January 24, 2024
Review RecipeCandy Bar Brownies
![close up shot of Candy Bar Brownies stacked on top of each other](https://spaceshipsandlaserbeams.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/candy-bar-brownies-recipe-card-268x268.jpg)
Table of Contents
These candy bar brownies combine chewy, fudgy brownies with the flavors and textures of popular candy bars. With a deep chocolate flavor and moist, dense texture, they’re irresistible.
![close up shot of Candy Bar Brownies stacked on top of each other](https://spaceshipsandlaserbeams.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/candy-bar-brownies-hero1.jpg)
Candy Bar Brownies Ingredients
![Candy Bar Brownies raw ingredients that are labeled](https://spaceshipsandlaserbeams.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/candy-bar-brownies-ingredients.jpg)
By combining two of the best sweet snacks, chocolate and candy bars, these candy bar brownies are unlike any other baked good.
They’re perfect for anyone who loves rich, multi-textured desserts.
To make these decadent brownies, you’ll need:
For The Brownies:
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour (plus 1 tablespoon for tossing the chocolate chunks)
- ⅔ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup of salted sweet cream butter
- 4 ounces of bittersweet baking chocolate
- 2 cups of granulated sugar
- 2½ teaspoons of pure vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 (11.5-ounce) package of semi-sweet chocolate chunks
For The Candy Bar Topping:
Use your favorites. For our recipe, we used:
- ½ cup of Whoppers candy
- ½ cup of chopped Hershey’s candy bar
- ½ cup of chopped Kit Kat candy bar
- ½ cup of chopped Milky Way candy bar
Substitutions And Additions
CANDY BARS: It does not matter if the candy bars you use are full-size or fun-size.
These are great brownies to make after Halloween when you have an abundance of leftover Halloween candy on hand.
Depending on the chocolate bars used, there might be elements of caramel, nougat, peanuts, or other nuts.
This can add a sweet, sticky, or crunchy contrast to the soft brownie base. Some candy bars have a salty component (like peanuts or pretzels), which can provide a salty-sweet balance in the brownies.
- Snickers: You might taste nougat, caramel, and peanuts.
- Twix: You’d get layers of caramel and a cookie crunch.
- Reese: There would be a distinct peanut butter flavor.
- Rolo: A creamy center adds pockets of caramel, making each bite unique.
COCOA POWDER: If you fancy a different kind of chocolatey taste, try replacing regular cocoa powder with Dutch-processed cocoa. It has a smoother and deeper chocolate flavor but may darken your brownies slightly.
You could also use special dark cocoa powder for a richer flavor.
VANILLA EXTRACT: Almond extract could be used in place of vanilla for a different flavor profile. This could pair particularly well if you’re adding chocolate bars with almonds to your brownies.
Be aware, that almond extract has a stronger flavor, so use about half the amount.
ADDITIONS: Feel free to toss in some nuts for an added crunch. Walnuts or pecans would go nicely with this recipe.
How To Make This Candy Bar Brownies Recipe
Here’s how to whip up a batch of these scrumptious treats:
STEP ONE: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Be sure to leave an overlap or “sling” of parchment paper. Set it aside.
STEP TWO: Whisk together one cup of flour and the unsweetened cocoa powder in a small mixing bowl. Set it aside.
![flour and unsweetened cocoa powder whisked in a bowl](https://spaceshipsandlaserbeams.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/candy-bar-brownies-step1.jpg)
STEP THREE: Toss the chocolate chunks in one tablespoon of flour. Remove the excess flour and set it aside.
![flour and chocolate chunks tossed in a bowl](https://spaceshipsandlaserbeams.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/candy-bar-brownies-step2.jpg)
STEP FOUR: Using a two or three-quart saucepan over low heat, add the butter and chopped baking chocolate.
Stir constantly until the butter and chocolate are completely melted. Transfer the melted chocolate mixture to a large bowl to cool.
The mixture won’t be hot, just slightly warm.
![butter and chocolate stirred in a pot](https://spaceshipsandlaserbeams.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/candy-bar-brownies-step3.jpg)
STEP FIVE: Whisk in the granulated sugar and vanilla extract.
STEP SIX: Whisk in the eggs, one at a time, until well combined.
![eggs whisked with the butter mixture in a bowl](https://spaceshipsandlaserbeams.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/candy-bar-brownies-step4.jpg)
STEP SEVEN: Stir in the cocoa and flour mixture, and be sure not to over-mix, just until no streaks of flour are visible.
![flour and cocoa stirred in a bowl](https://spaceshipsandlaserbeams.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/candy-bar-brownies-step5.jpg)
STEP EIGHT: Fold in the flour-coated chocolate chunks.
