If you are a fan of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter, this Buckeye Brownie Cookies Recipe is an absolute must-try. These cookies combine the fudgy goodness of brownie mix with the iconic peanut butter center and a luscious chocolate drizzle, creating a delightful treat that feels both indulgent and comforting. Soft, chewy, and perfectly balanced, these cookies are perfect for any occasion and are sure to become one of your favorite sweet treats to bake and share.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Buckeye Brownie Cookies Recipe calls for simple and straightforward ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Each element plays a special role, from the fudgy brownie mix giving depth and chewiness to the peanut butter adding richness, while the chocolate chips create that irresistible glossy finish.
- Brownie mix (18–19 oz, fudge-style): The base of the cookies, providing a moist and fudgy texture without added syrup to keep the flavor pure.
- All-purpose flour (¼ cup): Helps give structure to the dough so the cookies hold their shape beautifully.
- Vegetable oil (¼ cup): Adds moisture and keeps the cookies tender.
- Water (2 tablespoons): Balances the dough consistency for easy scooping.
- Large egg (1): Acts as a binder to pull all ingredients together.
- Creamy peanut butter (¾ cup): Creates the smooth, melt-in-your-mouth center that defines these cookies.
- Powdered sugar (¾ cup): Sweetens and thickens the peanut butter filling.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 ½ cups): Melted to coat the peanut butter center and add decadent flavor.
- Butter (1 tablespoon): Mixed with chocolate chips for a rich, glossy finish.
How to Make Buckeye Brownie Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. In a large bowl, mix together the fudgy brownie mix, flour, vegetable oil, water, and egg until you get a thick, sturdy dough. It should be firm enough to roll into balls but still moist and pliable. This dough forms the delicious base of your cookies.
Step 2: Shape and Bake the Cookies
Scoop about a tablespoon of dough and roll it gently into balls. Arrange them on the lined baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each for even baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the tops look set but still soft. This step is key to achieving that perfect chewy texture with a hint of fudginess.
Step 3: Prepare the Peanut Butter Centers
While the cookies bake, combine the creamy peanut butter and powdered sugar in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and form this mixture into roughly ¾-inch balls. These will become the signature peanut butter centers of the cookies. You can chill these balls if you want them to hold their shape even better when added to the cookies.
Step 4: Add the Peanut Butter and Chocolate Topping
Remove the cookies from the oven and immediately press one peanut butter ball gently into the center of each cookie while they’re still warm. Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Meanwhile, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips and butter together in the microwave using 20-second intervals, stirring between each session until the mixture is silky smooth. Drizzle or spoon this melted chocolate over the peanut butter centers for that classic glossy finish.
Step 5: Cool and Set
Allow the Buckeye Brownie Cookies to cool completely so the chocolate sets perfectly. For an extra-firm chocolate topping, you can pop them in the fridge for about 15 minutes. Once cooled, these cookies are ready to be devoured or packed for sharing!
How to Serve Buckeye Brownie Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt or finely chopped roasted peanuts over the melted chocolate for a crunchy contrast that elevates the flavors. A light dusting of powdered sugar also adds a festive touch without overwhelming the rich peanut butter and chocolate combination.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with a tall glass of milk or a creamy cup of coffee. If you’re serving at a gathering, consider placing them alongside fresh fruit or a bowl of lightly salted nuts to balance the sweetness with a little savory crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the cookies on a rustic wooden board surrounded by mini jars of peanut butter and small bowls of chocolate chips to showcase the ingredients. For holidays, tie a twine ribbon around stacks of these cookies for a charming gift, or serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible dessert treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep any leftover Buckeye Brownie Cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay moist and delicious for up to 5 days, making them a handy treat to enjoy over the week.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They hold up well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature for a couple of hours.
Reheating
For that just-baked feeling, warm your Buckeye Brownie Cookies in a microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This revives their softness and melts the peanut butter center slightly, making each bite even more delightful.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy?
Natural peanut butter contains more oil, which can make the filling runny and harder to shape properly. For best results, stick to creamy peanut butter as it blends smoothly with powdered sugar.
Is it necessary to use fudge-style brownie mix?
Yes, fudge-style brownie mix ensures the cookies stay tender and chewy. Avoid mixes with added syrup or cake-style brownie mixes, as these can change the texture significantly.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
You can try using a gluten-free brownie mix and gluten-free flour alternative. Just be aware that the texture might vary slightly, but you’ll still get a delicious chocolate and peanut butter treat!
Why do we add flour to the brownie mix?
The flour helps to provide enough structure so the dough isn’t too sticky, making it easier to roll into balls and helping the cookies hold their shape during baking.
How do I prevent the peanut butter balls from melting too much in the oven?
Chilling the peanut butter balls before pressing them into the warm cookies helps them maintain their shape. Adding them immediately after baking rather than before also prevents excess melting.
Final Thoughts
This Buckeye Brownie Cookies Recipe is one of those magical desserts that bring together simple ingredients to create something truly special. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a gathering, or just because, these cookies deliver the perfect mix of fudgy brownie, creamy peanut butter, and rich chocolate that everyone will love. Give this recipe a try—your cookie jar will thank you!
Print
Buckeye Brownie Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these Buckeye Brownie Cookies, a luscious fusion of fudgy brownie bites topped with creamy peanut butter centers and drizzled with rich melted chocolate. Perfect for holiday treats or any sweet craving, these cookies blend the chewy texture of brownies with the classic buckeye flavor for an irresistible dessert.
Ingredients
Brownie Dough
- 1 box (18–19 oz) fudge-style brownie mix (no added syrup)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 large egg
Peanut Butter Filling
- ¾ cup creamy peanut butter
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
Chocolate Topping
- 1½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Make Brownie Dough: In a large bowl, mix together the brownie mix, all-purpose flour, vegetable oil, water, and egg until a thick dough forms, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Form Cookie Balls: Scoop approximately 1 tablespoon of brownie dough and roll it into balls. Place these balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake the dough balls in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until the tops are set, indicating they are cooked through but still soft inside.
- Prepare Peanut Butter Filling: While the cookies bake, combine the creamy peanut butter and powdered sugar in a small bowl. Stir until the mixture forms a smooth, firm dough that can be shaped.
- Shape Peanut Butter Balls: Roll the peanut butter dough into ¾-inch balls and set them aside, ready to be added to the cookies after baking.
- Insert Peanut Butter Centers: Once the cookies come out of the oven, immediately press one peanut butter ball gently into the center of each warm cookie, allowing the filling to slightly melt into the brownie base.
- Cool Cookies Slightly: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, stabilizing their shape before adding the chocolate topping.
- Melt Chocolate and Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips and butter together in 20-second intervals, stirring between each until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Top Cookies with Chocolate: Spoon or drizzle the melted chocolate over the peanut butter centers on each cookie, ensuring they are generously coated for maximum flavor.
- Final Cooling: Allow the cookies to cool completely at room temperature until the chocolate topping has set firmly, creating a delightful finish to these decadent treats.
Notes
- Chilling the peanut butter balls before baking can help them maintain their shape better when pressed into the warm cookies.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to keep them fresh and soft.
- For a firmer chocolate finish, place the completed cookies in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes until the topping solidifies.
