Buckeye brownies are so decadent layered with peanut butter and topped with ganache. This chocolate and peanut butter combination is amazing.

Close up photo of buckeye brownies.
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Buckeye Brownies combine everything you love about Buckeye Balls and Brownies. It is easy to make these bars even with a busy schedule. The rich chocolate topping and peanut butter layer make each bite so decadent.

You will also like Buckeye Bars , Buckeye Dip Recipe and Buckeye Pie. For more brownie ideas, try Deep Fried Brownies and Nutella Brownies.

What are buckeye brownies?

The recipe has a decadent brownie layer, creamy peanut butter layer and everything is topped with chocolate ganache. It is such a decadent treat and simple to make.

There are three delicious layers:

  • Brownie. This fudgy chocolate layer is rich and decadent. It is the base of the recipe.
  • Peanut Butter filling. Everything you love about peanut butter balls is in this layer. The creamy peanut butter and powdered sugar make for a luscious combination.
  • Chocolate topping. The delicious chocolate topping takes this recipe to the next level. Not only does it look pretty but it tastes amazing. It is made from heavy whipping cream and chocolate for a rich topping.

Ingredients: 

Ingredients for buckeye brownies- oil, eggs, peanut butter, brownie mix, chocolate chips, butter, powdered sugar.

For the Brownies

  • Box Brownie Mix (for 9X13 pan size brownies)

The Peanut butter Layer

  • Creamy Peanut Butter. I like Jif or Skippy.
  • Butter, melted 
  • Powdered Sugar 

For the Chocolate Ganache

  • Milk Chocolate Chips
  • Heavy Cream 

You can get the complete ingredient list at the bottom in the recipe card.

Substitutions and Additions

  • Chocolate. You can use dark chocolate chips or semi-sweet chocolate chips in this recipe if you prefer. Another option is milk chocolate chips but it will be sweeter and slightly creamier.
  • Additional toppings. While the classic recipe most closely resembles buckeye candies, feel free to add your spin on it. Some ideas include: chopped nuts, sprinkles and crushed candy.
  • Homemade brownie mix. You can make homemade Brownies instead of using a box mix if you prefer. Either option is fine.

How to make buckeye brownies:

Brownie batter in bowl.

Step 1. Prepare the brownie mix based on the package instructions.

Brownie batter in pan.

Step 2. Pour the batter into a 9X13 pan lined with parchment paper. Allow the paper to overhang on the sides of the pan.  

Mixing bowl with peanut butter mixture.

Step 3. Make the peanut butter layer. While the brownie batter is baking, prepare the peanut butter layer. 

Peanut butter mixture in bowl.

Step 4. In a large mixing bowl combine together the melted butter, peanut butter, and powdered sugar with a hand held mixer until all the ingredients are well combined. 

Peanut butter mixture spread on brownies.

Step 5. When the brownies are done baking, spread the peanut butter mixture evenly on top of the brownies while they are still warm. 

peanut butter spread on top of brownies.

Step 6.  It is important to spread the filling while warm as it will be much easier.

Chocolate chips and cream in a bowl.

Step 7. Then place the chocolate chips and heavy whipping cream in a small microwave-safe bowl. 

Chocolate melted in bowl.

Step 8. Heat in 30 second intervals in the microwave, stirring after each interval, until the chocolate is melted and smooth.  

Chocolate spread on peanut butter layer.

Step 9. Pour the melted chocolate evenly over the peanut butter layer on the brownies.  

Chocolate spread on top.

Step 10. Spread evenly until the top is covered. Refrigerate the brownies for at least 2 hours so that the peanut butter layer and chocolate ganache layer can set.  Then the brownies are ready to cut and serve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do these need to chill?

Yes, the chocolate topping needs time to harden. It normally takes at least 2 hours for the layers to set.

Don’t try to cut the brownies before they have set or you will not have the gorgeous clean layers.

How to store?

Refrigerate the leftover brownies in a covered dish for up to 5 to 7 days.  It is important to keep them chilled so they last longer.

How to freeze?

Once you have cut the brownies into individual slices, flash freeze them for 1 to 2 hours on a baking sheet.

Then wrap them in plastic wrap and again in foil. Next, place the brownies inside a freezer container or bag.

They can be frozen up to 3 months. Since they were flash frozen initially, they will not stick and be very easy to freeze.
Plus, individually wrapping them allows for you to easily grab a brownie.

Close up photo of buckeye brownies.

Tips and tricks:

  • Make sure that you use a brownie mix that includes instructions on how to make the brownies in a 9X13 pan.  This is the size needed for this recipe.
  • You might want to line your baking dish with parchment paper. This will allow for you to easily lift the brownies out for cutting.
  • Cut the brownies while they are still chilled. Wipe any excess off the knife between cuts. This will ensure each one looks nice.
  • Creamy peanut butter works best in this recipe. I do not recommend substituting natural peanut butter.
  • The chocolate topping needs to made using heavy whipping cream. Milk should not be substituted as it will not have the same creamy results.

More easy brownie recipes

Do yourself a favor and make these Buckeye Brownies today. They are so good. Please leave a comment once you try them.

Buckeye Brownies

4.83 from 90 votes
Buckeye brownies are so decadent layered with peanut butter and topped with ganache. This chocolate and peanut butter combination is amazing.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Refrigerate 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 40 minutes
Servings 24
Cuisine American
Course Dessert
Calories 390

Ingredients

FOR THE BROWNIES:

  • 1 Box Brownie Mix for 9X13 pan size brownies
  • *Ingredients to prepare the brownies based on the package instructions

FOR THE PEANUT BUTTER LAYER:

FOR THE CHOCOLATE GANACHE LAYER:

  • 10 oz Milk Chocolate Chips
  • 1/3 cup Heavy Whipping Cream
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Instructions

  • Bake the brownies based on the package instructions in a 9X13 pan lined with parchment paper with the paper overhanging the sides of the pan.
  • While the brownies are baking, prepare the peanut butter layer.  In a large bowl, mix together the melted butter, peanut butter, and powdered sugar with a hand held mixer until all the ingredients are well combined.
  • When the brownies are done baking, spread the peanut butter mixture evenly on top of the brownies while they are still warm.
  • Then place the chocolate chips and heavy whipping cream in a small microwave safe bowl.  Heat in 30-40 seconds intervals in the microwave, stirring after each interval, until the chocolate is melted and smooth.
  • Pour the melted chocolate evenly over the peanut butter layer on the brownies.
  • Refrigerate the brownies for at least 2 hours so that the peanut butter layer and chocolate ganache layer can set.  Then the brownies are ready to serve when chilled and enjoyed!

Recipe Notes

*You can use dark chocolate chips or semi-sweet chocolate chips in this recipe if you prefer. 
*Refrigerate the leftover brownies in a covered dish for up to 5-7 days.  
*Make sure that you use a brownie mix that includes instructions on how to make the brownies in a 9X13 pan.  

Nutrition Facts

Calories 390kcal, Carbohydrates 43g, Protein 5g, Fat 23g, Saturated Fat 8g, Polyunsaturated Fat 3g, Monounsaturated Fat 9g, Trans Fat 1g, Cholesterol 21mg, Sodium 186mg, Potassium 96mg, Fiber 1g, Sugar 34g, Vitamin A 252IU, Vitamin C 1mg, Calcium 26mg, Iron 1mg

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About the Author

Hi, I’m Carrie. Welcome to Desserts on a Dime!

I’m on a mission to help you create delicious desserts on a budget and do not require a ton of time. Together, we are going to make something sweet that the entire family will love!

4.83 from 90 votes (90 ratings without comment)

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