Peanut Butter-Hazelnut Brownies

Over the years I'd been adding this and that to my basic brownie recipe—and then I came up with this one!

Peanut Butter-Hazelnut Brownies
Peanut Butter-Hazelnut Brownies

Over the years I'd been adding this and that to my basic brownie recipe—and then I came up with this one!

  • Preparing Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Served Person: 24
  • Carbohydrate 10.8774298684135 g
  • Cholesterol 21.2201389059414 mg
  • Fat 15.3176572338247 g
  • Fiber 1.83462503503507 g
  • Protein 3.65415097458541 g
  • Saturated Fat 9.0590894508633 g
  • Serving Size 1 1 serving (66g)
  • Sodium 4812.14730516322 mg
  • Sugar 9.04280483337845 g
  • Trans Fat 0.903219959042383 g
  • Calories 184 calories

Step-by-step

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
  • In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  • Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  • Beat in vanilla.
  • Combine the flour, cocoa, baking powder and salt; gradually add to creamed mixture.
  • Fold in malted milk balls.
  • Spread into a greased 13x9-in. baking pan.
  • In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine peanut butter and Nutella; cover and microwave at 50% power for 1-2 minutes or until smooth, stirring twice.
  • Drizzle over batter; cut through batter with a knife to swirl.
  • Bake 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean (do not overbake).
  • Cool on a wire rack.

My Unexpected Brownie Adventure: A Recipe for Success (and Deliciousness!)

As a busy working mom, time in the kitchen is a precious commodity. My days are a whirlwind of school runs, client meetings, and trying to squeeze in a workout. So, when it comes to baking, I need recipes that are quick, easy, and most importantly, delicious. This Peanut Butter-Hazelnut Brownie recipe fits the bill perfectly.

I’ve always been a brownie enthusiast, but let's be honest, sometimes store-bought just doesn't cut it. The texture can be too dry, the flavor too artificial, and the overall experience just lacks that homemade touch. So I started experimenting, tweaking recipes, adding my own little twists, and gradually, over the years, I refined my perfect brownie. This particular recipe, though, was a happy accident. I was adding a dash of this and a pinch of that, experimenting with different flavor combinations, and suddenly, a culinary masterpiece emerged from my chaotic kitchen.

The initial inspiration came from a need to satisfy my family's insatiable sweet tooth. My kids, bless their hearts, can devour a whole batch of brownies in record time. But instead of resorting to unhealthy store-bought treats, I decided to create something healthier and equally delicious. The key, I discovered, lies in the balance. I kept it simple; the basic brownie base provides the perfect canvas for the star of the show—the peanut butter and Nutella swirl. This addition isn't just about taste; it's about texture. That glorious swirl of creamy peanut butter and hazelnut goodness adds a unique element, elevating the simple brownie into something truly special.

The malted milk balls add a fun, unexpected crunch. They’re the perfect textural contrast to the fudgy brownie base. This delightful combination of textures and flavors creates a brownie that is both satisfying and intriguing. I've had several colleagues praise my brownies. They are always impressed by the rich flavor and the subtle yet noticeable crunch of malted milk balls. My kids love them too, a huge bonus for any busy mom!

This brownie recipe isn't just about the deliciousness; it's about the process. It's about taking a moment amidst the chaos of daily life to create something beautiful and delicious. The aroma of warm, freshly baked brownies fills the house with a comforting warmth, instantly transforming the atmosphere. It is those small moments of joy that truly matter, particularly when shared with loved ones. And the best part? These brownies are incredibly easy to make. Even someone with limited baking experience can whip them up in no time.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It’s adaptable to your preferences, too. Want to add chocolate chips? Go ahead! Feeling adventurous? Try different nut butters or even experiment with other types of candy. The possibilities are endless, which is what makes this recipe so versatile and fun. I often find myself adapting this basic recipe. It’s a great starting point for experimentation, giving me the freedom to cater to my cravings, seasonality of ingredients or my kid's wishes.

More than just a recipe, this is a reflection of my life—a testament to the joy found in simple pleasures and the love shared over a warm, gooey brownie. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to embark on a delicious journey into the world of perfect brownies.

I hope this recipe brings you as much joy as it has brought me and my family. Let me know if you try it and how you like it!