If you’re a diehard chocolate-and-peanut-butter fan, these Buckeye Brownies are destined to be your new guilty pleasure. Imagine the richest, fudgiest brownie you’ve ever tasted, crowned with a dreamy layer of silky peanut butter filling and topped with an irresistible blanket of smooth melted chocolate. This dessert delivers all the magic of classic Buckeye candies, amplified by decadent brownie beneath. Whether you’re treating yourself, baking for a party, or just want to wow someone who appreciates peanut butter and chocolate as much as you do, these Buckeye Brownies never disappoint.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Buckeye Brownies is delightfully simple, but each ingredient plays a starring role in creating that perfect balance of flavor and texture. Gather these essentials, and get ready for a sweet, show-stopping treat!

Fudge Brownie Mix: This shortcut guarantees perfectly fudgy, chocolatey brownies as your base—no fuss required!
Eggs, Oil, and Water: Just follow your box instructions; these ensure the brownie has the right rise and moisture.
Creamy Peanut Butter: Gives that signature salty-sweet middle layer, smooth and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
Unsalted Butter: Softened butter helps the peanut butter layer fluff up beautifully and adds incredible richness.
Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens your peanut butter mix, making it perfectly sliceable.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla deepens all the flavors and adds warmth to the peanut butter layer.
Semisweet Chocolate Chips: Melted into a glorious chocolate cap that contrasts perfectly with the sweet peanut butter.
Heavy Cream: Makes the chocolate layer pourable, shiny, and wonderfully smooth to bite into.

How to Make Buckeye Brownies

Step 1: Bake the Brownie Base

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and prepping an 8×8-inch baking pan with nonstick spray or lining it with parchment paper. Prepare the brownie batter just as the box instructs—adding the eggs, oil, and water for irresistibly fudgy results. Pour the decadent batter into your prepared pan and bake according to the package directions. Allow the brownie base to cool completely; this ensures your next layers stay distinct and beautiful.

Step 2: Whip Up the Peanut Butter Layer

While the brownies cool, grab a large bowl and combine creamy peanut butter, softened unsalted butter, powdered sugar, and a splash of vanilla extract. Beat everything together until the mixture is creamy, thick, and luxurious. This golden peanut butter filling should be fluffy yet spreadable—think cookie dough that melts on your tongue!

Step 3: Spread Peanut Butter Perfection

Once your brownie base is cool, gently spread the peanut butter mixture evenly over the top. Use a spatula to coax every corner into a perfectly even blanket, being careful not to tear the brownie beneath. A little patience now means neat, gorgeous layers later.

Step 4: Melt and Pour the Chocolate Topping

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine your semisweet chocolate chips and heavy cream. Microwave in short, 30-second bursts, stirring between each until your chocolate is silky smooth. Pour this glossy chocolate ganache over the peanut butter layer and spread it evenly. The final product should shimmer and tempt you to sneak a finger swipe—resist, just for now!

Step 5: Chill and Slice

Refrigerate the assembled brownies for at least one hour, or until the chocolate top is set. For the cleanest, most professional-looking slices, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts. This little trick gives you those picture-perfect Buckeye Brownies that will wow any crowd!

How to Serve Buckeye Brownies

Garnishes

Dress up your Buckeye Brownies for any occasion by sprinkling a pinch of flaky sea salt, a dusting of cocoa powder, or even some chopped roasted peanuts on top just before the chocolate sets. These finishing touches make each bite a little more special and add an extra pop of flavor.

Side Dishes

Pairing Buckeye Brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes the indulgence to the next level! For something lighter, try fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream—their freshness wonderfully balances the rich, sweet layers.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut your Buckeye Brownies into small squares for a party platter, or serve larger portions for an impressive plated dessert. For an extra wow factor, drizzle with warm caramel or stack them with layers of ice cream for an unforgettable sundae. The possibilities are endless and only limited by your imagination!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Buckeye Brownies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or pop them in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors meld and intensify over time, making each bite even more irresistible!

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the brownies tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay delicious for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw in the fridge overnight for gooey, just-made results.

Reheating

If you love a slightly gooey, warm treat, microwave individual slices for 10 to 15 seconds. This softens the chocolate and peanut butter layers slightly for an almost molten experience without ruining those signature layers.

FAQs

Can I use a homemade brownie recipe instead of box mix?

Absolutely! While a box mix is quick and foolproof, feel free to substitute your favorite homemade brownie recipe as the base—just make sure it fits an 8×8-inch pan for best results.

Can I make Buckeye Brownies with crunchy peanut butter?

You sure can! Crunchy peanut butter adds great texture and a fun change if you love extra peanut pieces in every bite. The brownies will still slice smoothly and taste amazing.

How do I get super clean cuts without messy edges?

The secret is chilling your Buckeye Brownies until the chocolate top is firm, then using a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between each slice. Patience pays off here for truly gorgeous layers.

Can these brownies be made gluten-free?

Definitely—just choose a gluten-free brownie mix and double-check that all mix-ins and toppings are gluten-free. The rest of the recipe works just as beautifully!

What’s the best way to transport Buckeye Brownies for a party?

After the brownies have chilled and set, cut them into squares and arrange them in a single layer in a sturdy, lidded container, separating layers with parchment if needed. Keep them cool until serving to preserve the beautiful chocolate top.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to try these Buckeye Brownies—they’re pure chocolate and peanut butter bliss, simple enough for any day but impressive enough for any celebration. Don’t be surprised if they disappear in minutes! Happy baking, and let me know if you become as obsessed as I am.

Buckeye Brownies Recipe

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4.6 from 21 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (including chill time)
Yield: 16 brownies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the irresistible combination of rich fudgy brownies topped with a creamy peanut butter layer and a decadent chocolate coating in these delectable Buckeye Brownies.

Ingredients

Scale

Brownie Layer:

1 box (18.3 ounces) fudge brownie mix (plus eggs, oil, and water as called for on box)

Peanut Butter Layer:

1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Chocolate Coating:

1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
2 tablespoons heavy cream

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Instructions

Preheat oven and prepare pan: Preheat oven to 350°F and prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan with nonstick spray or parchment paper.
Make brownie layer: Prepare brownie batter as directed on the package. Pour into the prepared pan and bake according to box instructions. Let cool.
Prepare peanut butter layer: Mix peanut butter, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Spread over cooled brownies.
Make chocolate coating: Melt chocolate chips and heavy cream in the microwave. Pour over peanut butter layer.
Chill and serve: Chill brownies in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. Cut into squares and enjoy!