Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Best-Ever Buckeye Brownies are a dream come true for peanut butter and chocolate lovers. The brownie base is wonderfully fudgy, while the peanut butter layer adds a creamy richness that pairs perfectly with the decadent chocolate topping. The combination of textures – from the soft brownie to the smooth peanut butter to the glossy chocolate – makes each bite absolutely irresistible. This dessert is easy to make, can be prepped quickly, and will definitely disappear fast, so be prepared to share the recipe when you take them to your next gathering!

Ingredients

1 (18.4 ounce) package brownie mix (such as Pillsbury)
⅔ cup vegetable oil
¼ cup water
2 eggs
2 cups confectioners’ sugar
1 cup creamy peanut butter
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 (6 ounce) package chocolate chips
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a bowl, combine the brownie mix, vegetable oil, water, and eggs. Stir until smooth. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 28 to 31 minutes, or until the edges start to pull away from the sides of the pan. Let the brownies cool completely.
In a separate bowl, beat the confectioners’ sugar, peanut butter, and ½ cup softened butter together until smooth and creamy. Spread this peanut butter mixture evenly over the cooled brownies.
In a saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate chips and 6 tablespoons of butter together, stirring occasionally, until smooth and melted, about 5 minutes.
Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the peanut butter layer. Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting them into squares.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 36
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Additional Time: 30 minutes (cooling)
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

Nutty topping: If you like a bit of crunch, you can add chopped peanuts or even crushed pretzels to the top of the chocolate layer for an extra texture.
Brownie base variations: Try using a different brownie mix or even making your own homemade brownie base if you want a more personalized flavor.
Chocolate options: For a twist, use dark chocolate chips or milk chocolate chips in the topping. You could also drizzle a bit of caramel or butterscotch sauce on top.
Peanut butter alternatives: If you’re not a fan of peanut butter or have allergies, try using almond butter or cashew butter as a substitute.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover Best-Ever Buckeye Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. These brownies are best enjoyed fresh, but they will hold their flavor and texture well for several days. If you want to enjoy them warm, simply microwave individual squares for a few seconds.

FAQs

Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

Yes, these brownies can be made ahead of time. Prepare them up to 2 days in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature.

Can I use a different brand of brownie mix?

Yes, if you’re using a different brand of brownie mix, just follow the directions on the box for the correct ingredients and baking times. The other ingredients in this recipe remain the same.

Can I make these brownies without the peanut butter layer?

If you’re not a fan of peanut butter, you can skip the peanut butter layer and just top the brownies with the chocolate. However, the peanut butter adds a creamy, indulgent layer that really makes these brownies special!

Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes, you can freeze these brownies! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and store them in an airtight container. They’ll last up to 3 months in the freezer. Let them thaw at room temperature before serving.

How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter), they’re ready to remove from the oven.

Can I add other toppings to the brownies?

Absolutely! You can top the brownies with crushed candy bars, mini marshmallows, or even a swirl of caramel for a fun twist.

Can I make the brownie base from scratch instead of using a mix?

Yes, you can make a homemade brownie base if you prefer. Use your favorite brownie recipe, and bake it according to the instructions before adding the peanut butter and chocolate layers.

Can I use smooth peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, smooth peanut butter and creamy peanut butter are the same, so you can use whichever you have on hand.

How long should I let the brownies cool before cutting them?

Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting into squares. This helps the layers set and makes the brownies easier to slice.

Can I make a smaller batch of these brownies?

Yes, you can halve the recipe and bake it in a smaller baking dish, such as an 8×8-inch pan. Adjust the baking time as needed.

Conclusion

Best-Ever Buckeye Brownies are the perfect dessert for any occasion, combining the rich flavor of fudgy brownies with the creamy goodness of peanut butter and a decadent chocolate topping. These treats are easy to make and are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re a fan of peanut butter or simply love a good brownie, these brownies are an irresistible indulgence. Prepare to share the recipe because everyone will be asking for it!

Best-Ever Buckeye Brownies

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A fun and creative dessert that combines a rich brownie crust with creamy banana pudding, fresh fruit, and crunchy nuts, all topped with chocolate sauce.

Author: Amy
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 12 servings
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat a 12-inch round pizza pan with cooking spray.
In a large bowl, combine the brownie mix, vegetable oil, water, and eggs. Stir for 50 strokes with a spoon.
Spread the brownie batter evenly onto the prepared pizza pan.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the brownie crust to cool completely, about 30 minutes.
While the crust is cooling, beat the banana cream pudding mix and cream cheese in a bowl until smooth. Gradually add the cold milk and mix until smooth and creamy.
Fold in 1/3 of the whipped topping, then spread the pudding mixture over the cooled brownie crust. Top evenly with the remaining whipped topping.
Decorate the dessert pizza with sliced bananas, strawberries, and pineapple tidbits. Drizzle chocolate sauce over the top and sprinkle with chopped peanuts.
If serving immediately, cut into 12 slices and top each slice with a maraschino cherry. Alternatively, refrigerate until ready to serve.