Indulge in the perfect marriage of brownies and cookies with our irresistible Buckeye Brownie Cookies recipe. These decadent treats combine the rich flavors of fudge brownies with the creamy goodness of peanut butter, creating a dessert that’s sure to satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a delightful indulgence, these cookies are bound to become a new favorite in your repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1 box fudge brownie mix (19.5 ounce or family size)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/4 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
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Prepare the Brownie Mix:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the fudge brownie mix, vanilla extract, cornstarch, melted butter, cream cheese, and egg. Mix until well combined and smooth.
- Form the Dough:
- Scoop the dough using a tablespoon or cookie scoop and roll into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
- Make the Peanut Butter Filling:
- In a separate bowl, mix together powdered sugar and peanut butter until smooth.
- Assemble the Cookies:
- Flatten each ball of dough with your palm and place a small spoonful of the peanut butter mixture in the center.
- Fold the edges of the dough over the filling and seal to form a ball again.
- Bake:
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until set and slightly firm around the edges.
- Melt the Chocolate:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Finish the Cookies:
- Once the cookies are baked and cooled slightly, drizzle the melted chocolate over the tops.
- Allow the chocolate to set before serving or storing.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Storage: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.
- Add Some Crunch: For extra texture, sprinkle chopped peanuts or chocolate chips on top of the melted chocolate.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free brownie mix to make these cookies suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use homemade brownie batter instead of a boxed mix? A: Yes, you can use homemade brownie batter if you prefer. Just make sure it’s thick enough to hold its shape when forming the cookies.
Q: Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy? A: Absolutely! Feel free to use crunchy peanut butter for added texture in the filling.
Q: Can I freeze Buckeye Brownie Cookies? A: Yes, you can freeze these cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag with parchment paper between the layers to prevent sticking.
Q: Can I skip the chocolate drizzle on top? A: While the chocolate drizzle adds an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal, you can skip it if you prefer a simpler cookie.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, you can make the following substitutions:
- Brownie Mix: Use a keto-friendly brownie mix or make your own using almond flour, cocoa powder, and a low-carb sweetener.
- Sweetener: Replace powdered sugar with a powdered erythritol-based sweetener for the peanut butter filling.
- Chocolate Chips: Look for sugar-free or dark chocolate chips with a higher cocoa content to reduce the carb content.
In conclusion, Buckeye Brownie Cookies are a delightful fusion of two classic desserts, offering a perfect balance of chocolatey richness and creamy peanut butter goodness. Whether you’re enjoying them as an indulgent treat or sharing them with loved ones, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and savor every blissful bite!
