There are few things in this world more comforting than the combination of warm chocolate and creamy peanut butter. I used to think that a perfect, gooey brownie was the ultimate expression of this combo, but then I discovered the magic of turning it into a slow cooker pudding. This Slow Cooker Peanut Butter Brownie Pudding is a game-changer. It’s a decadent, spoonable dessert that’s part fudgy brownie, part rich pudding, and 100% irresistible. It’s the perfect hands-off treat for a cozy night in, a potluck, or any time you need a serious chocolate fix without hogging the oven.
Why make this recipe
If you’re looking for a dessert that delivers maximum “wow” for minimal effort, this is it. Here’s why this recipe will become your new go-to:
- Unbelievably Easy: By starting with a boxed brownie mix and instant pudding, you take all the complicated measuring and guesswork out of the equation. It’s a simple “dump, stir, and set” kind of recipe.
- Frees Up Your Oven: Making dessert in the slow cooker is a brilliant move, especially during holidays or when you’re preparing a big meal. Your oven stays free for the main course.
- The Ultimate Texture: This isn’t just a brownie; it’s a dessert experience. You get dense, cakey brownie edges, a molten, lava-like pudding center, and the delightful crunch of peanut butter cups on top.
- A Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The classic pairing of rich chocolate and salty-sweet peanut butter is a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike. It’s pure comfort in a bowl.
Ingredients
- 1 15 ounce box brownie mix (plus ingredients to make the brownies)
- 1 cup peanut butter chips
- 1 3.4 ounce box instant chocolate pudding mix
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup chopped peanut butter cups
How to make Slow Cooker Peanut Butter Brownie Pudding
Making this decadent dessert is as simple as layering a few key ingredients. Here’s how you bring it all together:
Step 1: In a large bowl, prepare the brownie batter according to the directions on the box. Once it’s mixed, gently fold in the peanut butter chips until they are evenly distributed.
Step 2: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and the milk. Continue whisking for about two minutes, or until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
Step 3: Prepare your slow cooker by fitting it with a liner and spraying the bottom and sides generously with nonstick cooking spray. Pour the brownie batter into the bottom and spread it into an even layer. Next, gently pour the prepared pudding mixture over the top of the brownie batter.
Step 4: Place the creamy peanut butter in a small, microwave-safe bowl. Heat for about 30 seconds, or just until it becomes smooth and pourable. Drizzle the melted peanut butter over the pudding layer. Finish by sprinkling the chopped peanut butter cups evenly over the top.
Step 5: To prevent condensation from dripping onto your dessert, lay a layer of paper towels across the top of the slow cooker crock. Place the lid on securely over the paper towels. Cook on the HIGH setting for 1.5 to 2 hours. The pudding is done when the edges look set and cake-like. The center will still be very wet and gooey—that’s the “pudding” part!
How to serve Slow Cooker Peanut Butter Brownie Pudding
This dessert is at its absolute best served warm, scooped directly from the slow cooker into bowls. The contrast between the cooked brownie and the molten pudding center is what makes it so special. For the ultimate indulgence, top each serving with a big scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a generous dollop of fresh whipped cream. The cold creaminess melting into the warm chocolate and peanut butter is pure bliss!
How to store Slow Cooker Peanut Butter Brownie Pudding
If you have any leftovers, allow the pudding to cool down before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can enjoy it cold straight from the fridge, or reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30-45 seconds for that warm, gooey texture again.
Tips to make
- Don’t Skip the Liner: A slow cooker liner and nonstick spray are your best friends for this recipe. This is a sticky, gooey dessert, and this combination makes cleanup practically nonexistent.
- The Paper Towel Trick is Essential: Placing paper towels under the lid is a crucial step. It absorbs steam and condensation, which prevents the top of your pudding from becoming watery and ensures a perfect texture.
- Know Your Slow Cooker: All slow cookers heat differently. Some run hotter and faster than others. Start checking for doneness around the 1.5-hour mark to avoid overcooking the edges.
- Mix It Up: Feel free to get creative! You can swap the peanut butter chips for chocolate chunks or butterscotch chips. Instead of peanut butter cups, try topping with chopped Snickers, Reese’s Pieces, or your favorite chocolate candy.
FAQs About Slow Cooker Peanut Butter Brownie Pudding
Why is the center of my brownie pudding still so wet?
That’s exactly how it’s supposed to be! This is a “pudding cake,” designed to have a cooked, cake-like brownie layer on the bottom and a warm, liquid pudding or “lava” sauce on top. Doneness is determined by the edges being set, not the center.
Can I use a different kind of brownie mix?
Absolutely! Any standard-size (around 15-18 oz) brownie mix designed for an 8×8 or 9×9 inch pan will work perfectly. Fudge, dark chocolate, or milk chocolate brownie mixes are all fantastic choices.
Can I cook this on low?
While you can cook it on low, it will take significantly longer, likely around 3-4 hours. Cooking on high helps the brownie set properly while keeping the pudding layer molten. We recommend sticking to the high setting for the best results with this particular recipe.
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Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Peanut Butter Brownie Pudding is more than just a dessert; it’s an event. It’s the rich, comforting, and wonderfully messy treat that brings everyone together. The simplicity of the recipe means you can whip it up any time a craving strikes, and the incredible flavor will have everyone asking for the recipe. So, break out your slow cooker and get ready to fall in love with your new favorite dessert.
Print
Easy Slow Cooker Peanut Butter Brownie Pudding Recipe
- Total Time: 120 mins
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A decadent slow cooker dessert featuring a rich brownie base topped with a gooey layer of chocolate pudding, peanut butter, and peanut butter cups.
Ingredients
1 15 ounce box brownie mix (plus ingredients to make the brownies)
1 cup peanut butter chips
1 3.4 ounce box instant chocolate pudding mix
2 cups milk
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1 cup chopped peanut butter cups
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, prepare the brownie mix according to its package directions. Once mixed, stir in the peanut butter chips.
- Step 2: In a second bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and the milk until the mixture is smooth.
- Step 3: Spray the inside of a slow cooker liner with nonstick cooking spray. Pour the brownie batter into the liner, spreading it evenly. Pour the pudding mixture over the brownie batter.
- Step 4: Place the creamy peanut butter in a small, microwave-safe bowl and heat for 30 seconds, or until it is just pourable. Drizzle the warm peanut butter over the pudding layer. Sprinkle the chopped peanut butter cups on top.
- Step 5: Cover the top of the slow cooker with a layer of paper towels to catch condensation, then place the lid on securely. Cook on the high setting for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the brownie edges appear cooked and set.
Notes
All slow cookers cook differently, so your cooking time may vary. The dessert is ready when the brownie edges are set.
The top of the pudding will still look wet and gooey when it is finished cooking; this is normal.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 105 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American