Buckeye Fudge Peanut Butter Bars

Buckeye Brownies are the best answer whenever I am craving the ultimate combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter. Imagine layers of ultra fudgy homemade brownie topped with a thick peanut butter filling and finished with a shiny chocolate ganache. This recipe never fails to impress at family gatherings and every bite feels like a treat.

I first made these Buckeye Brownies for a big game day and everyone instantly asked for seconds. Now they are my go to whenever my family wants something indulgent but absolutely doable from scratch.

Ingredients

• All purpose flour: brings structure and holds the brownies together Select a fresh bag to avoid stale flavors
• Salt: balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate Always use pure salt rather than salt blends
• Unsweetened natural cocoa powder: provides deep chocolate flavor Choose a high quality dark cocoa for the best brownie base
• Unsweetened chocolate: intensifies the fudgy texture Buy solid bars instead of chips for better melting
• Unsalted butter: adds richness throughout the brownies and peanut butter layer Pick high fat creamy sticks for the most luscious results
• Granulated sugar: sweetens while keeping the brownies chewy Use fine baking sugar for a smooth crumb
• Large eggs: bind the batter and create that crave worthy texture Try to use room temperature eggs for even mixing
• Vegetable oil: maintains moistness and keeps the edges soft Opt for mild tasting oil like canola or sunflower
• Vanilla extract: infuses warmth into both batter and filling Seek out real extract rather than imitation for the best taste
• Creamy peanut butter: forms the heart of the filling Use a standard processed type such as Jif or Skippy for smoothest results
• Powdered sugar: creates that sweet fluffy peanut butter layer Always sift if your sugar is clumpy
• Heavy cream: softens the filling and ensures a smooth ganache Pick a fresh carton and check the date for best results
• Semi sweet chocolate chips: make for a glossy ganache topping Go for real chocolate chips rather than baking morsels to ensure smooth melting

Step by Step Instructions

Prepare and Preheat:

Set your oven to 350 degrees F and line a nine by thirteen inch baking pan with parchment paper Be generous with the overhang for easy removal

Mix Dry Ingredients:

Thoroughly whisk flour salt and cocoa powder together in a medium bowl This prevents pockets of cocoa from forming and ensures an even flavor throughout

Melt Chocolate and Butter:

Place chopped unsweetened chocolate and cubed butter in a small saucepan over low heat Stir gently until melted and completely smooth This step is key for a shiny crackly brownie top

Beat Eggs and Sugar:

In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer beat granulated sugar and eggs for a full minute until pale and doubled in volume This adds life to the brownies by whipping in much needed air

Combine Wet Ingredients:

With the mixer on low slowly drizzle in the warm melted chocolate mixture Then add vegetable oil and vanilla extract blending everything to a consistent mixture

Mix Batter:

Gradually add dry ingredients into the wet mixture Stir just until the batter is smooth Resist over mixing for the chewiest results

Bake and Cool:

Pour the batter into the lined pan and level the surface Bake for twenty five to thirty five minutes The brownies are ready when a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs Cool the brownies fully in the pan for best layering

Make Peanut Butter Filling:

Beat creamy peanut butter softened butter and vanilla extract in a medium bowl until silky and even Gradually add powdered sugar on low and then on medium speed until you have a thick crumbly mixture If too stiff beat in a splash of heavy cream The texture should be thick yet spreadable

Spread Filling:

Dollop the peanut butter mixture over cooled brownies and spread evenly to the sides Use an offset spatula for a neat finish

Make Ganache:

Place chocolate chips in a heat safe bowl Heat heavy cream in a small pot just until it simmers Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for a minute or two Stir gently until totally smooth

Top and Chill:

Pour ganache over the peanut butter layer Gently spread to cover Refrigerate for at least an hour so the bars firm up This makes slicing clean and easy

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The best part for me is swirling the ganache over that peanut butter layer My daughter always helps at this part and it is a kitchen memory I hope she will keep I can never resist sneaking a square before the whole batch disappears

Storage Tips

Buckeye Brownies are best stored in the refrigerator Covered tightly with foil or an airtight lid they will stay fresh and fudgy for up to five days You can also freeze them cut into squares with parchment between layers They thaw beautifully at room temperature

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are out of unsweetened chocolate add an extra quarter cup of cocoa powder plus two tablespoons butter to the mix Almond or cashew butter can sometimes be swapped for peanut butter if allergies are a concern Just make sure it is creamy and not too oily

Serving Suggestions

Serve Buckeye Brownies cold from the fridge for sharp clean layers or let them rest at room temp for a gooier bite For parties drizzle with a little extra melted chocolate or top with chopped peanuts for crunch They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or cold milk

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Cultural History

Buckeye Brownies borrow their flavor from the classic Buckeye candy which originated in Ohio Named for the buckeye tree nut these treats are a sweet staple at Midwest gatherings and game days Brownies were my twist to make the treat even more craveable

Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe

→ What makes Buckeye Brownies unique?

The signature layers: a rich brownie base, creamy peanut butter filling, and smooth ganache topping create irresistible contrast in texture and taste.

→ How do I get a clean cut for each bar?

Wipe your knife between each slice with a warm, damp towel to ensure neat, bakery-style pieces.

→ Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, but the topping will have more texture. Smooth peanut butter yields a classic, creamy finish.

→ How long should I chill before serving?

For best results, chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or until completely set and easy to slice.

→ Is it possible to freeze the finished bars?

They freeze well—wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving for best texture.