Crispy Peanut Butter Chocolate Brownies

1 Box of plain chocolate brownie mix (follow directions for “Family-Size”)
½ c. chopped honey roasted peanuts
1 (10.5-oz.) package Snack Size Peanut Butter Cups, chopped
3 c. semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 T. butter
2 c. creamy good quality peanut butter
2 c. Rice Krispie cereal
1 T. vanilla
1 t. kosher salt

1. Bake the brownies according to the box instructions, following “FAMILY-SIZE” directions, in a 13×9” baking dish that is sprayed with PAM.
2. In the last 5 minutes of baking the brownies, remove pan from oven and sprinkle the chopped Peanut Butter Cups and chopped peanuts on top. Spread as evenly as you can.
3. Return to oven for 5 minutes to melt chocolate.
4. Pull pan from oven and spread the melty Peanut Butter Cups/Peanuts with a spatula to smooth over the top.
5. Let cool for 5-8 minutes.
6. In a microwave safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips, peanut butter and butter.
7. Heat in microwave for 1 minute, stirring when done. If needed, continue heating in microwave for 20 second increments until chocolate chips are melted.
8. Stir in cereal, vanilla and salt and mix until evenly combined.
9. Pour over brownies and smooth.
10. Cover with plastic wrap and place in refrigerator until chocolate is set, about 2-3 hours.
11. Cut into squares to serve.
*****I like to keep these in refrigerator but are good at room temp as well.