As a passionate home cook, I find joy in creating desserts that evoke nostalgia and warmth. Fluffernutter Brownies are a perfect example of this, combining the rich, fudgy texture of brownies with the creamy sweetness of peanut butter and marshmallow fluff. The moment you take a bite, the aroma of chocolate mingles with the delightful scent of toasted marshmallows, transporting you back to carefree childhood days. These brownies are not just a treat; they are a celebration of comfort and indulgence, making them a must-try for any dessert lover. Trust me, once you experience Fluffernutter Brownies, they will become a cherished favorite in your home!
What is Fluffernutter Brownies?
Fluffernutter Brownies are a delightful fusion of classic brownies and the beloved fluffernutter sandwich, which features peanut butter and marshmallow fluff. Originating in New England, this dessert captures the essence of childhood nostalgia, combining rich chocolate with creamy sweetness. The result is a decadent treat that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also brings a sense of comfort and joy. With each bite, you experience the gooey marshmallow and smooth peanut butter layered atop a fudgy brownie base, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that is simply irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Fluffernutter Brownies
- Quick and easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
- Decadent flavor that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
- Versatile enough for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive celebrations.
- Made with simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.
Who It’s For
Fluffernutter Brownies are perfect for busy families looking for a quick dessert, chocolate lovers craving something indulgent, and anyone who enjoys approachable, globally inspired cooking. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned home cook, these brownies are designed to bring joy and satisfaction to all who taste them.
When to Cook It
These brownies are ideal for a variety of occasions, including weeknight dinners, birthday parties, and family gatherings. They also shine at bake sales or potlucks, ensuring you’ll be the highlight of any dessert table. Whenever you need a sweet treat, Fluffernutter Brownies are the perfect choice!
How to Make the Perfect Fluffernutter Brownies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter: Provides richness and moisture; can be substituted with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- 2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the brownies; can be replaced with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.
- 4 large eggs: Binds the ingredients together; flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water) can be used for a vegan alternative.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances flavor; use almond extract for a different twist.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Gives structure; whole wheat flour can be used for added fiber.
- 1 cup cocoa powder: Adds rich chocolate flavor; dark cocoa powder can intensify the taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness; sea salt can enhance the flavor profile.
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter: Provides a smooth, nutty flavor; almond or cashew butter can be used for a different nutty taste.
- 1 cup marshmallow fluff: Adds sweetness and a gooey texture; homemade marshmallow fluff can be made for a more natural option.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven: Set it to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
- Melt the butter: In a large bowl, melt the butter and mix in the granulated sugar until well combined, creating a glossy mixture.
- Add the eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract for a fragrant aroma.
- Combine dry ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt until evenly mixed.
- Mix wet and dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined to avoid overmixing.
- Layer the batter: Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly across the bottom.
- Prepare the fluff layer: In a separate bowl, mix the peanut butter and marshmallow fluff until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the fluff: Carefully spread the peanut butter and marshmallow mixture over the brownie layer in the pan.
- Add the final layer: Top with the remaining brownie batter, gently spreading it over the fluff layer to avoid mixing.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and serve: Allow the brownies to cool before cutting them into squares and serving, enjoying the delightful aroma!
For People with Diabetes: Sugar Substitutes
- Stevia: A natural sweetener with zero calories; use sparingly as it is much sweeter than sugar.
- Monk fruit: Another natural sweetener that has no calories and a low glycemic index; can be used in equal amounts to sugar.
- Allulose: A low-calorie sugar that tastes like sugar but has minimal impact on blood sugar; use in a 1:1 ratio for sugar.
Tools You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls (large and medium)
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Toothpick (for testing doneness)
- Cooling rack
Top Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Use Quality Ingredients: Renowned pastry chef Jacques Torres emphasizes that using high-quality chocolate and fresh ingredients can elevate your brownies to a whole new level.
- Don’t Overmix: Chef Ina Garten advises mixing just until combined to keep your brownies fudgy and moist. Overmixing can lead to a cakey texture.
- Let Them Cool: According to baking expert Sally McKenney, allowing brownies to cool completely before cutting helps achieve clean, neat squares and enhances the flavor.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Celebrity chef Alton Brown suggests adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an extra flavor boost.
- Check for Doneness: Renowned baker Dorie Greenspan recommends using a toothpick to test for doneness; it should come out with a few moist crumbs for the perfect fudgy texture.
Storing and Reheating Tips
- Room Temperature: Store leftover Fluffernutter Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness.
- Refrigeration: If you prefer a firmer texture, you can refrigerate the brownies for up to a week. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent drying out.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the brownies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Layer parchment paper between brownies to prevent sticking.
- Reheating: To enjoy warm brownies, microwave individual squares for 10-15 seconds or place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to cakey brownies instead of the desired fudgy texture. Mix just until combined for the best results.
- Not Preheating the Oven: Skipping this step can result in uneven baking. Always preheat your oven to ensure consistent heat throughout the baking process.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Cold eggs or butter can affect the batter’s consistency. Allow them to come to room temperature for better incorporation.
- Cutting Too Soon: Cutting brownies while they are still warm can lead to messy squares. Let them cool completely for clean, neat cuts.
- Ignoring the Toothpick Test: Not checking for doneness can result in undercooked or overcooked brownies. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs for perfect fudginess.
FAQs About Fluffernutter Brownies
Q: Can I make Fluffernutter Brownies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Fluffernutter Brownies a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness.
Q: Are Fluffernutter Brownies suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, Fluffernutter Brownies are vegetarian-friendly as they do not contain any meat or animal-derived ingredients, making them a delightful treat for all.
Q: Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
It depends on your texture preference. Crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful crunch to the brownies, while creamy peanut butter provides a smoother consistency.
Q: Are Fluffernutter Brownies gluten-free?
No, traditional Fluffernutter Brownies are not gluten-free due to the use of all-purpose flour. However, you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Q: How long do Fluffernutter Brownies last?
Yes, Fluffernutter Brownies can last up to 3 days at room temperature in an airtight container, or up to 2 months in the freezer for longer storage.
Conclusion: Final Thoughts on Fluffernutter Brownies
Fluffernutter Brownies are not just a dessert; they are a delightful experience that brings joy to any occasion. With their rich chocolate base and creamy peanut butter-marshmallow topping, they are sure to become a favorite in your home. I encourage you to try this recipe and share your thoughts in the comments below. If you love these brownies as much as I do, don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family!
Print
Fluffernutter Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 24 brownies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deliciously rich brownies with a creamy peanut butter and marshmallow fluff topping.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup marshmallow fluff
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, melt the butter and mix in the sugar until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- In a separate bowl, mix the peanut butter and marshmallow fluff until smooth.
- Spread the peanut butter and marshmallow mixture over the brownie layer in the pan.
- Top with the remaining brownie batter, spreading it gently over the fluff layer.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow to cool before cutting into squares and serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use dark cocoa powder.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- These brownies can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Fluffernutter Brownies, Brownies, Dessert