Buckeye Brownies

Buckeye Brownies

A decadent dessert inspired by the classic Buckeye candy. These brownies feature a rich, fudgy chocolate base topped with a creamy peanut butter layer and finished with a smooth chocolate ganache. Perfect for peanut butter lovers and special occasions.

Ingredients

For the Brownie Layer:

• 1 box (18–19 oz) fudge brownie mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
  or use your favorite homemade brownie recipe

For the Peanut Butter Layer:

• 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened

• 2 cups powdered sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Ganache:

• 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

Instructions

1. Bake the Brownies:

   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

   • Prepare brownie mix according to package directions.

   • Pour into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan and bake as directed. Let cool completely.

2. Make the Peanut Butter Layer:

   • In a large bowl, beat peanut butter and softened butter until creamy.

   • Mix in powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth.

   • Spread evenly over cooled brownies.

3. Make the Ganache:

   • In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream and butter until just simmering (do not boil).

   • Remove from heat, pour over chocolate chips, and let sit for 2 minutes.

   • Stir until smooth and glossy.

4. Assemble:

   • Pour ganache over peanut butter layer and spread evenly.

   • Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.

5. Serve:

   • Slice into squares and enjoy!

Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking pan

• Mixing bowls

• Hand or stand mixer

• Saucepan

• Spatula

Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 25–30 minutes

• Chill Time: 1 hour

• Total Time: About 1 hour 50 minutes

Serving Size

• Makes about 16 brownies

Buckeye Brownies

A decadent dessert inspired by the classic Buckeye candy. These brownies feature a rich, fudgy chocolate base topped with a creamy peanut butter layer and finished with a smooth chocolate ganache. Perfect for peanut butter lovers and special occasions.

Print Recipe

Prep Time:20 minutes mins

Cook Time:30 minutes mins

Total Time:1 hour hr 50 minutes mins

Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Hand or stand mixer
• Saucepan
• Spatula

Ingredients

• For the Brownie Layer:
• 1 box 18–19 oz fudge brownie mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
• or use your favorite homemade brownie recipe
• For the Peanut Butter Layer:
• 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup 1 stick unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• For the Chocolate Ganache:
• 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

Instructions

• Bake the Brownies:
• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Prepare brownie mix according to package directions.
• Pour into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan and bake as directed. Let cool completely.
• Make the Peanut Butter Layer:
• In a large bowl, beat peanut butter and softened butter until creamy.
• Mix in powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth.
• Spread evenly over cooled brownies.
• Make the Ganache:
• In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream and butter until just simmering (do not boil).
• Remove from heat, pour over chocolate chips, and let sit for 2 minutes.
• Stir until smooth and glossy.
• Assemble:
• Pour ganache over peanut butter layer and spread evenly.
• Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.
• Serve:
• Slice into squares and enjoy!

Servings: 16 brownies

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use homemade brownies instead of a box mix?
   Yes, just make sure the pan size is the same (9×13) so the layers fit properly.

2. Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
   You can, but the texture will be less smooth—some people like the added crunch.

3. Can I make these without the ganache?
   Yes, but the ganache helps balance the sweetness of the peanut butter layer.

4. Can I replace semisweet chocolate chips with milk or dark chocolate?
   Absolutely choose your favorite chocolate type, just keep the measurements the same.

5. Do I have to chill the brownies before cutting?
   Yes, chilling helps the ganache set and makes slicing cleaner.

6. Can I make them ahead of time?
   Yes, they can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the fridge.

7. Can I make them gluten-free?
   Yes, just use a gluten-free brownie mix or your favorite gluten-free brownie recipe.

8. Why is my ganache grainy?
   The chocolate may have seized from overheating. Stir gently and avoid boiling the cream.

9. Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?
   Yes, just use two pans instead of one for even baking.

10. Can I add toppings like chopped peanuts or sea salt?
    Definitely sprinkle on top of the ganache before it sets for extra flavor and texture.

How To Store Buckeye Brownies

• Room Temperature:
  Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days if your kitchen is cool (below 70°F).

• Refrigerator:
  Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Let come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

• Freezer:
  Wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

• Extra Tip:
  For clean cuts, run a sharp knife under hot water, wipe dry, and slice while the brownies are chilled.