There is something utterly irresistible about the rich, fudgy texture of classic brownies combined with the luscious creaminess of peanut butter and silky chocolate ganache on top. This Buckeye Brownies Recipe is pure magic for anyone who adores the iconic buckeye candy flavors baked into a decadent dessert bar. Every bite offers a perfect harmony of chocolate and peanut butter, sure to win over your taste buds and become an instant favorite for all your gatherings or cozy nights at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Buckeye Brownies Recipe uses a handful of pantry staples that come together beautifully to create a moist, fudgy base, a creamy peanut butter filling, and a smooth chocolate finish. Each ingredient plays an important role, whether it’s building flavor, texture, or that classic indulgent look.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and helps create that fudgy brownie texture.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter and balances the cocoa’s bitterness.
- Large eggs: Bind everything together and contribute to a tender crumb.
- Vanilla extract: Deepens the overall flavor with its warm, sweet aroma.
- All-purpose flour: Provides structure to the brownies without weighing them down.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: The source of rich chocolate flavor and color.
- Baking powder: Gives a slight lift for a perfectly soft interior.
- Salt: Enhances the sweetness and rounds out flavors.
- Semisweet chocolate chips: Optional, for those extra bursts of melted chocolate joy.
- Creamy peanut butter: The star of the peanut butter layer, silky and smooth.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and firms up the peanut butter layer.
- Softened unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps achieve a creamy texture in the peanut butter layer.
- Heavy cream: Used to create the glossy, luscious chocolate ganache topping.
How to Make Buckeye Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Bake the Brownies
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepping an 8×8-inch pan with grease or parchment. Combine melted butter and sugar until smooth, then mix in eggs and vanilla for that rich base flavor. Sift together flour, cocoa, baking powder, and salt; gently fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir in chocolate chips if you want an extra chocolate kick. Pour the batter in, spread it out evenly, and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when a toothpick inserted comes out with just a few moist crumbs, promising that perfect fudgy center. Let them cool completely before moving on.
Step 2: Prepare the Peanut Butter Layer
While the brownies cool, whip up the peanut butter filling. In a bowl, combine creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. Once your brownies have chilled, spread this luscious peanut butter layer evenly over the top. Place the pan in the refrigerator so this layer firms up nicely, setting the stage for the next step.
Step 3: Make the Chocolate Ganache
To top it all off, create a smooth ganache by heating heavy cream until just simmering. Pour the hot cream over semisweet chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl, and let it bloom for a few minutes before stirring until silky and shiny. Allow the ganache to cool a bit so it thickens slightly, making it easier to spread on the peanut butter layer.
Step 4: Finish the Brownies
Pour the glossy ganache evenly over the peanut butter layer, smoothing it with a spatula for a beautiful finish. Return the brownies to the fridge and chill for at least an hour until the ganache sets firm, giving you that irresistible, glossy top typical of Buckeye Brownies Recipe that everyone loves.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
After setting, take the brownies out and cut into squares. These treats are fabulous served chilled or at room temperature, perfect for any occasion where you want to impress with a homemade dessert packed with luscious chocolate and peanut butter flavor.
How to Serve Buckeye Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of chopped peanuts or a dusting of cocoa powder for a little extra texture and flair. A swirl of peanut butter on top or a drizzle of caramel sauce can elevate these brownies into an unforgettable dessert experience.
Side Dishes
Pair these brownies with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a dessert that feels indulgent yet perfectly balanced. Fresh berries can add a lovely tart contrast that brightens the richness of the brownies.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut Buckeye Brownies into bite-sized squares for party platters or stack them with parchment paper between layers to create stunning dessert towers. Wrapping individual brownies in clear cellophane tied with a ribbon also makes for a charming homemade gift.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Buckeye Brownies Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If your kitchen is warm, the refrigerator is a good alternative to keep the ganache nice and firm.
Freezing
You can freeze these brownies for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to maintain their delectable texture.
Reheating
Since these are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, reheating is generally unnecessary. However, if you prefer warm brownies, gently microwave a square for 10-15 seconds, being careful not to melt the ganache layer too much.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
While creamy peanut butter is recommended for a smooth, spreadable layer, you can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer a bit of texture. Just be aware that the spreading might be a little trickier, and the final layer will have added crunch.
Is it okay to skip the chocolate chips in the brownie batter?
Absolutely! The chocolate chips add extra richness and texture, but the brownies will still be deliciously fudgy and chocolaty without them.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make the Buckeye Brownies Recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend of your choice. This swap should keep the texture moist and fudgy.
How do I know when the brownies are perfectly baked?
The key is to bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. Overbaking leads to dry brownies, so keep a close eye near the end of the baking time.
Can I double this recipe for a larger batch?
Definitely! Double all ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan instead, adjusting baking time as needed. Keep an eye to avoid under- or over-baking the larger batch.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to wow your friends, family, or just treat yourself to something utterly scrumptious, you cannot go wrong with this Buckeye Brownies Recipe. It brings together the best of creamy peanut butter and chocolatey goodness into each fudgy bite. Trust me, once you make these, they will quickly become your go-to dessert. So grab your ingredients and start baking — delicious memories are just a pan away!
Print
Buckeye Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These decadent Buckeye Brownies combine rich, fudgy chocolate brownies with a creamy peanut butter layer and a glossy chocolate ganache topping. Perfect for peanut butter and chocolate lovers, this recipe offers a moist, flavorful treat that’s easy to make and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips (optional)
Peanut Butter Layer
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Chocolate Ganache
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Make the brownies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until fully combined. Stir in the chocolate chips if using. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Prepare the peanut butter layer: In a medium bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and fully incorporated using a hand mixer or spatula. Once the brownies have cooled, spread this peanut butter mixture evenly over the top, smoothing it out with a spatula. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes so the layer firms up.
- Make the chocolate ganache: Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer without boiling. Remove from heat and pour over the semisweet chocolate chips placed in a heatproof bowl. Let sit for 2-3 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy. Allow the ganache to cool slightly before pouring over the peanut butter layer on the brownies.
- Finish the brownies: Pour the slightly cooled ganache evenly over the peanut butter layer, covering the entire surface. Return the brownies to the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour, or until the ganache has set completely.
- Serve: Remove the brownies from the refrigerator once set. Cut into 16 squares and serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy this rich and satisfying peanut butter and chocolate treat!
Notes
- For extra fudginess, do not overbake the brownies; a slightly undercooked center yields the best texture.
- Use creamy peanut butter for a smooth spreadable layer; natural peanut butter may make the layer less firm.
- The chocolate ganache can be made with dark, milk, or semi-sweet chocolate according to preference.
- Store brownies covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Bring brownies to room temperature before serving for best flavor.
