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Easy Buckeye Brownies Recipe

4.6 from 91 reviews

These Easy Buckeye Brownies combine rich, fudgy chocolate brownies with a creamy peanut butter filling and a smooth dark chocolate ganache topping, creating a decadent dessert inspired by the classic buckeye candy. Perfect for peanut butter and chocolate lovers alike, this recipe offers a luscious treat that’s great for gatherings, potlucks, or just an indulgent homemade snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Brownie Layer

  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder

Peanut Butter Filling

  • ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 3 cups powdered sugar

Ganache

  • 1 ½ cups dark chocolate chips
  • 6 tablespoons heavy whipping cream

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 13×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow for easy removal of brownies.
  2. Melt Butter and Chocolate: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 cup unsalted butter. Remove from heat and immediately add ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips and 2 cups granulated sugar, stirring until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
  3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in 4 large eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Stir in 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract for flavor.
  4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Sift together ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 cup all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon baking powder. Add this to the wet mixture, stirring gently with big strokes just until the dry ingredients disappear and the batter is uniform.
  5. Bake Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 23-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with moist crumbs but not wet batter.
  6. Prepare Peanut Butter Filling: While brownies are baking, in a mixing bowl combine ¾ cup melted unsalted butter, 1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 3 cups powdered sugar. Beat together until the filling is smooth and well blended.
  7. Apply Peanut Butter Layer: When brownies have finished baking but are still warm, gently drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter filling over the brownie surface. Using your fingertips, spread and press the filling evenly over the entire top.
  8. Make Ganache: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 ½ cups dark chocolate chips and 6 tablespoons heavy whipping cream. Heat in the microwave for about 1 minute, then stir briskly until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
  9. Spread Ganache: Pour the ganache evenly over the peanut butter layer, using a spatula to spread it smoothly across the entire surface.
  10. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the assembled brownies for at least 2 hours to allow the layers to set completely. Once chilled, cut into bars and serve. Enjoy the rich combination of chocolate and creamy peanut butter!

Notes

  • Use parchment paper with an overhang for easier removal of brownies from the pan.
  • Do not overbake the brownies; they should remain fudgy in the center.
  • If your peanut butter filling is too thick, you can add a tablespoon of milk to loosen it slightly.
  • For a nut-free version, substitute the peanut butter filling with a sunbutter or other seed butter.
  • Store leftover brownies refrigerated and bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
  • Ganache can be gently reheated if it hardens too much before serving.

Keywords: buckeye brownies, peanut butter brownies, chocolate peanut butter dessert, easy brownie recipe, homemade buckeye candy brownies