Using Raw Peanuts

• Using raw peanuts in your brownies enables you to control added ingredients. They are difficult to digest, however, so toast them before adding them to the batter. Remove raw peanuts from their shells before toasting them for a richer flavor. To toast peanuts on the stovetop, place a single layer in a large skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, for six to eight minutes or until the peanuts begin to brown. Remove from the heat immediately, remove peanuts from skillet and allow to cool before adding them to the batter. To toast peanuts in the oven, spread a single layer of nuts on a baking sheet and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for approximately 20 minutes, or until the nuts are golden brown. Remove the baking sheet from the oven halfway through the cooking time and stir the peanuts with a spatula. Remove the toasted peanuts from the baking sheet and allow them to cool before adding them to the batter.

Using Roasted Peanuts

• Buy roasted peanuts to add to brownies if you want to skip the toasting process. Most roasted varieties have added oil, but not in an amount that will affect your brownies. Roasted peanuts with added salt will enhance the chocolate flavor in brownies while toning down the sweetness, resulting in a sweet and salty dessert. Honey-roasted peanuts, or roasted peanuts with added spices, can add an unexpected flavor to the brownies.

Peanuts Plus Caramel

• Caramel and peanuts are a classic combination, and they'll add an interesting flavor and texture to brownies. Add roasted or toasted peanuts to brownie batter and bake according to recipe directions. Immediately after removing the brownies to cool, make a caramel glaze. Melt together unwrapped caramel candies and a small amount of milk over low heat, stirring constantly, until the caramels are melted. Drizzle the caramel glaze over the warm brownies and let them cool completely.

Peanut-Crusted Brownies

• Add a crunchy layer of salty peanut flavor to brownies after baking. Pour salted peanuts into a resealable plastic bag, seal the bag and run over the nuts with a rolling pin until they are broken into small pieces. Microwave milk chocolate, dark chocolate or white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl until melted, stirring to ensure the mixture is smooth. Stir in the crushed peanuts. Pour the mixture over cooled, uncut brownies and allow the mixture to harden for approximately three hours on the counter or one hour in the refrigerator.