Buckeye Brownie Cookies
If you’ve never had a buckeye before, then you probably haven’t been to the Midwest. These peanut butter fudge candies dipped in chocolate are especially popular in Ohio, but you can find them in a lot of the neighboring states. If you’re a fan of peanut butter and chocolate, this is the dessert for you! Even people who claim not to like this classic duo end up loving these cookies.
This recipe is made easy by using a boxed brownie mix as a base. By adding just a few ingredients to the mix, you’ll get a cookie with a perfectly dense yet almost creamy texture. Add on a dollop of 2-ingredient peanut butter fudge and some melted chocolate chips, and we’re in business!
Like I previously stated, this recipe starts with a box of fudge brownie mix. You’ll add vanilla, cornstarch, butter, softened cream cheese, and one egg to the brownie mix, and stir until combined. The dough will be sticky, but that’s exactly how we want it!
Pop the brownie cookies into the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. In the meantime, combine peanut butter and powdered sugar in a bowl. Form the mixture into 1-inch balls (one for each of the cookies).
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Buckeye Brownie Cookies capture the rich flavors of chocolate and peanut butter in a delightful bite-sized treat. The use of a brownie mix makes the preparation quick and simple, while the addition of cream cheese gives each cookie a smooth and creamy texture. They’re perfect for any occasion and are sure to impress both kids and adults alike.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium mixing bowl
- Hand mixer
- Cookie sheet
- Wire rack
- Microwavable bowl
Ingredients
- 1 box fudge brownie mix (19.5 ounce or family size)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 egg
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a medium bowl, combine the brownie mix, vanilla extract, cornstarch, melted butter, softened cream cheese, and egg using a hand mixer. The dough will be sticky.
- Scoop the dough onto an ungreased cookie sheet and smooth the edges to form round cookies. Bake for 12 minutes.
- While the cookies bake, mix powdered sugar and peanut butter in a bowl. Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls, making one for each cookie.
- After removing the cookies from the oven, press a peanut butter ball lightly into the center of each cookie. The peanut butter will slightly soften. Let them cool for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Melt the chocolate chips in a microwavable bowl in 30-second increments. Spoon about 1/2 tablespoon of melted chocolate over each cookie to cover the peanut butter ball. Let the chocolate set before storing cookies in an airtight container.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened for easy mixing.
- Work quickly when pressing peanut butter balls onto warm cookies to allow them to adhere properly.
- Chill the cookies briefly before serving to set the chocolate faster.
Additional Tips or Variations
- For a crunchy twist, use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy.
- Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the chocolate for a sweet and salty flavor.
- Consider using dark chocolate chips for a richer taste.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Calories: 250 | Fat: 15g | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 5g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use homemade brownie mix instead of boxed?
Yes, you can use homemade brownie mix. Just ensure it yields a similar consistency to the boxed mix.
How should I store these cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Conclusion
These Buckeye Brownie Cookies are a delightful and easy treat that combines the classic flavors of chocolate and peanut butter. Perfect for any gathering or just a cozy night in, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household. Give them a try and let us know how they turn out. We’d love to hear about your experience in the comments below!
