Ultimate Fudgy Buckeye Brownies with Creamy Peanut Butter Center
Create decadent, three-layer Buckeye Brownies featuring a rich, fudgy base, a smooth peanut butter filling, and a glossy chocolate topping. This recipe delivers the classic sweet and salty flavor combination in an easy-to-make bar dessert.
- Prep Time: 20 min
- Cook Time: 30 min
- Total Time: 2 hours 50 min
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 box (18.3 ounces) fudge brownie mix (plus ingredients listed on box for brownies)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons shortening or coconut oil
Instructions
- Prepare the brownie layer: Follow the instructions on the brownie mix box to prepare the batter. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Bake according to the box directions for a fudgy texture, usually slightly less time than directed for cake-like brownies. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan.
- Make the peanut butter layer: In a large bowl, beat together the melted butter, peanut butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Spread this peanut butter mixture evenly over the cooled brownie layer.
- Chill the peanut butter layer: Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until the peanut butter layer is firm enough to spread chocolate over without mixing.
- Prepare the chocolate topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and shortening (or coconut oil). Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each interval, until the chocolate is completely smooth and melted.
- Top the brownies: Pour the melted chocolate evenly over the chilled peanut butter layer. Spread quickly to cover the entire surface.
- Set the topping: Return the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate topping is firm.
- Cut and serve: Once set, remove the brownies from the pan and cut them into squares. These are the best buckeye brownie recipe bars you will make.
Notes
- For a richer brownie base, substitute the oil called for on the box with melted butter.
- If you prefer a firmer peanut butter layer, reduce the milk in the filling by one tablespoon.
- To get clean cuts, run your knife under hot water and wipe it dry between each slice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 35
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 20
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Unsaturated Fat: 12
- Trans Fat: 0.5
- Carbohydrates: 40
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 5
- Cholesterol: 25