Fudgy brownies layered with marshmallow fluff and a crunchy chocolate-peanut butter topping—an irresistible texture-packed dessert bar.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These brownies are more than just your average chocolate treat. Here’s why they’re a standout:

Triple-layered texture: fudgy, gooey, and crunchy

Easy to make with pantry staples and boxed mix
Perfect for feeding a crowd or slicing into bite-sized treats
A nostalgic twist on classic brownies with cereal crunch

Freezer-friendly and great for make-ahead desserts

Ingredients

Brownie Base:

1 box (about 19.5 oz) brownie mix (e.g., Betty Crocker Dark Chocolate)

Ingredients called for on the box (typically eggs, oil, and water)

Marshmallow Layer:

1 jar (7 oz) marshmallow crème or 2 cups marshmallow fluff

Crunch Topping:

1 cup creamy peanut butter
1½ cups semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips

3 cups crispy rice cereal

Directions

Preheat Oven:
Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or grease it well.
Bake the Brownie Base:
Prepare the brownie mix according to the package directions. Pour into the baking dish and bake as instructed. Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes.

Add the Marshmallow Layer:
While brownies are still warm, spread marshmallow fluff evenly across the top. Let cool completely until the fluff becomes slightly set.
Make the Crunch Topping:
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips and peanut butter in 30-second intervals, stirring between, until smooth.
Mix the Crunch:
Stir in the crispy rice cereal until well-coated.

Layer the Crunch:
Spread the cereal mixture gently over the marshmallow layer and smooth it out.
Chill and Set:
Refrigerate for 30–60 minutes, or until the top is firm and set.
Slice and Serve:
Cut into bars. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge.

Servings And Timing

Servings: 24 bars
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour
Calories: Approx. 360 kcal per bar

Variations

Nut-Free Version: Use sunflower seed butter and allergy-friendly chocolate.

Extra Fudgy: Underbake the brownie layer slightly for an even gooier texture.
Swirl It: Add peanut butter swirls into the brownie batter before baking.
Add Crunch: Mix in chopped pretzels or peanuts into the cereal topping.

Festive Flair: Top with holiday sprinkles or drizzle with white chocolate.

Storage/Reheating

Storage:

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.

Freezing:

Freeze individually wrapped bars for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I use homemade brownie batter instead of boxed mix?

Absolutely! Use your favorite from-scratch recipe if you prefer.

Is marshmallow fluff the same as marshmallow crème?

Yes—they’re interchangeable in this recipe.

Can I use chunky peanut butter?

Yes, but the topping may be less smooth. Creamy gives a better texture.

Do I need to refrigerate these brownies?

It’s optional, but refrigerating helps keep the layers firm and makes slicing easier.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes—use a gluten-free brownie mix and certified gluten-free crispy rice cereal.

What can I use instead of rice cereal?

Try crushed cornflakes or puffed quinoa for a similar crunch.

Why is my topping hard to spread?

If it cools too much, gently reheat the mixture in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.

Can I make this in a smaller pan?

Yes, but the layers will be thicker and may need a bit more time to set.

Is there a way to reduce the sweetness?

Use dark chocolate chips and an unsweetened peanut butter to tone it down.

Can I add more toppings?

Definitely—drizzle with extra chocolate or sprinkle with chopped nuts for added flair.

Conclusion

Brownies with Fluff and Crunch are the ultimate dessert bars for anyone who loves layers of flavor and texture. With their rich chocolate base, gooey middle, and crispy topping, they’re a guaranteed hit at any gathering—or anytime you need a little extra indulgence. Easy, fun, and wildly delicious—this is a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

Brownies With Fluff And Crunch

Author: Chef Clara

Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 24 bars 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Fudgy brownies layered with marshmallow fluff and a crunchy chocolate-peanut butter topping—an irresistible texture-packed dessert bar.

Ingredients

Scale

Brownie Base:

1 box (about 19.5 oz) brownie mix
Ingredients as listed on the box (typically eggs, oil, water)

Marshmallow Layer:

1 jar (7 oz) marshmallow crème or 2 cups marshmallow fluff

Crunch Topping:

1 cup creamy peanut butter

1½ cups semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
3 cups crispy rice cereal

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment or grease it.

Prepare and bake brownies according to package directions. Let cool for 10 minutes.
Spread marshmallow fluff over the warm brownies. Let cool until set.
Melt chocolate chips and peanut butter in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.

Stir in crispy rice cereal until evenly coated.
Spread mixture over the marshmallow layer and smooth evenly.
Refrigerate for 30–60 minutes until set.

Slice into bars and serve.

Notes

Substitute almond butter or sunbutter for a nut-free version.
For extra crunch, add chopped peanuts or pretzels to the topping.
Best enjoyed chilled but can be stored at room temp in cooler climates.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert

Method: Baking
Cuisine: American