Name: Buckeye Brownies
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 3 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup dark chocolate, chopped; 10 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 ¼ cups light brown sugar, packed; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ cup cocoa powder (60-70% cocoa, Dutch processed preferred); ½ cup all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup creamy peanut butter (not natural-style); ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt (optional, depending on peanut butter); 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate (about 6 ounces); ½ cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional, for shine); Pinch of salt (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 14 reviews

I have always been a huge fan of the magic that happens when chocolate meets peanut butter, so these Buckeye Brownies quickly became one of my absolute favorite desserts. The way the moist, rich brownie base melts in your mouth, topped with a luscious, creamy peanut butter layer, and then finished with a silky ganache makes every bite feel indulgent yet comforting. Whenever I make these, I am instantly transported to happy memories and excited smiles from anyone lucky enough to try them. Buckeye Brownies truly feel like a special treat that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Buckeye Brownies

What I adore most about these Buckeye Brownies is their beautifully balanced flavor profile. The deep, slightly bitter chocolate of the brownies pairs perfectly with the sweet, creamy peanut butter layer, creating a harmony that’s both nostalgic and irresistible. The smooth ganache topping adds just the right touch of decadence without overpowering the other layers, making every forkful feel like a bite of pure happiness. You can’t help but savor each mouthful slowly, and somehow, the combination feels so classic yet totally elevated.

Another huge plus for me is how approachable this recipe is. I love that the brownies are baked from scratch, giving full control over texture and richness, yet the peanut butter layer and ganache are so straightforward to make with simple ingredients I always have on hand. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just looking to impress with something truly crave-worthy, this recipe won’t let you down. I often make these for holidays, gatherings, or even just a cozy night in—this dessert never fails to be the star of the show, and honestly, I think it’s the perfect way to celebrate any special moment.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a flat lay of various baking ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. There are twelve separate containers and three eggs scattered in the middle. Starting from the top left, there is a white bowl filled with dark chocolate chips, followed by a large clear glass bowl filled with white powdered sugar. To the right, a smaller clear glass bowl with white cream. Below the chocolate chips, a clear bowl holds creamy peanut butter with a smooth, swirled texture. A small light wood bowl with white salt sits in the center. Next to it is a small white bowl filled with dark brown vanilla extract, and to the right, three brown eggs resting directly on the surface. Below the eggs, a clear glass bowl contains dark brown sugar with a coarse texture, and adjacent to it is a clear glass bowl with light cream. On the bottom left, a clear glass bowl holds white granulated sugar, beside it a small white bowl with cocoa powder showing a rough texture, and next to that, a white bowl with several blocks of yellow butter. The ingredients create a clean and organized presentation. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The ingredients for these Buckeye Brownies are wonderfully simple but essential to achieving the perfect balance of taste, texture, and appearance. Each one plays a critical role, whether it’s building that fudgy brownie base or creating the creamy, dreamy peanut butter layer, topped off with the glossy ganache.

Dark chocolate (½ cup, chopped): Use good-quality chocolate for a rich, decadent flavor in the brownie base.
Unsalted butter (10 tablespoons + ½ cup for peanut butter layer + 1 tablespoon optional for ganache): Adds moisture and a silky texture in all parts of the dessert.
Light brown sugar (1 ¼ cup, packed): Brings a subtle caramel note and keeps the brownies moist.
Large eggs (2, room temperature): Helps bind the batter and add richness.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon for brownie base + 1 teaspoon for peanut butter layer): Enhances the overall flavor with warmth and depth.
Cocoa powder (½ cup, Dutch processed preferred): Provides that deeply chocolate-y taste and a dark beautiful color.
All-purpose flour (½ cup): Creates the perfect brownie structure—soft but holds together nicely.
Salt (½ teaspoon + a pinch optional in peanut butter layer and ganache): Balances sweetness and boosts flavor complexity.
Creamy peanut butter (1 cup, not natural-style): The star of the peanut butter layer—smooth and rich for the perfect texture.
Powdered sugar (2 cups, sifted): Sweetens and thickens the peanut butter layer into a spreadable frosting.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup or about 6 ounces chopped): Forms the silky ganache topping when melted with cream.
Heavy cream (½ cup): Essential for creating that glossy, smooth ganache.

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of your brownies later.

Step 2: Melt 10 tablespoons of unsalted butter and ½ cup chopped dark chocolate together either over low heat on the stove or in short bursts in the microwave. Stir gently until the mixture is completely smooth and glossy. This rich base sets the tone for the entire dessert.

Step 3: Stir in both granulated sugar (you can substitute a part of it with brown sugar if you like that caramel note) and 1 ¼ cups packed light brown sugar until the mixture looks shiny and well combined. Then whisk in the two large eggs and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until the batter becomes thickened and smooth.

Step 4: Sift together ½ cup all-purpose flour, ½ cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder, and ½ teaspoon salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until combined—avoid overmixing to keep your brownies tender and fudgy.

Step 5: Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for about 45 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick poked into the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter). Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before moving on to the next layer.

Step 6: While the brownies are cooling, whisk together 1 cup creamy peanut butter and ½ cup softened unsalted butter until light and fluffy. Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and a pinch of salt if your peanut butter is not salted. Gradually add 2 cups sifted powdered sugar, beating until thick and spreadable.

Step 7: Spread the peanut butter mixture evenly over the cooled brownie base using an offset spatula, then refrigerate for 15 to 30 minutes to firm up the layer.

Step 8: To make the ganache, gently heat ½ cup heavy cream just until it begins to simmer (do not boil), and pour over 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let sit for 1 to 2 minutes, then stir gently until glossy and smooth. If you want an extra shiny finish, stir in a tablespoon of butter and a pinch of salt.

