Outrageous Snickers Brownies: A Heavenly Treat for Chocolate and Caramel Lovers
If you’re a fan of the irresistible combination of chocolate, caramel, and peanuts, then these Outrageous Snickers Brownies are about to become your new go-to dessert. This indulgent treat brings together everything we love about the classic Snickers candy bar, transforming it into a rich, decadent brownie that’s sure to leave your taste buds dancing. With layers of gooey nougat, luscious caramel, roasted peanuts, and a candy bar-like chocolate topping, these brownies are the ultimate indulgence for any sweet tooth. Let’s break down this showstopper dessert that’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser at any occasion.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Brownie Base:
- 1 box brownie mix (baked in a 9×9-inch pan and cooled) – Ghirardelli’s brownie mix is a great choice, but feel free to use your preferred brand.
- Eggs, oil, and water as required by your brownie mix package.
Nougat Layer:
- 1 cup marshmallow fluff – This creates the soft, airy nougat texture.
- 1 cup peanut butter – For an extra rich and nutty flavor that complements the marshmallow fluff perfectly.
Caramel Layer:
- 1 ½ cups Kraft Premium Caramel bits (or unwrapped caramels) – These will melt smoothly to create the delicious caramel layer.
- 1 tablespoon milk of choice or heavy cream – This helps make the caramel smooth and spreadable.
Peanut Layer:
- 1 cup dry roasted peanuts (or salted peanuts) – The crunchiness of the peanuts adds a delightful contrast to the gooey layers.
Candy Bar Chocolate Layer:
- 1 ½ cups chocolate chips (1 cup milk chocolate chips and ½ cup dark chocolate chips) – This creates the candy bar-like chocolate topping.
- ⅓ cup peanut butter or almond butter – The addition of peanut butter or almond butter helps the chocolate layer melt beautifully and adds a touch of creaminess.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Brownie Base
Start by preparing the brownie mix according to the instructions on the package. Use a 9×9-inch baking pan and bake the brownies as directed. Once they are baked, allow them to cool completely. This cooling step is crucial because it ensures the layers don’t mix when you start adding the nougat and caramel.
2. Make the Nougat Layer
To create the nougat layer, combine the marshmallow fluff and peanut butter in a medium-sized bowl. Use a rubber spatula or hand mixer to blend them together until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. Helpful Tip: To make it easier to stir and spread, microwave the nougat mixture for about 10-15 seconds. This softens it slightly, making it easier to work with. Once it’s ready, spread the nougat mixture evenly over the cooled brownies.
3. Prepare the Caramel Layer
In a microwave-safe bowl, place the caramel bits (or unwrapped caramels) and add 1 tablespoon of milk or heavy cream. Microwave the mixture for about 1 minute. Stir, and then heat it for an additional 30 seconds or until the caramel is completely melted and smooth. Once melted, pour the caramel evenly over the nougat layer. Use a spatula to spread it out gently.
4. Add the Peanut Layer
Immediately sprinkle the dry roasted peanuts (or salted peanuts) on top of the caramel layer. Gently press them into the caramel so that they stick but be careful not to disturb the caramel. This layer adds an irresistible crunch to the brownies, which is one of the key elements that make this dessert so special.
5. Make the Candy Bar Chocolate Layer
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and peanut butter (or almond butter). Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is completely smooth and melted. Once it’s ready, pour the chocolate mixture over the peanut layer. Spread it out evenly using a spatula, and allow the brownies to set before cutting.
6. Let the Brownies Set and Serve
Allow the brownies to set at room temperature for about 10 minutes. Then, refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes or until they are firm enough to cut into squares. When ready, slice the brownies into 16 even servings and serve.
Notes
- Peanut Butter Swaps: If you’re not a fan of peanut butter, you can easily substitute almond butter, cashew butter, or any nut butter of your choice.
- Chocolate Choices: While milk and dark chocolate work well together in the candy bar topping, feel free to experiment with other types of chocolate. White chocolate, for example, could add an interesting twist to the brownies.
- Nut Variations: While salted peanuts give these brownies a signature flavor, you can mix it up with other types of nuts, such as almonds, cashews, or even pistachios, to suit your preferences.
- Make it Dairy-Free: To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the milk chocolate chips and cream cheese with dairy-free versions. There are plenty of delicious non-dairy alternatives available today.
- Frozen Brownies: These brownies can be frozen for up to 2 months. After slicing, wrap the brownies in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container. Thaw at room temperature before serving, or enjoy them frozen for a cool treat.