Outrageous Snickers Brownies Bars

Outrageous Snickers Brownies are the ultimate dessert mashup of chewy brownies layered with gooey marshmallow nougat, sticky caramel, crunchy peanuts, and a glossy chocolate shell. If you crave the classic candy bar in a homemade treat, these brownies hit every note with perfect texture and indulgent flavor. They are crowd-pleasers that come together with simple pantry ingredients and a few shortcuts.

The first time I made these brownies for a family movie night, everyone was obsessed. Now my friends request them anytime we celebrate something sweet.

Ingredients

• Brownie mix: I look for Ghirardelli or another high-quality brand for the best chewy texture
• Eggs, oil, and water: Added to the boxed mix for richness and structure—choose fresh eggs and light neutral oil
• Marshmallow fluff: Creates the signature nougat layer, look for a fluffy and pure white option for best results
• Peanut butter or almond butter: Adds nutty flavor and helps bind the nougat, go for creamy natural styles without added sugar
• Caramels or caramel bits: Kraft works great or use any soft baking caramels for easy melting
• Milk or heavy cream: Helps soften and melt caramel for easy spreading, pick whole milk or thick cream for silkiness
• Dry roasted or salted peanuts: Brings crunch and classic Snickers flavor, go for unsalted if you want to control the saltiness
• Milk chocolate chips and dark chocolate chips: A mix of both gives a balanced chocolate finish, choose high-quality chips for melting
• Peanut butter or almond butter (for chocolate): In the chocolate for extra creaminess, use your favorite variety for best flavor

Instructions

Make and Cool Brownies:

Bake your favorite boxed brownie mix according to the package instructions using a nine-inch square pan. Allow to cool completely so your layers do not melt or blend. For the fudgiest brownies avoid overbaking and let them sit in the pan until room temperature.

Prepare Nougat Layer:

Combine marshmallow fluff with peanut butter using a hand mixer or spatula. Microwave this blend for about twelve seconds to create a spreadable texture. Smooth it evenly over the cooled brownies using a spatula for a thick and creamy layer.

Make Caramel Layer:

Place caramel bits or unwrapped caramels and milk or cream into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for one minute then stir briskly. Microwave again for another thirty seconds until smooth and pourable. Immediately drizzle over the nougat layer and quickly spread with an offset spatula.

Add Peanut Crunch:

While caramel is still gooey scatter the peanuts in an even layer across the top. Gently press them in so they adhere well but not too hard to avoid compacting the brownies.

Melt and Pour Chocolate Layer:

Mix chocolate chips with peanut butter and microwave in thirty-second bursts, stirring after each round, until completely melted and glossy. Pour over the peanut caramel and swirl or smooth into an even final layer. Let the whole pan sit until firm and set—chilling briefly in the fridge speeds this up.

Ever since I started using dark chocolate chips in the final layer, the sweet-salty balance elevated the entire dessert. My kids love helping add the peanuts, often sneaking more than a few before we finish.

Storage Tips

Cut cooled brownies into squares and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. They are even better the next day as the layers meld. For longer storage, wrap each square individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature or use the fridge for gradual defrosting.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap almond butter or sunflower seed butter for the peanut butter if there are allergies. Use chopped almonds, cashews, or mixed nuts instead of peanuts for a different crunch. For a dairy-free option, pick coconut cream in place of milk or heavy cream, and use vegan chocolate chips for the topping.

Serving Suggestions

These brownies stand alone but dress up beautifully for parties. Serve chilled for clean slices and maximum chew. For a warm treat, pop one in the microwave for a few seconds and top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also make amazing edible gifts packaged in parchment and festive ribbon.

Cultural and Historical Context

The combination of chewy brownies and classic Snickers layers is an American bake sale and potluck tradition. Inspired by the iconic candy bar launched in the early 1930s, home bakers have been recreating Snickers magic in bars and desserts for decades. This brownie version honors the best parts of that original indulgence, perfect for any Chocophile.

Seasonal Adaptations

Use chopped salty pretzels on top in place of nuts for a festive twist. Add a handful of dried cranberries in the holiday season for bright flavor. For summertime, swirl in a bit of raspberry preserves between nougat and caramel for fruitiness.

Success Stories

One of my close friends brought these to a family BBQ, and everyone insisted on the recipe. They have become a must at bake sales because they catch everyone's eye and disappear first. I even make a double batch for birthdays because guests always ask for seconds.

Freezer Meal Conversion

Pop the brownies into the freezer as a whole slab or pre-cut bars for easy snack pulls and last-minute party trays. Freezing also firms up the layers for a candy bar finish straight from the freezer—my husband actually prefers them this way. The rich caramel and fudge never get icy but just extra chewy.

Make a double batch for parties and thank yourself later. These brownies are always the first to vanish wherever you take them.

Recipe Q&A

→ How do I get the nougat layer smooth and spreadable?

Microwave the marshmallow fluff and peanut butter mix for 10–15 seconds to make spreading easier and smoother over the cooled brownies.

→ What’s the best way to melt the caramel layer?

Melt caramels with a splash of milk or cream in the microwave, whisking until smooth for an even, pourable consistency.

→ Can I substitute different nuts in the peanut layer?

Absolutely! Use any roasted or salted nuts like almonds, pecans, or cashews to vary the flavor and crunch.

→ How do I prevent the chocolate layer from cracking when cutting?

Let the assembled bars set completely, then use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry for cleaner slices.

→ Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, these bars keep well covered at room temperature or chilled for several days, making them convenient for prepping ahead.