These Buckeye Brownie Cookies are the ultimate treat for peanut butter and chocolate lovers! With a rich, fudgy brownie base, a creamy peanut butter filling, and a smooth chocolate topping, these cookies are a decadent bite of heaven.
Ingredients:
Brownie Base:
- 1 box fudge brownie mix (19.5 ounce, family size)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 egg
Peanut Butter Filling:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
Chocolate Topping:
- 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
Preheat and Prep:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper for easy removal.
Make Cookie Dough:
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the fudge brownie mix, vanilla extract, cornstarch, melted butter, softened cream cheese, and egg.
- Use a hand mixer on low speed until well blended. The dough will be slightly sticky.
- If the dough is too sticky to handle, refrigerate it for about 10 minutes to firm it up slightly.
Shape and Bake:
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough onto the prepared cookie sheet. Shape the dough into neat, round shapes, smoothing the edges as necessary.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 12 minutes. The cookies should be set but still soft. Remove from the oven and let them rest for a minute or two.
Prepare Peanut Butter Filling:
- While the cookies are baking, mix together the powdered sugar and creamy peanut butter in a medium-sized bowl until smooth.
- Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, one for each cookie.
Assemble Cookies:
- Once the cookies are slightly cooled but still warm, gently press a peanut butter ball into the center of each cookie. The heat from the cookies will soften the peanut butter balls slightly, making them easier to adhere.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the pan for about 5 more minutes, then transfer them to a wire cooling rack.
Add Chocolate Topping:
- Place the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
- Spoon about 1/2 tablespoon of melted chocolate over each peanut butter ball, covering it completely.
- Let the chocolate set completely, either at room temperature or in the refrigerator if you’re in a hurry.
Storage:
- Store the Buckeye Brownie Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks or freeze them for a few months.
These cookies are a delicious twist on a classic treat and are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth! Enjoy!