STEP NINE: Spoon in and evenly spread the brownie mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes away with only a slight bit of brownie crumbs.
PRO TIP:
Oven temperatures vary and may need to be recalibrated periodically to ensure they are accurate. Make sure to check your brownies at the lower end of the recommended baking time.
![Candy Bar Brownies baked in a baking dish](https://spaceshipsandlaserbeams.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/candy-bar-brownies-step6.jpg)
STEP TEN: Allow the brownies to rest for five minutes.
Break the candy bars into small bite-sized pieces or chop them with a knife.
Consider freezing candy bars before chopping. This can make them easier to handle, especially if they have gooey centers.
Sprinkle the candy bar pieces over the top of the brownies. I sprinkled the larger chopped pieces first and ended with the Whoppers.
![chopped candy bars sprinkled on top of the brownies in a baking dish](https://spaceshipsandlaserbeams.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/candy-bar-brownies-step7.jpg)
Before storing, always allow the brownies to cool completely to room temperature. This prevents condensation from forming, which can make the brownies soggy.
How To Cut Brownies Made With Candy Bars
When cutting brownies, especially those with heavier toppings like candy, here’s how to get clean slices without disturbing the toppings:
- Cool Completely: Before attempting to cut the brownies, ensure they have cooled completely. This will help solidify the candy toppings and make the brownie base firmer and easier to cut.
- Use a Sharp Knife: A sharp knife will glide through the brownies more easily, reducing the chance of dragging or crushing the candy toppings.
- Lift with a Spatula: Once you’ve made your cuts, use a spatula to lift each brownie square out of the pan. This ensures that the candy toppings remain intact on the brownie.
MORE BROWNIE RECIPES
Troubleshooting This Recipe
My brownies are too dry
Solution: Reduce the baking time or check your oven’s temperature with an oven thermometer to ensure it’s accurate.
Also, ensure you’re not over-mixing the batter, as this can develop the gluten and make the brownies tougher.
My brownies are too gooey or undercooked
Solution: Ensure you’re using the right size baking pan as recommended in the recipe.
You can extend the baking time slightly, but remember that brownies continue to cook a bit as they cool.
My brownies have a hard or crunchy top
Solution: This can be due to over-mixing or too much sugar. Follow the recipe closely, and mix just until combined.
My brownies stuck to the pan
Solution: Ensure you’re properly greasing the pan or using parchment paper. Let the brownies cool completely before attempting to remove them.
Brownie edges are hard compared to the center
Solution: Use an oven thermometer to check for hot spots in your oven. You can also consider investing in a baking pan with even heat distribution.
How To Serve
SERVE WITH ICE CREAM: Serve a brownie square with a scoop of homemade vanilla ice cream on top.
For added decadence, drizzle one of these sauces on top:
SERVE WITH A HOT DRINK: When pairing hot drinks with candy bar brownies, consider the primary flavors in the chocolate bars you’ve added.
The key is to either complement or contrast the flavors for a harmonious pairing. Our mint hot chocolate works particularly well.
Other options include our vanilla latte, coconut milk latte, homemade hot chocolate, or a hot toddy.
SERVE WITH A COLD DRINK: You can never go wrong serving brownies with a glass of cold milk.
However, if you’d like to take your menu up a notch, serve with specialty coffees such as an iced macchiato or frappuccino. Cold iced tea or strawberry sweet tea are also great choices.
If you simply can’t get enough chocolate, try our mint chocolate chip milkshake, peanut butter frozen hot chocolate, or frozen hot chocolate recipes.
MAKE THEM A GIFT: Package them nicely and give them as a unique gift, especially to someone who loves a particular candy bar.
SERVE THESE BROWNIES WITH
When To Serve
HALLOWEEN: Use fun-sized chocolate bars to make these brownies and serve them at a Halloween party.
EASTER: Incorporate popular Easter eggs into your brownies. Think Cadbury Creme Eggs, Mini Eggs, and chocolate bunnies.
SUPER BOWL & SPORTS EVENTS: If it’s a big game or a celebratory match, the added candy can be a fun treat for everyone.
BIRTHDAY PARTIES: Kids, teens, and adults love chocolate bars and brownies, so they are sure to be a big hit.
For chocoholics, these brownies can even be served instead of birthday cake. Be sure to decorate the top of the brownies with the birthday person’s favorite candy.
FATHER’S DAY: Candy bar brownies featuring dad’s favorite chocolate bars can be a memorable Father’s Day treat.
