Peanut Butter Pretzel Brownies
Highlighted under: Sugar & Spice Desserts
Indulge in the perfect blend of sweet and salty with these Peanut Butter Pretzel Brownies. A delightful treat that combines rich chocolate brownies with crunchy pretzels and creamy peanut butter.
These Peanut Butter Pretzel Brownies are perfect for those who crave a combination of textures and flavors. The crunchy pretzels add an unexpected twist to the rich, fudgy brownies, while the peanut butter swirls create a creamy contrast. Ideal for parties, potlucks, or a cozy night in!
Why You'll Love These Brownies
- Decadent chocolate flavor with a delightful crunch
- Creamy peanut butter swirls for an extra layer of flavor
- Irresistibly sweet and salty combination
The Perfect Balance of Flavors
Peanut Butter Pretzel Brownies are not just a dessert; they are a delightful experience that captivates your taste buds. The rich, fudgy chocolate brownie base serves as the perfect canvas for the creamy peanut butter and crunchy pretzel topping. This harmonious blend of sweet and salty creates a decadent treat that is hard to resist. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch and a wave of flavor, making these brownies an instant crowd-pleaser.
The addition of peanut butter swirls elevates the brownies to new heights. The nutty, creamy texture complements the chocolate perfectly, providing a rich contrast that enhances every mouthful. Whether you are a chocolate lover or a peanut butter fanatic, these brownies cater to both cravings, making them the ideal dessert for any occasion.
Easy to Make and Irresistible
One of the best features of these Peanut Butter Pretzel Brownies is how easy they are to make. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch in no time. The recipe requires minimal prep work, making it perfect for both novice bakers and experienced chefs looking for a quick treat. You’ll find that the process is as enjoyable as the end result, as the aroma of baking brownies fills your kitchen.
These brownies are versatile, too! They can be served at parties, packed in lunchboxes, or enjoyed as an afternoon snack. Their unique flavor profile makes them suitable for various occasions, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. Once you make them, you’ll likely find yourself making them again and again.
Storage Tips for Freshness
To keep your Peanut Butter Pretzel Brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week, maintaining their delicious taste and texture. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy a decadent treat anytime you crave something sweet.
When you’re ready to enjoy a frozen brownie, simply let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds. The result is a warm, gooey brownie that tastes freshly baked. This makes them perfect for spontaneous cravings or when you want to impress guests with a homemade dessert.
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Peanut Butter Swirl
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Pretzel Topping
- 1 cup crushed pretzels
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Make sure to have all the ingredients ready before you start baking!
Instructions
Prepare the Brownie Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.
Make the Peanut Butter Swirl
In a small bowl, mix together the peanut butter and powdered sugar until smooth.
Combine and Bake
Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Spoon dollops of the peanut butter mixture over the brownie batter. Pour the remaining brownie batter on top and swirl with a knife.
Cool and Serve
Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before cutting into squares. Enjoy!
Let the brownies cool completely for the best texture before serving.
Creative Variations
While the classic Peanut Butter Pretzel Brownies are absolutely delicious, you can easily customize them to suit your taste. For a different twist, try adding chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans for extra crunch. You could also experiment with different types of chocolate chips, like white chocolate or dark chocolate, to create unique flavor combinations that surprise and delight.
Another fun variation is to incorporate flavors like caramel or sea salt. Drizzling caramel sauce on top before baking adds a chewy sweetness, while a sprinkle of sea salt enhances the salty-sweet balance. These twists allow you to make the recipe your own and keep it exciting for repeat baking.
Serving Suggestions
When serving Peanut Butter Pretzel Brownies, consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The cold creaminess complements the warm, fudgy brownies beautifully, creating a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures. For an added touch, drizzle some chocolate or caramel sauce over the top before serving.
These brownies also make a fantastic addition to dessert platters or bake sales. Their eye-catching appearance and mouthwatering aroma will draw people in, ensuring they won’t last long. Cut them into bite-sized squares for easy serving and to encourage guests to try more than one!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, crunchy peanut butter will add an extra layer of texture to the brownies.
→ How should I store leftover brownies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze these brownies?
Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
→ What can I use as a substitute for eggs?
You can use flax eggs or applesauce as a substitute for eggs in this recipe.
Peanut Butter Pretzel Brownies
Indulge in the perfect blend of sweet and salty with these Peanut Butter Pretzel Brownies. A delightful treat that combines rich chocolate brownies with crunchy pretzels and creamy peanut butter.
Created by: Lina
Recipe Type: Sugar & Spice Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 servings
What You'll Need
Brownie Base
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Peanut Butter Swirl
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Pretzel Topping
- 1 cup crushed pretzels
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla until well combined. Remove from heat and mix in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt until just combined.
In a small bowl, mix together the peanut butter and powdered sugar until smooth.
Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Spoon dollops of the peanut butter mixture over the brownie batter. Pour the remaining brownie batter on top and swirl with a knife. Sprinkle crushed pretzels and chocolate chips on top. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out mostly clean.
Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before cutting into squares. Enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g