Buckeye Brownies

Step-by-Step Instructions

Get ready to indulge in some of the most delicious brownies you’ll ever make. Follow these directions carefully:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your brownie pan to ensure easy release later.
In a medium saucepan, melt 1 cup of unsalted butter over low heat. Stir in the cocoa powder until completely combined.
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the granulated sugar, table salt, eggs, and 3 tablespoons of pure vanilla extract until the mix is smooth.
Gently fold in the all-purpose flour until just combined. Do not overmix! Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
Bake the brownies for 25-30 minutes. Test them by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean. Once done, allow cooling completely in the pan.
For the peanut butter layer, mix together the creamy peanut butter, 3/4 cup unsalted butter, 2 teaspoons pure vanilla, and powdered sugar in a bowl until your mixture is smooth and creamy.
Spread this peanut butter mixture over the cooled brownies.
In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream on low until it’s warm. Add in the dark chocolate chips and stir continuously until melted and smooth. Pour this luscious ganache over the peanut butter layer.
Place the brownies in the refrigerator for about an hour to set. Once set, cut them into squares and serve.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serving Buckeye brownies can be a delightful experience! They are perfect on their own, but you can elevate the treat by pairing them with scoops of vanilla ice cream or drizzle extra chocolate syrup over the top. For a fun presentation, serve each square on a decorative dish with a sprinkle of crushed nuts or a dusting of powdered sugar. Consider pairing them with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk for a delightful afternoon treat.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

To maintain the flavor and freshness of your Buckeye brownies, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you have leftovers beyond that, they can be placed in the refrigerator for about a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them; wrap each square in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months.

Pro Chef Tips

To achieve perfect brownies, ensure you do not overmix the batter, or they may come out too dense.
For a fun twist, try adding chopped nuts or crushed pretzels into the peanut butter layer for added texture.
Let the brownies cool completely before adding the peanut butter layer to achieve the best texture and prevent melting.

Creative Twists

Feeling adventurous? Here are some variations to consider:

Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
Swap half the granulated sugar for brown sugar to create a moister, denser brownie.
Experiment with different types of chocolate—milk chocolate or white chocolate chips can complement the flavors beautifully.

Common Questions

How long do these brownies take to prepare?
Making Buckeye brownies takes about 15 minutes of prep time, and they bake in about 30 minutes, plus cooling time.

Can I use a different nut butter?
Absolutely! Almond butter or cashew butter could be delightful substitutes if you’re looking for a nut-free or alternative flavor.

What is the best way to thaw frozen brownies?
To thaw frozen brownies, place them in the refrigerator overnight or leave them at room temperature for a couple of hours. Enjoy!