Description
Craving the rich, indulgent combination of chocolate and peanut butter found in Reese’s stuffed brownies but looking for a warm, hands-off twist? Say hello to Slow Cooker Reese’s Peanut Butter Chocolate Dessert Bowl! This decadent recipe deconstructs the classic brownie, featuring a gooey, slow-cooked chocolate-peanut butter base studded with melted Reese’s cups, topped with a whipped peanut butter cream to echo the creamy frosting.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate-Peanut Butter Base
-
Brownie Mix (1 box, ~18 oz): Provides a fudgy, chocolatey foundation.
-
Substitution: Homemade brownie batter (1 cup flour, 1 cup sugar, ¾ cup cocoa powder, ½ cup melted butter, 2 eggs, 1 tsp vanilla).
-
-
Ingredients for Brownie Mix (per package): Typically eggs, oil, and water (e.g., 2 eggs, ½ cup vegetable oil, ¼ cup water).
-
Substitution: Applesauce for oil, flax eggs for eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg).
-
-
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups (12 full-sized, chopped): Adds melty, peanut buttery pockets.
-
Substitution: 1 cup peanut butter chips or chopped peanut butter candy bars.
-
-
Creamy Peanut Butter (¼ cup): Enhances nutty flavor in the base.
-
Substitution: Almond butter or sunflower seed butter for nut-free.
-
For the Whipped Peanut Butter Topping
-
Creamy Peanut Butter (½ cup): Creates a rich, nutty topping.
-
Substitution: Almond butter or sunflower seed butter.
-
-
Unsalted Butter (¼ cup, softened): Adds creaminess to the topping.
-
Substitution: Coconut oil or vegan butter.
-
-
Powdered Sugar (1 ½ cups): Sweetens and thickens the topping.
-
Substitution: Coconut sugar (blend to powder) or reduce to 1 cup for less sweetness.
-
-
Heavy Cream (3 tbsp): Lightens and whips the topping.
-
Substitution: Coconut cream or milk (texture may vary).
-
-
Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Adds warm, aromatic depth.
-
Substitution: Almond extract or omit.
-
Why They’re Important: The brownie mix and Reese’s cups deliver a fudgy, chocolate-peanut butter core, while the peanut butter enhances richness. The whipped topping provides a creamy, frosting-like finish, making each spoonful a decadent, Reese’s-inspired delight.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate-Peanut Butter Base
-
In a large bowl, prepare the brownie mix according to package instructions (e.g., mix 1 box brownie mix with 2 eggs, ½ cup vegetable oil, and ¼ cup water). Stir until just combined.
-
Fold in ¼ cup creamy peanut butter and 8 chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups (reserve 4 for topping) until evenly distributed.
-
Lightly grease the slow cooker insert with cooking spray. Pour the brownie batter into the slow cooker, spreading it evenly.
-
Tip: Use a 4-6 quart slow cooker for best results. Chop Reese’s cups into quarters for melty pockets. Avoid overmixing batter to keep it fudgy.
-
Step 2: Slow Cook the Base
-
Cover and cook on high for 2-3 hours, until the center is set but still slightly gooey (a toothpick inserted should have moist crumbs, not wet batter).
-
Turn off the slow cooker and let the base cool for 15-20 minutes in the insert to firm up slightly. It will remain soft and spoonable.
-
Tip: Place a paper towel under the lid to catch condensation and prevent a watery surface. Check doneness at 2 hours to avoid overcooking. The base will thicken as it cools.
-
Step 3: Prepare the Whipped Peanut Butter Topping
-
In a large bowl, beat ½ cup creamy peanut butter and ¼ cup softened unsalted butter with an electric hand mixer on medium speed until smooth, about 1 minute.
-
Gradually add 1 ½ cups powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated. Scrape down the bowl as needed.
-
Add 3 tbsp heavy cream and 1 tsp vanilla extract. Beat on medium-high speed for 1-2 minutes until light and fluffy. Set aside or refrigerate if not using immediately.
-
Tip: Soften butter at room temperature for easier mixing. Adjust cream (1-2 tbsp more) for a looser consistency. Store extra topping in the fridge for up to 5 days.
-
Step 4: Assemble the Dessert Bowls
-
Scoop the warm chocolate-peanut butter base into 6-8 bowls or dessert cups, creating a gooey layer (about ⅓ cup per serving).
-
Spoon or pipe the whipped peanut butter topping over the base, adding a creamy layer (about 2 tbsp per serving).
-
Chop the remaining 4 Reese’s peanut butter cups and sprinkle over the bowls for a crunchy, nutty garnish.
-
Tip: Serve the base warm for a molten texture or chilled for a fudgier consistency. Use a piping bag for a polished topping presentation. Layer ingredients in clear cups for a stunning look.
-
Step 5: Serve
-
Serve the Reese’s peanut butter chocolate dessert bowls warm or at room temperature, garnished with extra chopped Reese’s cups, a drizzle of melted chocolate, or a sprinkle of sea salt for flair.
-
Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a side of fresh strawberries for a complete dessert experience. Serve with coffee, milk, or a dessert liqueur (like Baileys) for an indulgent touch.
-
Tip: Present bowls with visible Reese’s chunks and creamy topping for an Instagram-worthy look. Serve immediately for the best texture contrast. Offer extra topping or chocolate syrup on the side for customization.
-