If you are a fan of the classic chocolate and peanut butter combination, then Buckeye Brownies are a dessert you do not want to miss. These mouth-watering bars take inspiration from Ohio’s beloved buckeye candies, layering rich flavors to create an extraordinary treat.
With a fudgy brownie base, a creamy peanut butter middle, and a luscious dark chocolate ganache topping, Buckeye Brownies are perfect for any chocolate and peanut butter lover looking to indulge. Whether for casual snacking or a special occasion, these brownies deliver a delightful burst of flavors.
The Essence of Buckeye Brownies
The magic of Buckeye Brownies lies in their multi-layered composition. The bottom layer is a dense, fudgy brownie that serves as the canvas for the subsequent flavors. This brownie base is not just chocolatey; it is intensely so, thanks to the use of Dutch-processed cocoa powder, which imparts a deeper, more robust chocolate flavor.
Following the brownie base is a luscious peanut butter layer that is both creamy and slightly salty yet sweet. By whipping together room-temperature butter and peanut butter, an airy and smooth filling is created that perfectly complements the dense brownie beneath it.
Why Dutch-Processed Cocoa Powder Matters
One of the secrets to the rich chocolate flavor in the brownie base is the use of Dutch-processed cocoa powder. Unlike natural cocoa powder, Dutch-processed cocoa has been treated to neutralize its acidity, resulting in a milder, smoother taste that enhances the chocolate’s depth.
This type of cocoa powder is almost twice as fatty as natural cocoa powder, and it often comes from better quality beans. Therefore, for those seeking intense flavor and aromatic complexity in their brownies, Dutch-processed cocoa is the way to go.
Boosting Flavors with Coffee
Adding a small amount of strong coffee to the brownie batter might seem unusual, but it works wonders.
You will not taste the coffee in the finished brownies. Instead, the coffee acts to intensify the chocolate flavor while balancing out the sweetness, making the overall flavor more complex and less cloying.
The Perfect Peanut Butter Filling
Properly creaming the butter and peanut butter is crucial. Beating them together with confectioners’ sugar ensures the filling is light and airy. This creates an irresistible middle layer that, when set, provides a harmonious contrast to the dense brownie base.
This filling is best prepared with an electric mixer or stand mixer, as it helps incorporate tiny air bubbles into the mix, making it fluffy and smooth. The process might seem tedious but is worth the effort for the perfect texture.
Choosing the Right Chocolate for the Ganache
For an utterly indulgent ganache topping, opt for bittersweet chocolate with at least 70% cacao. This choice helps ensure that the ganache will not be overly sweet, which could overshadow the balanced flavors of the peanut butter and brownie layers.
Avoid using chocolate chips, which contain stabilizers that affect their melting behavior. Instead, use a high-quality chocolate bar to achieve a silky smooth ganache that sets beautifully atop the peanut butter layer.
Melt the chocolate with hot cream and a little butter to achieve a glossy and firm finish. Refrigeration is necessary to set the ganache before slicing the brownies.
Essential Refrigeration Steps
Refrigerating the assembled brownies for at least an hour is a non-negotiable step. This helps the layers firm up, making them easier to slice and ensuring clean, even squares. Without this step, the peanut butter layer can ooze out, resulting in an unappetizing mess.
Though it might be difficult to resist, letting the brownies chill overnight can make a significant difference in the overall texture and ease of serving. This advanced preparation can make serving these treats at gatherings more convenient.
Final Tips for Success
When preparing Buckeye Brownies, ensure all ingredients are at the proper temperature. Butter should be at a soft but cool room temperature to blend well and create the right consistency for the peanut butter filling.
Cutting the brownies with a sharp knife, possibly warmed slightly in hot water, can help achieve cleaner cuts. This little extra effort can elevate the presentation of these already delicious brownies.
Buckeye Brownies offer a captivating twist on the classic chocolate and peanut butter pairing, proving that this dessert need not be limited to candy form. These richly layered bars bring together the best of both worlds with a fudgy base, creamy filling, and decadent ganache.
Whether enjoyed at a party or as a personal treat, Buckeye Brownies are sure to impress anyone who appreciates the harmonious balance of chocolate and peanut butter.
Source: Seriouseats