Buckeye Brownie Cookies: Decadent Chocolate and Peanut Butter Perfection

Name: Buckeye Brownie Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box (19.5-ounce) fudge brownie mix; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon cornstarch; ¼ 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

If you’re a fan of rich, chocolatey desserts with a hint of peanut butter, you’re in for a treat. Buckeye Brownie Cookies are a delightful fusion of classic brownie and cookie flavors, topped with creamy peanut butter and smooth chocolate. This recipe combines the best of both worlds, offering a gooey center with a crisp edge, all crowned with a delicious peanut butter ball and a glossy chocolate topping. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just indulging in a sweet craving, these cookies are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love Buckeye Brownie Cookies

Buckeye Brownie Cookies are not just your ordinary cookies—they are a mouthwatering blend of textures and flavors. The brownie mix creates a soft, chewy base, while the peanut butter ball in the center adds a creamy richness. Topped with melted chocolate, these cookies deliver a decadent dessert experience. They’re perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to casual snacks.

Ingredients for Buckeye Brownie Cookies

For the Brownie Dough:

1 box fudge brownie mix (19.5-ounce or family size): Provides the rich, chocolatey base of the cookie.

2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds depth and a hint of warmth to the flavor.
1 teaspoon cornstarch: Helps in binding the dough and ensuring a soft texture.
¼ cup butter, melted: Contributes to the rich, buttery flavor.

4 ounces cream cheese, softened: Adds a creamy, smooth texture.
1 egg: Binds the ingredients together and helps the dough set.

For the Peanut Butter Balls:

1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the peanut butter mixture.

1 cup creamy peanut butter: Provides a rich, nutty flavor and creamy texture.

For the Chocolate Topping:

4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips: Used to create a luscious chocolate topping.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Buckeye Brownie Cookies

Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use an ungreased cookie sheet to prevent sticking.

Prepare the Brownie Dough

In a medium bowl, mix together the fudge brownie mix, vanilla extract, cornstarch, melted butter, softened cream cheese, and egg. Use a hand mixer to blend until the dough is smooth. Note that the dough will be quite sticky.

Shape the Dough

Scoop the dough into balls, each about 1-1.5 tablespoons in size, and place them on the prepared cookie sheet. Smooth the edges of each scoop to form a round cookie shape.

Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies for approximately 12 minutes. They should be set around the edges but remain soft in the center. This ensures a chewy, brownie-like texture.

Prepare the Peanut Butter Balls

While the cookies are baking, mix together the powdered sugar and creamy peanut butter in a medium bowl. Roll this mixture into small 1-inch balls—one ball for each cookie. Set them aside until the cookies are ready.

Add Peanut Butter to Cookies

As soon as the cookies come out of the oven, gently press one peanut butter ball into the center of each cookie. The heat from the cookies will slightly soften the peanut butter mixture. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwavable bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. This step creates the glossy chocolate topping for the cookies.

Top the Cookies

Spoon about ½ tablespoon of melted chocolate on top of each cookie, covering the peanut butter ball. Let the chocolate set completely before serving or storing the cookies.

Baking Tips for Perfect Buckeye Brownie Cookies

Chill the Dough: If the dough is too sticky to handle, refrigerate it for 30 minutes before shaping.
Uniform Size: Ensure all dough balls are of uniform size for even baking.

Check for Doneness: The cookies should be firm around the edges but soft in the center. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture.
Let Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up and makes handling easier.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 32 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies

Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Diet: Vegetarian

Nutritional Facts (per cookie, approximately)

Calories: 250 kcal
Fat: 14g

Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 4g
Sugar: 24g

Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 150mg

FAQs

Can I use a different type of brownie mix?

Yes, you can use any type of brownie mix you prefer. Adjust the baking time if necessary, as different mixes may vary in consistency.

Can I substitute the creamy peanut butter with crunchy?

Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter for added texture. Just be aware that it will alter the smoothness of the filling.

How should I store leftover cookies?

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cookies and freeze them before baking. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What can I use if I don’t have cream cheese?

If you don’t have cream cheese, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or sour cream. This will slightly change the flavor and texture but still result in delicious cookies.