So maybe you aren't thinking about hot chocolate yet, (seriously with the humidity we are still in short-sleeve season), but hot beverages have a bit of competition. Peanut butter lovers, brace yourself for Peanut Hottie: a peanut butter hot drink. Similar to hot chocolate, this powdered mix combines de-fatted peanut flour and no artificial colors in an 83-calorie serving. A mug of this has a strong peanut flavor and subtle peanut aroma.
Credit: Alexa Lampasona
Credit: Alexa Lampasona
The big question- why has no one thought of this before? That was the first thought Lisa Gawthorne, co-creator of Peanut Hottie, had when she thought of the idea and went on to create it with business partner Karl Morris.
Gawthorne, who is also the joint managing director Wales-based Bravura Foods, came up with the product after a late-night gym session. "I wanted a protein-rich snack, so I took a spoon of peanut butter out of the jar and washed it down with a cup of tea. It created an amazing taste sensation and I knew right then, we had to launch this product."
18 months of research ensued, involving more than 52 taste tests, multiple package designs and collaboration with a test group of 100 females ages 25-45. Peanut Hottie was launched in the UK in October 2o13. Gawthorne and Morris were amazed to see the emotional connection to the brand. The social media was streaming with fan accounts of how the beverage was their comfort for low times, like going through a break-up or studying for exams.
Now, a year later, Peanut Hottie has launched today in more than 2,499 Wal-Mart stores nationwide.
"My business partner and I are the biggest American-crazy Brits you'll find," Gawthorne said of her and Morris. "So we wanted to take it to the original home of the peanuts."
Bravura Foods, LLC., has an Atlanta-based distribution center. You can find Peanut Hottie in the hot beverage aisle of Wal-Mart, beside the hot chocolate. It is available in peanut butter and chocolate peanut butter flavors. We think we can find other uses for this besides just a hot beverage- waffles, muffins, cookies? It will be a good fall baking season!
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