Name: Buckeye Brownie Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box fudge brownie mix (19.5 ounces or family size); 1/4 cup butter, melted; 4 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1 large egg; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips

Jump to Recipe

Get ready to fall absolutely in love with Buckeye Brownie Cookies—a magical blend of fudgy brownie bites, creamy peanut butter, and silky chocolate all in one irresistible handheld treat! These cookie marvels channel the classic flavors of a buckeye candy, topped off with a thick layer of brownie goodness. Whether you’re baking for a crowd, impressing dessert lovers at a potluck, or sneaking a midnight snack, Buckeye Brownie Cookies will be the show-stopping finish you’ve been searching for.

Buckeye Brownie Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how such a short list of pantry staples can make something this spectacular! Every ingredient brings its own unique flair to these cookies—think brownies that never dry out, peanut butter centers that melt in your mouth, and that glossy chocolate finish nobody can resist.

Fudge brownie mix: The base for our cookies, this gives the chewy, chocolatey texture we all dream of.
Butter (melted): Enriches the dough and makes the cookies irresistibly tender.
Cream cheese (softened): Adds creaminess and helps create the perfect cookie bite—never cakey, always moist.
Large egg: Acts as a binder and gives structure for thick, impressive cookies.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens and firms up the peanut butter center without any grittiness.
Creamy peanut butter: The star of the classic buckeye flavor; make sure to use creamy for perfect mixing.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melt down for the shiny, decadent topper every Buckeye Brownie Cookie deserves.

How to Make Buckeye Brownie Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Cookie Dough

First things first, set your oven to 350 degrees to preheat—it’s key for perfectly crisp edges and soft centers. In a medium bowl, blend the fudge brownie mix, melted butter, softened cream cheese, and egg. The dough gets nice and thick (a little sticky; don’t worry, that’s just what you want!). Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop the dough onto an ungreased baking sheet, aiming for 24 generous cookies. To get bakery-style rounds, smooth the edges of each scoop with your fingers.

Step 2: Mix Up the Peanut Butter Centers

While your brownie dough rests, grab a fresh bowl and combine the creamy peanut butter with powdered sugar. Stir until it comes together into a firm, scoopable dough. Roll this mixture into 1-inch balls—one for each cookie. These little gems are about to be the surprise inside every Buckeye Brownie Cookie!

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

Slide your cookie tray into the preheated oven and bake for 12 minutes. Keep an eagle eye on them; you want a soft center, not dry or overdone. They’ll puff up a bit and the aroma will tell you they’re ready to come out.

Step 4: Add Peanut Butter Centers

As soon as the cookies emerge, gently press a peanut butter ball into the center of each warm cookie. The heat will soften the filling just enough to nestle it right in. Let them rest on the tray for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack so they cool completely and the peanut butter firms up.

Step 5: Top with Melted Chocolate

For the finishing flourish, melt your semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl—start with 30 seconds, stir well, then pop back for 15 more seconds until silky smooth. Dollop about half a tablespoon on top of each cookie, letting the chocolate cover the peanut butter ball in a luscious swirl. Allow the chocolate to set before storing or serving.

How to Serve Buckeye Brownie Cookies

Garnishes

A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt on the melted chocolate transforms these cookies from delicious to unforgettable. You could also add a dusting of cocoa powder or a drizzle of white chocolate for extra flair. Sometimes, a few chopped peanuts on top will give them a playful, crunchy twist!

Side Dishes

For a cookie platter, pair your Buckeye Brownie Cookies with fresh berries, vanilla ice cream, or a cozy mug of coffee or hot chocolate. They balance beautifully with a tall glass of cold milk or, for grown-ups, a little sweet dessert wine.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re gifting these treasures, stack them in a clear cellophane bag tied with ribbon for a charming homemade present. For parties, arrange them on a tiered dessert stand—they look seriously impressive! You can even pack a few in school lunches for a special midday treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Buckeye Brownie Cookies keep best in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to keep that glossy chocolate top pristine and prevent sticking.

Freezing

You can freeze the finished cookies or the raw dough balls (both the brownie and peanut butter layers). For finished cookies, freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a zip-top bag, and enjoy within 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for best flavor and texture.

Reheating

While these cookies are fabulous at room temp, a quick 10-second zap in the microwave makes them taste freshly baked. The peanut butter softens and the chocolate goes glossy again—try it and see!

FAQs

What makes Buckeye Brownie Cookies different from standard brownies?

The magic is all in the layers! Buckeye Brownie Cookies combine the dense, fudgy brownie base you love with a creamy, sweet peanut butter center and a sleek chocolate cap, whereas traditional brownies are just one consistent texture throughout.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Definitely! If you like a little texture contrast, go for crunchy peanut butter. Just make sure it’s not too dry—mixing in an extra teaspoon of melted butter can help smooth things out if needed.

What if I don’t have cream cheese?

Cream cheese is secret to the chewy, soft texture, but if you’re in a pinch, try swapping with equal parts Greek yogurt or even thick sour cream. The cookies might be a touch cakier, but still deliciously rich.

How do I know when the cookies are baked perfectly?

Watch for the surface to look set with slightly crackly edges—the center might still look soft, but it will firm up as the cookies cool. Overbaking can dry them out, so I usually check a minute or two early.

Can Buckeye Brownie Cookies be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap out the regular brownie mix for your favorite gluten-free version. Be sure to check that your other ingredients are gluten-free and bake as usual.

Final Thoughts

Give these Buckeye Brownie Cookies a try the next time you’re craving something extraordinary—they’re surprisingly easy, incredibly decadent, and sure to be a new favorite at your dessert table. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe close at hand!

Buckeye Brownie Cookies Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 28 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Buckeye Brownie Cookies are a delightful combination of fudgy brownie cookies topped with creamy peanut butter and decadent chocolate, creating a perfect treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Brownie Cookie Dough:

1 box fudge brownie mix (19.5 ounces or family size)
1/4 cup butter, melted
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 large egg

Peanut Butter Filling:

1 cup powdered sugar
1 cup creamy peanut butter

Chocolate Topping:

4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

Prepare Brownie Cookie Dough: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a medium bowl, mix brownie mix, melted butter, softened cream cheese, and egg until well combined. Scoop dough onto an ungreased cookie sheet, forming about 24 cookies.
Make Peanut Butter Filling: In another bowl, combine powdered sugar and peanut butter to form 1-inch balls, one for each cookie.
Bake: Bake cookie dough for 12 minutes, ensuring they are cooked but not overdone.
Add Peanut Butter Filling: Immediately after baking, press a peanut butter ball into the center of each cookie. Let cool for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Prepare Chocolate Topping: Melt chocolate in the microwave, then spoon over each cookie to cover the peanut butter ball. Allow chocolate to set before storing.