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Ultimate Fudgy Buckeye Brownies with Creamy Peanut Butter Filling and Chocolate Ganache

A thick slice of three-layer buckeye brownies featuring a dense brownie base, peanut butter layer, and chocolate topping.
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You will love these decadent Buckeye Brownies, which combine a rich, fudgy chocolate brownie base with a smooth, creamy peanut butter layer, all topped with a glossy chocolate ganache. This recipe brings the classic peanut butter and chocolate candy flavor into an easy-to-make layered dessert bar.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for brownie layer)
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter
  • 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream (optional, for texture)
  • 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (for ganache)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (for ganache)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Brownie Base: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until combined.
  3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
  5. Fold in the 1 cup of chocolate chips. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
  6. Bake the brownie base for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with moist crumbs attached. Let the brownie cool completely in the pan.
  7. Prepare the Creamy Peanut Butter Layer: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and peanut butter together until smooth and creamy.
  8. Gradually beat in the sifted powdered sugar until fully incorporated. Mix in the vanilla extract and salt. If the mixture seems too stiff, add the milk or cream one tablespoon at a time until you reach a spreadable, creamy consistency.
  9. Spread the peanut butter mixture evenly over the cooled brownie base. Place the pan in the refrigerator while you prepare the ganache.
  10. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache Topping: Place the 1 1/2 cups of chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl.
  11. Heat the 1/2 cup of heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer around the edges. Do not let it boil.
  12. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips. Let it sit undisturbed for 5 minutes. Whisk gently until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
  13. Pour the chocolate ganache over the chilled peanut butter layer. Spread quickly and evenly.
  14. Chill the Buckeye Brownies for at least 2 hours, or until the ganache is set. Lift the brownies out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares before serving.

Notes

  • For a shortcut, you can use a box of your favorite fudgy brownie mix, following the package directions for baking time, then proceed with the peanut butter layer.
  • If you prefer a firmer peanut butter layer, reduce the milk/cream added in step 11 to zero.
  • To achieve a true ‘buckeye’ look, you can use a small cookie scoop to portion the peanut butter filling before spreading it, or use a toothpick to create swirls in the ganache layer.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://spoonsprout.com/buckeye-brownies-recipe-fudgy-peanut-butter-bars/