Indulge in the ultimate dessert indulgence with these decadent Better Than Crack Brownies, a triple-layered masterpiece that's bursting with sweet and salty goodness. Starting with a fudgy foundation of boxed brownies for ease and time-saving convenience, these bars are then elevated with a generous layer of gooey caramel sauce, crunchy salted peanuts, and velvety melted chocolate chips. The crown jewel is a crispy, peanut butter-chocolate topping made with crisped rice cereal for an irresistible texture. Perfectly balanced between rich, crunchy, and creamy, these no-fail brownies are a showstopper for parties, potlucks, or any dessert table. Bonus: theyβre easy to prepare in just 15 minutes, plus chilling time! With keywords like "decadent brownies," "chocolate peanut butter dessert," and "easy layered brownies," this recipe is sure to satisfy every sweet craving.
Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and prepare a 9x13-inch baking dish by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
Prepare the brownie mix according to the package instructions, using the eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
Bake the brownies in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean. Avoid overbaking.
Remove the brownies from the oven and set aside to cool slightly for about 10-15 minutes.
While the brownies are cooling, warm the caramel sauce in the microwave or on the stovetop until it's pourable. Spread the caramel evenly over the brownie layer.
Sprinkle the salted peanuts and half of the chocolate chips over the caramel layer. Press them down gently to ensure they stick.
In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine the smooth peanut butter and the remaining chocolate chips. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring after each, until melted and smooth.
Stir the crisped rice cereal into the peanut butter and chocolate mixture until well combined.
Spread the peanut butter-rice mixture over the brownie and caramel layers, creating an even top layer.
Refrigerate the assembled layers for at least 1 hour, or until the top layer is set and firm.
Once chilled, cut the brownies into squares or bars and serve. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Calories |
7230 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 425.9 g | 546% | |
| Saturated Fat | 126.6 g | 633% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 18.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 484 mg | 161% | |
| Sodium | 4540 mg | 197% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 826.8 g | 301% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 46.5 g | 166% | |
| Total Sugars | 559.9 g | ||
| Protein | 123.7 g | 247% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.4 mcg | 12% | |
| Calcium | 521 mg | 40% | |
| Iron | 61.2 mg | 340% | |
| Potassium | 2816 mg | 60% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.