Buckeye Brownie Cookies Recipe

These Buckeye Brownie Cookies are the perfect combination of rich, fudgy brownies and classic peanut butter buckeyes. Featuring a soft brownie cookie base topped with a creamy peanut butter layer and finished with a smooth chocolate ganache, these cookies are truly irresistible. They’re a delicious treat for any occasion, especially for peanut butter and chocolate lovers. Each bite delivers the decadent flavors of a brownie, buckeye candy, and cookie all in one!

Table of Contents

1. Ingredients
2. Instructions
3. Cook Notes & Tips
4. Recipe Variations
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
6. Conclusion

Ingredients

For the Brownie Cookies

• 1 box (18 oz) brownie mix
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Peanut Butter Layer

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Ganache

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/3 cup heavy cream

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Brownie Cookies

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the brownie mix, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined and a thick dough forms.
• Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
• Slightly flatten each dough ball with the palm of your hand.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Peanut Butter Layer

• In a medium mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, powdered sugar, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.
• Roll teaspoon-sized portions of the peanut butter mixture into small balls. Place one peanut butter ball on top of each cooled cookie and press down slightly to flatten.

Step 3: Make the Chocolate Ganache

• In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and heavy cream. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth.
• Spoon a small amount of ganache over each peanut butter-topped cookie, allowing it to drip down the sides slightly.
• Let the ganache set at room temperature or place the cookies in the refrigerator for a few minutes to speed up the process.

Cook Notes & Tips

• Consistency: The brownie cookie dough will be thick, similar to a traditional cookie dough. If it’s too sticky, you can chill it for 10-15 minutes before shaping.
• Peanut Butter Mixture: For easy handling, chill the peanut butter mixture in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes before rolling it into balls.
• Chocolate Ganache: Make sure to stir the chocolate and cream until completely smooth to achieve a silky ganache.

Recipe Variations

• Dark Chocolate Ganache: Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a deeper chocolate flavor.
• Crunchy Peanut Butter: Use crunchy peanut butter in the filling for added texture.
• Add a Sprinkle of Salt: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of each cookie before the ganache sets for a sweet and salty contrast.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make these cookies ahead of time? A: Yes, you can make these cookies up to 2 days in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for freshness.

Q: Can I freeze these cookies? A: Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled cookies without the ganache. Just thaw them at room temperature and add the ganache before serving.

Q: How do I store leftover cookies? A: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

These Buckeye Brownie Cookies are the ultimate treat for anyone who loves the combination of chocolate and peanut butter. With a rich, fudgy brownie base, a creamy peanut butter layer, and a smooth chocolate ganache topping, each bite is indulgent and delicious. Perfect for special occasions or as a decadent everyday treat, these cookies are sure to impress. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the irresistible flavors of brownie, peanut butter, and chocolate all in one bite!