Peanut Butter Pretzel Brownies

Highlighted under: Treats & Confections

Indulge in the irresistible combination of rich chocolate brownies, crunchy pretzels, and smooth peanut butter. These Peanut Butter Pretzel Brownies are the perfect sweet and salty treat for any occasion.

Emma

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-01-04T03:42:28.339Z

These Peanut Butter Pretzel Brownies are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The combination of rich chocolate and crunchy pretzels paired with creamy peanut butter creates a dessert that is simply irresistible. Perfect for parties, get-togethers, or just a cozy night in, these brownies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!

Why You'll Love These Brownies

  • The perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors
  • Decadent chocolate brownie base with a crunchy pretzel topping
  • Easy to make and perfect for sharing

The Ultimate Dessert Experience

These Peanut Butter Pretzel Brownies offer a unique dessert experience that combines the best of both worlds. The rich, fudgy brownie base serves as a canvas for the creamy peanut butter swirl and the salty crunch of pretzels. This dynamic trio of flavors creates a delightful treat that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these brownies are sure to impress.

By blending sweet and salty elements, these brownies cater to a wide range of palates. The chocolate and peanut butter provide a comforting sweetness while the pretzels introduce a satisfying crunch. This layered texture not only enhances the overall flavor but also makes every bite an adventure. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a harmonious blend that is both decadent and enjoyable.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Peanut Butter Pretzel Brownies are an excellent choice for any event, from birthday parties to family gatherings. Their appealing taste and eye-catching presentation make them a versatile dessert that fits well in various settings. You can easily prepare a batch for a potluck, bake sale, or simply to enjoy at home. Their adaptability makes them a go-to recipe for both casual and special occasions.

Moreover, these brownies are simple enough to make, even for novice bakers. The straightforward steps ensure that anyone can whip up a delicious batch without feeling overwhelmed. In just about an hour, you can have a delightful treat ready to share with friends and family, making it a practical choice for those with busy schedules.

Storage and Serving Tips

To maintain the freshness of your Peanut Butter Pretzel Brownies, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture. If you’d like to enjoy them warm, a quick 10-second zap in the microwave can bring back that fresh-from-the-oven taste.

When serving, consider pairing these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent treat. You can also garnish them with additional crushed pretzels or a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance their appeal. These simple additions can elevate your brownies to a new level of deliciousness and impress your guests even more.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before starting to make the process smoother.

For the Brownies

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder

For the Peanut Butter Swirl

  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar

For the Pretzel Topping

  • 1 cup pretzels, coarsely crushed
  • 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create delicious brownies.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking pan.

Mix Brownie Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar. Mix in the eggs and vanilla extract until well combined. Add the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder, stirring until smooth.

Prepare Peanut Butter Swirl

In a small bowl, mix together the peanut butter and powdered sugar until smooth.

Assemble the Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan. Drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter mixture on top and swirl with a knife for a marble effect. Sprinkle the crushed pretzels on top.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before cutting into squares and serving.

Enjoy your delicious Peanut Butter Pretzel Brownies!

Nutritional Information

These Peanut Butter Pretzel Brownies, while indulgent, can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. They provide a good source of energy due to the carbohydrates in the sugar and flour, while the peanut butter adds healthy fats and protein. However, moderation is key, as with any dessert. A small square can satisfy your sweet cravings without overindulging.

If you're looking to lighten the recipe, consider using a sugar substitute or whole grain flour. These small tweaks can make the brownies slightly healthier while still maintaining their delicious flavor. Just be sure to adjust baking times as needed to ensure the best results.

Variations to Try

Get creative with your Peanut Butter Pretzel Brownies by experimenting with different ingredients. For instance, you can swap out the peanut butter for almond butter or cashew butter for a unique twist. You can also add nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added texture and flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try incorporating a layer of caramel sauce for a gooey surprise.

For those who prefer a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. This small change allows everyone to enjoy these delicious brownies without compromising on taste. You can also top them with a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the sweet and salty flavor profile.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, crunchy peanut butter will add extra texture to the brownies.

→ How should I store these brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and they can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for granulated sugar?

You can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor, although the texture may vary slightly.

Peanut Butter Pretzel Brownies

Indulge in the irresistible combination of rich chocolate brownies, crunchy pretzels, and smooth peanut butter. These Peanut Butter Pretzel Brownies are the perfect sweet and salty treat for any occasion.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration25 minutes
Overall Time40 minutes

Created by: Emma

Recipe Type: Treats & Confections

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 16 brownies

What You'll Need

For the Brownies

  1. 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  2. 1 cup granulated sugar
  3. 2 large eggs
  4. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  5. 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  6. 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  7. 1/4 teaspoon salt
  8. 1/4 teaspoon baking powder

For the Peanut Butter Swirl

  1. 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
  2. 1/4 cup powdered sugar

For the Pretzel Topping

  1. 1 cup pretzels, coarsely crushed
  2. 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking pan.

Step 02

In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar. Mix in the eggs and vanilla extract until well combined. Add the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder, stirring until smooth.

Step 03

In a small bowl, mix together the peanut butter and powdered sugar until smooth.

Step 04

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan. Drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter mixture on top and swirl with a knife for a marble effect. Sprinkle the crushed pretzels on top.

Step 05

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 06

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before cutting into squares and serving.

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