Imagine the rich, fudgy decadence of a brownie merged with the comforting creaminess of peanut butter, all topped off with a luscious chocolate drizzle. That’s exactly what these Buckeye Brownie Cookies bring to your dessert table! Named after the classic Buckeye candies from Ohio, these cookies capture the spirit of indulgence and nostalgia in every bite. They’re perfect for cookie swaps, holiday trays, or just because you’re craving something truly special.

The story behind this recipe is a familiar one: a family favorite born out of the love for the timeless combination of chocolate and peanut butter. Inspired by my grandmother’s Buckeye candies, I decided to elevate the idea into a cookie that captures all the magic with a touch of modern flair.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent and Fudgy: The base is a rich, brownie-like cookie that’s perfectly soft and chewy.
• Peanut Butter Bliss: The creamy peanut butter topping adds the perfect salty-sweet contrast.
• Customizable Elegance: Whether you drizzle the chocolate with a spoon or go for intricate designs, they’ll look and taste gourmet.
• Perfect for Sharing: These cookies are show-stoppers at any gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• ¼ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt

For the Peanut Butter Topping:

• ½ cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1-2 tbsp milk (as needed)

For the Chocolate Drizzle:

• ½ cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 1 tsp coconut oil (optional for a shiny drizzle)

How to Make Decadent Buckeye Brownie Cookies

Step 1: Make the Cookie Base

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and butter. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each, until melted and smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes light and fluffy—this step helps create that classic brownie texture.
4. Gradually mix the melted chocolate into the egg mixture.
5. Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold until all ingredients are well combined.
6. Use a tablespoon or small cookie scoop to drop dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the tops of the cookies are set but still soft. Cool the cookies completely on the baking sheets.

Step 2: Prepare the Peanut Butter Topping

1. In a mixing bowl, beat together the peanut butter, powdered sugar, and softened butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add milk, 1 teaspoon at a time, until the mixture reaches a thick, pipeable consistency. It should hold its shape but be easy to work with.

Step 3: Assemble the Cookies

1. Roll about 1 teaspoon of the peanut butter mixture into small balls for each cookie. Flatten the balls slightly, then press one onto the center of each cooled cookie.

Step 4: Add the Chocolate Drizzle

1. Melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using) in the microwave, stirring until smooth.
2. Using a spoon or piping bag, drizzle the chocolate over the cookies in whatever pattern speaks to your inner artist.

Step 5: Let Set and Enjoy

1. Allow the cookies to set at room temperature, or speed things up by placing them in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes.
2. Serve these beauties on a platter and watch them vanish!

Helpful Tips

• Get Ahead: The peanut butter topping can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
• Elevate the Flavor: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt before the chocolate sets adds a gourmet touch and enhances the flavors.
• Perfect Texture: Slightly underbake the cookies for an extra gooey, brownie-like texture.

Details

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Bake Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: About 24 cookies
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Notes:

1. Soft Dough: Dough will be brownie-like; refrigerate briefly if too sticky.
2. Spacing: Leave 2 inches between cookies to allow spreading.
3. Peanut Butter Consistency: Mixture should be firm but pliable—adjust with milk as needed.
4. Drizzle Tips: Use a spoon or piping bag; add coconut oil for a shiny finish.
5. Salt Touch: Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top for extra flavor contrast.
6. Storage: Store in an airtight container with a slice of bread to maintain freshness.
7. Freezing: Freeze dough before baking or finished cookies for up to 3 months.
8. Gifting Idea: Perfect for packaging as edible gifts for holidays or celebrations.
9. Nut-Free Option: Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter for allergies.

Storage Instructions

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just allow the cookies to come to room temperature before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)

• Calories: ~180 kcal
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 21g
• Protein: 3g

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but ensure it’s well-mixed, as the oil separation in natural peanut butter can affect the consistency.

2. Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend for great results.

3. Can I double the recipe?
Of course! These cookies are a crowd favorite, so doubling is a smart choice. Just bake in batches to ensure even cooking.

Related Recipes

If you loved these Buckeye Brownie Cookies, you’ll definitely want to try:

• Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies: The Perfect Fudgy and Nutty Pairing!
• Brownie Cookies
• Easy Peanut Butter Blossoms – Classic Cookies with a Chocolatey Twist!

Conclusion

Decadent Buckeye Brownie Cookies are the ultimate way to treat yourself or impress your loved ones with minimal effort. The combination of rich chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and that irresistible drizzle will have everyone coming back for more. So grab your apron, preheat that oven, and let’s bake up some joy!

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