Buckeye Brownies
When it comes to dessert, chocolate and peanut butter make the ultimate dynamic duo, and there’s no better way to bring them together than in Buckeye Brownies. Yes, you heard it right! We’re taking the classic Buckeye Brownies recipe to the next level, adding a rich, fudgy layer of chocolate that will have your taste buds dancing in pure joy.
If you’re a fan of chocolate brownies and you love peanut butter, this dessert is going to be your new best friend. Whether you’re sharing them at a family gathering or enjoying a late-night treat, Buckeye Brownies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser! And trust me, once you’ve tasted them, you’ll wonder why you haven’t been making them all along.
What Are Buckeye Brownies?
At the heart of Buckeye Brownies is that perfect marriage of peanut butter and chocolate. Imagine a fudgy, chewy brownie base topped with a creamy peanut butter layer and then smothered in smooth, rich chocolate ganache. It’s inspired by the traditional Buckeye candy from Ohio but with the extra decadence of a brownie base. The result? A dessert that’s equal parts nostalgic and indulgent.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the brownies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the peanut butter layer:
- 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the chocolate ganache:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Make the Brownie Base
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper for effortless brownie removal. In a large mixing bowl, blend together the melted butter, sugar, and brown sugar until you achieve a smooth consistency. Incorporate the eggs one by one, making sure to beat well after each addition for a light and airy batter. Gently fold in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt until the mixture is just combined.
Transfer the batter into the prepared dish, smooth the surface with a spatula, and bake for 25-30 minutes. The brownies are done when you insert a toothpick into the center and it comes out clean, indicating that they’re perfectly baked. Set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Peanut Butter Layer
While the brownies are cooling, beat together the peanut butter, powdered sugar, and softened butter in a mixing bowl until smooth and creamy. Evenly distribute the peanut butter mixture across the surface of the cooled brownie base for a smooth layer.
3. Make the Chocolate Ganache
In a microwave-safe bowl, mix the chocolate chips with heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring in between, until the chocolate reaches a fully melted and smooth consistency. Then, pour the ganache over the peanut butter layer and evenly spread it using a spatula.
4. Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the Buckeye Brownies for at least 1 hour to allow the layers to set. After chilling, slice the Buckeye Brownies into squares and enjoy!
Why These Buckeye Brownies Are The Best
There’s no shortage of brownie recipes out there, but Buckeye Brownies are in a class of their own. The contrast between the fudgy brownie base, the creamy peanut butter filling, and the silky chocolate ganache is unbeatable. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make!
You can whip up a batch in no time, and they store well in the fridge for days. But trust me, they won’t last that long – they’re just too irresistible. Each bite of Buckeye Brownies delivers the perfect balance of sweetness and richness, making it a dessert worth savoring.
FAQs About Buckeye Brownies
Q: Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
A: Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a little texture to the creamy peanut butter layer, giving your Buckeye Brownies an extra bite.
Q: How should I store these brownies?
A: These Buckeye Brownies should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week when stored properly, though they rarely last that long because they’re just too tempting!
Q: Can I freeze Buckeye Brownies?
A: Yes, you can freeze them! Just make sure they’re wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in an airtight container. Allow them to chill in the fridge before serving to enhance their texture and flavor
Tips for Making the Perfect Buckeye Brownies
- Don’t Overbake the Brownies
Make sure to check the brownies a few minutes before the recommended bake time. Overbaking can lead to a dry brownie base, which doesn’t pair well with the creamy peanut butter layer. - Use High-Quality Chocolate
Since chocolate is a star ingredient, using high-quality chocolate chips for the ganache makes a noticeable difference in the final product. - Chill Before Cutting
Be sure to refrigerate the brownies long enough before cutting them into squares. This will help the layers firm up and give you those clean, beautiful slices.
