Thought to have been invented in Chicago
these rich
dense brownies gained popularity in the late 19th century because of their very chocolaty flavor and oozy texture.
As amateur bakers experimented with increasing the flour and leavening ingredients
a lighter
cake-like texture that nonetheless retains brownie characteristics emerged.
Sometimes called the "blonde brownie"
blondies have been around since the early 20th century as a vanilla-flavored substitute made using butter and brown sugar rather than chocolate.
With their crisp texture and nutty flavor that balances the richness of the chocolate
walnuts have been a popular addition to brownies since the middle of the 20th century.
This version
which takes its cue from America's affinity for peanut butter
combines or layers traditional brownie batter with creamy peanut butter to create a unique combination of sweetness and salt.