Let’s dive into the delicious world of Buckeye Brownie Cookies, where rich chocolate meets creamy peanut butter in a match made in dessert heaven. These cookies are the perfect blend of chewy brownie and soft peanut butter filling, guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of chewy brownie cookies and creamy peanut butter filling creates a perfect texture contrast.
- Using high-quality cocoa powder ensures a deep, rich chocolate flavor.
- The recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
- These cookies are versatile and can be customized with different add-ins or toppings.
- They’re a crowd-pleaser, perfect for parties, gifts, or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Cookie scoop or spoon
Instructions
Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. This step is crucial for evenly distributing the leavening agents and salt throughout the dough.
Cream Butter and Sugars
Using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This incorporates air into the dough, leading to a lighter cookie texture.
Add Egg and Vanilla
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. The egg binds the ingredients together, while the vanilla adds a subtle depth of flavor.
Combine and Scoop
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing until just combined. Use a cookie scoop to form dough balls, placing them on the prepared baking sheet. This ensures uniform cookies that bake evenly.
Make Peanut Butter Filling
Mix the peanut butter and powdered sugar until smooth. Roll into small balls and press into the center of each cookie dough ball. The peanut butter filling adds a creamy contrast to the chocolatey cookie.
Bake to Perfection
Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This step ensures the cookies are perfectly chewy.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra chocolatey experience, consider adding chocolate chips to the dough. If you’re a fan of texture, a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking can elevate the flavors. For those who prefer a nut-free version, sunflower seed butter makes a great peanut butter substitute. Always ensure your butter is properly softened to avoid dense cookies. Lastly, don’t overmix the dough to keep the cookies tender.
Recipe Variations
- Add a layer of melted chocolate on top for a double chocolate experience.
- Incorporate chopped nuts into the peanut butter filling for added crunch.
- Use white chocolate chips in the dough for a sweeter, creamier cookie.
- Swap the peanut butter filling for almond or cashew butter for a different nutty flavor.
- Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the dough to enhance the chocolate flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but the filling may be oilier. For best results, use a creamy, no-stir peanut butter to ensure the filling holds its shape.
How do I store these cookies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to 3 months.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend. Just ensure it’s a 1:1 substitute for best results.
Summary
Buckeye Brownie Cookies are the ultimate treat for chocolate and peanut butter lovers. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, they’re sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.
