie base. Next, pipe or dollop marshmallow fluff over the peanut butter layer, creating fluffy white clouds that promise sweet surprises. Finish by spreading the remaining brownie batter on top in an even layer.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Bake the assembled brownies for 28 to 30 minutes, until the edges are set but the center still looks fudgy. Let the brownies cool completely to allow the layers to set perfectly before slicing into squares.
How to Serve Fluffernutter Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar or add a few mini marshmallows on top for extra whimsy and texture. A drizzle of melted peanut butter or fudge sauce can also amp up the peanut-chocolate appeal for serving.
Side Dishes
These brownies shine with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh berries or a drizzle of raspberry coulis can add a lively fruit contrast that cuts through the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform this Fluffernutter Brownies Recipe into elegant dessert bars by cutting them into bite-sized squares and serving on decorative trays at a party. You can also layer brownie chunks in a trifle with whipped cream and banana slices for a playful twist on a classic dessert.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep their chewy, fudgy texture. For longer freshness, refrigeration helps but might slightly firm up the marshmallow layer.
Freezing
Wrap brownies tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen brownies stay delicious for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature when ready to eat for the best texture.
Reheating
Warm brownies gently in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds to bring back their soft, gooey goodness. Avoid overheating, which can harden the marshmallow fluff layer and dry out the peanut butter.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, you can substitute natural peanut butter, but it may be a bit looser or oilier, which could slightly affect the texture of the peanut butter layer. Stir well before spreading for best results.
Is it possible to make these brownies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend that measures 1:1 in baking. Just make sure your cocoa powder and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Can I make mini Fluffernutter brownies in a muffin pan?
Definitely! Adjust the baking time to about 18 to 20 minutes and keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking. They make fun, portable treats perfect for parties or school snacks.
Why is espresso powder included in the recipe?
Espresso powder enhances the chocolate flavor without adding a coffee taste. It intensifies the richness and depth, making the chocolate notes more vibrant and complex.
Can I substitute marshmallow fluff with marshmallows?
You can, but the texture will be different. Mini marshmallows will melt and create a gooey layer rather than the smooth, spreadable fluff swirl. For the classic look and texture, marshmallow fluff is recommended.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to indulge in a brownie that’s truly next-level, the Fluffernutter Brownies Recipe is calling your name. Its delightful layers of chocolate, peanut butter, and marshmallow fluff come together in perfect harmony to create a treat that’s comforting, nostalgic, and absolutely crave-worthy. Dive in, share with your loved ones, and enjoy every gooey, chocolaty bite. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will hold a special place in your dessert rotation forever.
PrintFluffernutter Brownies Recipe
Indulge in these decadent Fluffernutter Brownies, a rich chocolate treat layered with creamy peanut butter and sweet marshmallow fluff. This recipe combines fudgy cocoa brownies with the nostalgic flavors of a fluffernutter sandwich, creating a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12-16 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ⅓ cups (167.3 g) regular unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon espresso powder
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks / 227 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 2 cups (400 g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (168 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
Fillings
- ¾ cup (193.5 g) creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup (96 g) marshmallow fluff
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch ceramic baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the brownies.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, baking powder, kosher salt, and espresso powder until well combined. Set this mixture aside.
- Melt Butter and Sugar: Place the unsalted butter and granulated sugar in a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the butter is fully melted. Continue heating the mixture to a low boil and cook for about 2 more minutes, or until it reaches 230°F on an instant-read thermometer.
- Add Chocolate and Vanilla: Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and vanilla extract until the chocolate has completely melted, though the mixture may appear slightly grainy. Let this cool for approximately 10 minutes.
- Incorporate Eggs: Add the eggs to the chocolate mixture one at a time, stirring constantly after each addition until the batter is smooth and fully combined.
- Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the chocolate batter, mixing gently until just combined. The batter will be thick and fudgy.
- Assemble the Brownies: Spread half of the brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Carefully spread the creamy peanut butter over this layer. Using a piping bag or a plastic bag with a small corner cut, pipe the marshmallow fluff evenly over the peanut butter layer. Finally, dollop and spread the remaining brownie batter over the marshmallow fluff layer.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 28 to 30 minutes. The brownies should be set but still moist in the center when done.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the baking dish. Once cool, cut into squares and serve.
Notes
- Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
- An instant-read thermometer is helpful to achieve the perfect temperature when cooking the butter and sugar mixture.
- Use parchment paper lining to make removal and cleanup easier.
- For more pronounced espresso flavor, you may increase the espresso powder slightly, but do not overpower the chocolate.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
- These brownies are indulgent and rich, best enjoyed in small portions.
