Easy peanut butter cup brownies

My son is celebrating his summer birthday in school today.  He wanted something different than the traditional birthday cupcake.  When I asked him what he might want instead he said brownies.  Originally we were going to do frosted brownies with sprinkles.  Then he mentioned he wanted peanut butter brownies.  So, while he was at school yesterday I started to brain storm.  I came up with peanut butter cup brownies.  I have never had them before but the idea sounded delicious.
They're super easy for the busy mom who doesn't have time to bake.  Originally I was going to go all out homemade but I know that kids love the box stuff just as much as the 100% homemade.  I'm making these again next week for end of the year teacher gifts and there's will be from scratch.  I know they'll appreciate the yumminess of it  I'm sitting here drooling just thinking about it.

Ingredients

1. Box of your favorite brownie mix
2. the ingredients listed on the back of the brownie box (typically)-2 eggs,1/4 cup water,1/2 cup oil
3. 18 unwrapped miniature peanut butter cups

-Prepare brownie mix per directions on box



Line cupcake pan with foil liners.

Fill liners half full with brownie batter.

Then place a peanut butter cup in the center of each.

(oops...I forgot one!  I caught the slip as I was putting it into the oven)

Place pan in oven at 325 for approximately 20 minutes.

This is them baking...half way done.  Make sure to check them with a toothpick before taking them out to cool.  Toothpick should come out clean.

Finished peanut butter cup brownies.  They are a decadent treat for a special celebration or anytime!  My son has declared them the BEST brownies he's ever had!

Let me know what you think if you make them! They are pure ecstasy if you eat them while they are still warm.  Enjoy!

Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie

Since it's a hot, sweltering day for many I thought I'd share this refreshing dessert with you.  It's quick and easy which makes it a hit in our house.


Ingredients
1 (9 inch) prepared chocolate pie crust

1 (1.7 ounce) box of chocolate pudding

2 cups cold milk   
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter

1 (8 ounce) container  frozen whipped topping

3 peanut butter cups cut in half

Directions
 
Prepare pudding according to (pudding, not pie) directions on box.
Stir in peanut butter until well blended. 
Fold in whipped topping, reserving some to spread on top. 
Pour mixture into pie shell. 
Smooth out and then top with remaining whipped topping. 
Place peanut butter cup halves around the edge. 
Drizzle with melted
Freeze until set
Thaw for 2 hours in fridge before serving.
 
If you want a single slice you can defrost it in the microwave for a few seconds.  I keep my leftovers (though there's rarely any) in the freezer so the pie holds it shape, but it can be stored in the fridge.
It's easy enough to adapt this to make a reduced sugar or low fat pie.  Just replace ingredients with the reduced sugar/fat options. 
My family loves this pie and requests it often.  I love it because not only is it yummy, it's budget friendly, quick and easy to make.  It's a win-win in my book!
Please let me know if you try it and what you think.  Enjoy!