Name: Buckeye Brownies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 54 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box brownie mix; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 eggs + 2 egg yolks; 3 tablespoons milk; 2 1/4 cups powdered sugar; 1 1/3 cups smooth peanut butter; 1 cup salted butter, room temperature; 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 3 tablespoons very warm heavy cream; 2 teaspoons corn syrup

Print Recipe· 4.2 from 1 review

If you adore the perfect combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter, then this Buckeye Brownies Recipe is about to become your new favorite treat. Imagine fudgy brownies topped with a luscious peanut butter layer and finished with a silky chocolate ganache that melts in your mouth. It’s like biting into a classic Buckeye candy, only better because it’s in brownie form! This dessert not only satisfies every chocolate lover’s craving but also delights anyone who appreciates the irresistible harmony of these two classic flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A square baked brownie with a cracked, textured top layer of rich brown color sits inside a metal baking pan lined with white parchment paper. The brownie fills the pan evenly, showing slightly darker edges and a soft middle. The pan rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients might be simple, but each one plays an essential role in creating the unforgettable taste and texture of this Buckeye Brownies Recipe. From the smooth peanut butter that adds creaminess to the semi-sweet chocolate chips that bring richness, every element contributes to a perfect balance.

Brownie mix: A quick and easy base that guarantees fudgy, moist brownies.
Vegetable oil (1/2 cup): Keeps the brownies tender without being greasy.
Eggs (2 eggs + 2 yolks): Helps structure and adds richness.
Milk (3 tablespoons): Lightens the batter slightly for a soft crumb.
Powdered sugar (2 1/4 cups): Provides sweetness and smooth texture for the peanut butter layer.
Smooth peanut butter (1 1/3 cups): The star of the show for that creamy, nutty flavor.
Salted butter (1 cup, room temp): Adds richness to the peanut butter layer and balances sweetness.
Vanilla extract (1 1/2 teaspoons): Enhances all the flavors with warm aromatic notes.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): A pinch to brighten flavors and cut sweetness.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup): Creates a decadent, glossy topping when melted with cream.
Very warm heavy cream (3 tablespoons): Melts the chocolate chips smoothly for the perfect ganache.
Corn syrup (2 teaspoons): Gives the topping a lovely sheen and silky finish.

How to Make Buckeye Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Brownies

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a 9×9″ baking dish with parchment paper. Lightly spray the parchment to make lifting the brownies out easier later. In a large bowl, whisk together the brownie mix, vegetable oil, eggs, and milk until the mixture is silky and no dry streaks remain. Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake on the center rack for 22 to 25 minutes. Once baked, move the pan to a wire rack and let the brownies cool completely—this ensures your peanut butter layer won’t melt when applied.

Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Layer

Using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, combine the powdered sugar, smooth peanut butter, softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat on medium speed until your mixture is silky smooth and well combined. This layer creates the signature creamy peanut butter middle that gives the recipe its delightful Buckeye-inspired flavor.

Step 3: Create the Chocolate Topping

Place the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a bowl, then pour the very warm heavy cream over them. Let the mixture sit for a full minute to melt the chocolate. Whisk until completely smooth—if some chips remain unmelted, nuke the bowl for a few seconds and stir again. Finally, stir in the corn syrup, which adds a beautiful glossy finish to your topping.

Step 4: Assemble Your Buckeye Brownies

Once your brownies are fully cooled, spread the peanut butter layer evenly over the top. Next, pour the slightly cooled chocolate topping over the peanut butter and smooth it carefully with a spatula. Now comes the hardest part: waiting for the topping to set before you slice into these beauties. When the ganache has firmed up, you’re ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Buckeye Brownies Recipe

A square metal baking pan lined with white parchment paper holds a thick, smooth spread of light brown batter evenly covering the bottom of the pan. The batter has a slightly creamy texture with gentle swirls and peaks visible on the surface. The pan sits on a white marbled surface, giving a clean and bright background to the scene. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To add a little flair and texture, sprinkle chopped roasted peanuts or a light dusting of powdered sugar over the ganache just before serving. It brings a pleasant crunch and a touch of extra sweetness, complementing the smooth layers beautifully.

Side Dishes

These brownies are decadent on their own but pairing them with a tall glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes them even more irresistible. A cup of strong coffee or hot cocoa also complements the rich flavors nicely for those cozy moments.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the brownies into small bite-sized pieces and serving them on a platter at your next party. You can also stack them on a decorative plate layered with parchment paper for a rustic look. For a festive touch, drizzle some melted white chocolate on top or add colorful sprinkles before the ganache sets.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Buckeye Brownies Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. They should keep beautifully for up to 4 days while maintaining their fudgy texture and creamy peanut butter layer.

Freezing

If you want to save these delights for later, wrap the brownies tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They freeze well up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before slicing and serving to preserve their texture.

Reheating

Since these brownies are best enjoyed at room temperature or chilled, reheating isn’t usually necessary. However, you can warm individual pieces slightly in the microwave for about 10 seconds if you prefer a soft, melty bite—just be careful not to overheat or the ganache may lose its smooth finish.

FAQs

Can I use homemade brownie batter instead of a mix?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute your favorite homemade brownie recipe for the brownie mix in this Buckeye Brownies Recipe. Just make sure the brownies are fully cooled before layering.

Is it necessary to use salted butter in the peanut butter layer?

Salted butter helps balance the sweetness and enhances depth of flavor, but if you only have unsalted butter, you can add an extra pinch of salt to compensate.

Can I replace corn syrup in the chocolate topping?

Yes, you can substitute corn syrup with honey or light molasses, but corn syrup creates the smoothest, shiniest finish. If you skip it, your ganache might be less glossy but will still taste fantastic.

How thick should I spread the peanut butter layer?

The peanut butter layer should be evenly spread about 1/4 to 1/3 inch thick to give you that perfect creamy texture without overwhelming the brownie base.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use a gluten-free brownie mix and ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free certified. These Buckeye Brownies Recipe will still turn out beautifully.

Final Thoughts

There is something incredibly comforting and indulgent about the blend of chocolate and peanut butter, and this Buckeye Brownies Recipe captures that magic perfectly. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, these brownies deliver on texture, flavor, and pure joy in every bite. Give this recipe a try and watch it quickly become a beloved staple in your dessert rotation!