WORK EVENTS: Celebrating a colleague’s birthday or a team achievement? Bring in candy bar brownies for a sweet surprise.
Storing Candy Bar Brownies
Candy bar brownies contain additional ingredients from the candy bars, which might affect their shelf life.
It’s always a good idea to consider the specific candies used and their storage recommendations when deciding how to store your brownies.
All that being said, this recipe is versatile when it comes to storage. With the right approach, you can savor their rich, chocolaty goodness anytime you crave it.
MAKE AHEAD: This candy bar brownie recipe is a fantastic one to prep ahead of time, especially if you’re expecting company or planning a future treat.
You can easily prepare the brownie mix and bake it a day in advance:
- After baking, allow them to cool completely, and then cut them into squares. Don’t add the candy bars just yet, though.
- Keep the brownie squares in an airtight container at room temperature. If you don’t have an airtight container, you can wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- On the day of serving, simply reheat them slightly and add the candy bars on top for that just-baked taste and freshness.
ON THE COUNTER: If you plan to consume them quickly, storing them at room temperature is ideal.
In an airtight container, they’ll stay fresh on the counter for up to three days.
If you’re stacking brownies in a container, place a sheet of parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together.
PRO TIP:
Store these away from moisture-prone areas. Excess moisture can make them soggy.
IN THE FRIDGE: If you want to extend their freshness, you can store the brownies in the refrigerator for up to five days.
Refrigeration can alter the texture slightly, making them a bit firmer. Before serving, let them come to room temperature to enjoy the full range of textures and flavors.
Remember, brownies can absorb strong odors, so it’s best to store them away from foods with strong smells, especially if stored in the refrigerator.
IN THE FREEZER: For longer storage, candy bar brownies can be frozen.
Wrap individual brownies or the entire batch tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil or place them in a zip-top freezer bag.
Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to three months.
When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw at room temperature or in the refrigerator before serving.
![an overhead of Candy Bar Brownie in a baking dish](https://spaceshipsandlaserbeams.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/candy-bar-brownies-hero2.jpg)
Why We Love This Recipe
Great Way to Use Leftover Candy: Especially after holidays like Halloween or Easter, candy bar brownies can be a delicious way to use up excess candy.
Surprise: Depending on the candy bar used, every bite can offer a different taste or texture, such as the crunch of nuts, the chewiness of caramel, or the creaminess of nougat. It’s like a surprise in each mouthful.
Versatility: You can use almost any candy bar, from nut-filled to caramel-centered, allowing for endless variations and flavors.
Creativity: Making candy bar brownies allows for creativity. You can mix and match different candy bars, layer them, or even create themed brownies for special occasions.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
You can freeze these soft brownies that are loaded with candy. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months.
Make sure to wrap them in at least two layers of plastic wrap to protect the candy bars from freezer burn.
This easy brownie recipe is very flexible, and you can top them with any combination of your favorite chocolate, including Reese’s peanut butter cups, Almond Joy, or other favorites. Just pick your favorite candy bar and have fun!
If you want a quick and easy treat, you could make these loaded fudgy candy bar brownies using a boxed brownie mix and then add your favorite candy bars on top.
You’ll be on your way to chocolate heaven with just a few simple ingredients! Trust me, once you try these fudgy brownies topped with their layer of candy bars, you’ll never look back!
If you’re torn between reaching for a candy bar or baking brownies, candy bar brownies satisfy both cravings at once.
They’re such a fun twist on traditional brownies. The combination of chocolate from the brownie with other flavors from the candy bar, like peanut butter or mint, can create wonderful flavor combinations.
More Brownie Recipes
![close up shot of Candy Bar Brownies stacked on top of each other](https://spaceshipsandlaserbeams.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/candy-bar-brownies-recipe-card-268x268.jpg)
Candy Bar Brownies
Ingredients
Brownies
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, for tossing the chocolate chunks
- ⅔ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 11.5 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chunks
- 1 cup salted sweet cream butter
- 4 ounces bittersweet baking chocolate
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
Candy Bar Topping
- ½ cup Whoppers candy
- ½ cup Hershey’s candy bar, chopped
- ½ cup Kit Kat candy bar, chopped
- ½ cup Snickers candy bar, chopped
- ½ cup Milky Way candy bar, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Be sure to leave an overlap or “sling” of parchment paper. Set it aside.
- Whisk together 1 cup of flour and unsweetened cocoa powder in a small mixing bowl. Set it aside.
- Toss the chocolate chunks in the 1 tablespoon of flour. Remove the excess flour and set it aside.