Step 9: Let the ganache cool for about 5 to 10 minutes, then pour it evenly over the chilled peanut butter layer. Use a spatula to smooth the top, then chill the entire pan in the fridge for at least one hour until the ganache sets completely.

Step 10: Once set, slice your Buckeye Brownies into 16 squares. Serve chilled or at room temperature, and watch everyone’s faces light up with joy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields 16 deliciously rich brownies, perfect for sharing with a medium-sized crowd or for indulging over a few days. The prep time is about 30 minutes, mainly spent mixing and layering. Baking takes 45 to 55 minutes, and the chilling time totals approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to ensure the layers set perfectly. In total, expect to spend around 3 hours from start to finish, though most of that is hands-off chilling time—perfect for preparing ahead.

How to Serve This Buckeye Brownies

The image shows a stack of three thick square dessert bars on a white marbled surface. Each bar has three layers: a dark brown, moist and slightly crumbly bottom layer; a thick middle layer of light tan, textured peanut butter filling; and a smooth, glossy dark chocolate layer on top. The edges are clean and the bars are neatly piled, with the top bar slightly tipped to reveal the layers clearly, and soft, natural lighting highlights the rich colors and textures of each layer. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

I love serving these Buckeye Brownies chilled or at room temperature because the layers hold nicely, and the ganache has that perfect silky texture. For a sophisticated presentation, I sometimes dust the tops lightly with cocoa powder or sprinkle a few chopped roasted peanuts for a hint of texture and an extra peanut punch. You can cut the brownies into perfect squares or even smaller bite-sized pieces for a party tray—either way, they disappear fast!

These brownies pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of lightly whipped cream. For a beverage, I highly recommend a bold cup of coffee or a rich, slightly sweet dessert wine like a tawny port or a smooth cream-based cocktail. If you’re serving these at a family gathering or holiday party, I also find that a cold glass of milk is an unbeatable classic companion.

Because they are quite rich, these Buckeye Brownies shine when served in small portions, making them a perfect ending to a special meal or a sweet afternoon pick-me-up. I always suggest plating them on a simple dessert plate with a small fork to let your guests savor each decadent bite. They’re instantly the star of any occasion, guaranteed to spark conversations and keep everyone coming back for more.

Variations

If you want to shake things up with this Buckeye Brownies recipe, there are so many fun ways to customize. I sometimes swap the creamy peanut butter for natural peanut butter blended with a touch of honey and coconut oil for a slightly healthier twist, and it still tastes fantastic! For those avoiding gluten, I’ve had great luck using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend right in the brownie base with no noticeable difference in texture.

For my vegan friends, replacing the butter with vegan buttery spreads, using flax eggs instead of chicken eggs, and non-dairy cream for the ganache makes a delightful plant-based alternative without sacrificing any of the magic. You can even try adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of the ganache for a salty-sweet sensation that I find absolutely addictive.

In terms of flavors, sometimes I add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the brownie batter to intensify the chocolate or swirl in some raspberry jam between the brownie and peanut butter layers for a fruity surprise. Experimenting with different nut butters, such as almond or cashew, also creates delicious variations. Whether you bake them traditionally or try them as brownie bites or bars, this recipe is wonderfully versatile and always a crowd-pleaser.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying some of these Buckeye Brownies fresh, I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain the structure of the peanut butter layer and ganache. They keep well for up to 4 to 5 days. I recommend placing parchment paper between layers if you stack brownies to avoid any sticking and mess.

Freezing

These brownies freeze beautifully if you want to prepare ahead or save some for later. I usually wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge again, thaw them overnight in the fridge to preserve the layered texture and flavor perfectly.

Reheating

Because of the multi-layered nature of Buckeye Brownies, I prefer enjoying them chilled or at room temperature rather than reheated. If you want to warm them slightly, I suggest placing a piece on a plate and warming in the microwave at 20-second intervals, just until slightly softened—not hot—to avoid melting the ganache into a runny mess. For the best flavor and texture, I find they taste just as divine without any heat at all.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought brownie mix to make Buckeye Brownies?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time or want to simplify the process, you can use your favorite brownie mix as the base. Just be sure to add a couple of extra eggs to keep the texture moist and fudgy. Then, proceed with the peanut butter layer and ganache as usual for that signature Buckeye Brownies taste.

What type of peanut butter works best for the peanut butter layer?

I recommend using creamy peanut butter that’s not natural-style because it provides the smooth, sweet consistency needed to make the peanut butter layer spreadable and lush. Natural peanut butter with oils separated might make the layer less stable and more oily, but if that’s what you have, just be sure to stir it well before using.

Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, making these Buckeye Brownies a day ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the ganache to set up perfectly. Just keep them chilled until ready to serve, and bring to room temperature if you prefer a softer bite before serving.

Is it possible to make the recipe gluten-free?

Definitely. Replacing the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in a 1:1 ratio works well for these brownies. Just make sure your other ingredients, like baking chocolate and peanut butter, are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.

Can I substitute the ganache topping with something else?

While the ganache is signature to these Buckeye Brownies, you could try a simple melted chocolate drizzle or even a peanut butter frosting if you want something different. However, that silky ganache layer really balances the richness and sweetness perfectly, so I highly recommend sticking with it if possible!

Conclusion

I genuinely hope you give these Buckeye Brownies a try because they are one of those recipes that bring extra joy to any occasion. The combination of fudgy brownies, creamy peanut butter, and luscious chocolate ganache is pure magic in dessert form. Once you make them, I promise they’ll become a staple in your baking repertoire and a beloved treat for everyone you share them with. Enjoy every bite!