- Using a 2 to 3-quart saucepan over low heat, add the butter and chopped baking chocolate. Stir constantly until the butter and chocolate are completely melted. Transfer the chocolate mixture to a large mixing bowl to cool. (The mixture won’t be hot, just slightly warm.)
- Whisk the granulated sugar and vanilla into the cooled chocolate and butter.
- Whisk in the eggs, one at a time, until well combined.
- Stir in the cocoa and flour mixture, and be sure not to over-mix, just until no streaks of flour are visible.
- Fold in the flour-coated chocolate chunks.
- Spoon in and evenly spread the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes away with only a slight bit of brownie crumbs. Allow the brownies to rest for 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle the chopped candy bars over the top of the brownies. (I sprinkled the larger chopped pieces first and ended with the Whoppers). Allow the brownies to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- You can break the candy bars into small bite-sized pieces or chop them with a knife.
- Oven temperatures vary and may need to be recalibrated periodically to ensure they are accurate. Make sure to check your brownies at the lower end of the recommended baking time.
- You can allow the brownies to rest for up to 15 minutes before adding the candy pieces.
- The multiple layers of plastic wrap are necessary due to the changes that happen to candy in the freezer.
Nutrition
Even More Recipes You’ll Love
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- Brookies
- Blondies
- 7 Layer Bars
- Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Mini Cheesecake
- Coconut Cream Bars
Comments
Lori Pennington says
My favorite candy bar is 3 musketeers…….I love home made brownies better then box ones….
Kai Butler says
My favorite candy bar is a Snickers but only if my sugar level is too low
Maureen says
I have definitely made brownies before. I love a good gooey fudgy brownie. My favorite candy bar is 3 Musketeers. These cover just about every flavor of candy bars. I also love Milky Way. I would definitely add caramel since that is my favorite. These sound like a really rich brownie and I would serve it with milk.
You have really come up with some surprising good new recipes.
Cara says
Homemade brownies are the best! We’ve tried them all different ways but never with candy bars on top. My favorite candy bar is Kit Kat or maybe Twix.
Elizabeth M Heimlich says
I have made home made brownies before, but none with all the added candy… looks very sweet!
Lisa-Marie says
My favourite chocolate bar is twix!
Kelly Kardos says
I do make my own brownies…AND I bought chocolaty Halloween candy that I know I’ll have left over to bake with!!
Johanna says
Definitely need to wash that down with milk
Linda says
Years ago, this would have been one of my favorite recipes to make! My favorite candy bar is Butterfingers!(gluten free!) Now, because I’m A diabetic and also gluten and dairy intolerant, I have to settle for drooling over what I used to love to eat!
Margaret Pyette says
I am such a chocolate lover and this brownie looks amazing!! My neighbor kids always share some of their Halloween treats, now I can share back!! 🎃
Brenda Hess says
I have made homemade brownies many times
Angie says
Favorite candy bar is Reese’s peanut butter cups. The big cups.
Never made homemade brownies
Shaunda Snider says
My favorite candy bar kid Heath.
This recipe looks amazing! I cannot wait to try it.
Audrey says
Looks amazing & I would serve with ice cream yum
Rodie says
I love the 100 Grand candy bar. Brownies are way better home made and the texture is better than cake.
Betty Hansen says
My favorite candy bar is Mounds. I only make homemade brownies which are the best. I would serve with ice cream and can always add extra fudge and some peanut butter with chocolate is the best!
Sheila Gromatzky says
My favorite candy bar is Peanut Butter Cup.
Teresa Gerber says
My favorite candy bar is Recees peanut butter cup!!
Sherrijo capodiferro says
This is over-the-top fabulous!!!! My favorite candy bar is reeses peanut butter cups, so I added those along with reeses pieces. Next time I’ll definitely add a peanut butter swirl.
Stephanie says
I really look forward to making these brownies & add in some caramel fudge & then serve these scrumptious brownies with vanilla ice cream😃
Melissa says
I haven’t made homemade brownies before but this recipe looks super delicious! I live brownies with ice cream and topped with caramel! I think these would be great with snickers or Milky Way bars. Can’t wait to give it a try! I know my kids will love it too!
Stella says
What is my favorite candy bar? Any with peanut butter and caramel in them!
Have you made brownies before? Yes, I have.
Would you serve it with milk or ice cream? Ice cream!
Would you serve extra caramel or fudge? I would drown it with caramel!
Would you add a swirl of peanut butter? YES!!
Karen says
My favorite is a Heath bar!
Darrul C says
The candy topping would be changed to no kitkats or whoopers BUT Almond Joys!!!
Gabriela B. says
I’d make these with Heathe bars.