Buckeye Cookies Recipe

Buckeye cookies are a delightful fusion of rich, creamy peanut butter and velvety chocolate, reminiscent of the classic buckeye candies. These cookies are deeply rooted in American culture, particularly in Ohio, where the buckeye nut is the state tree. The combination of peanut butter and chocolate creates a taste experience that is both nostalgic and indulgent. The addition of a chewy brownie cookie base and a layer of creamy peanut butter topped with melted chocolate and flaky sea salt elevates these cookies to a new level of sophistication. Whether you’re a fan of classic desserts or looking to create something unique for special occasions, these buckeye cookies are sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• For the Peanut Butter Layer:

  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
  • 1/4 cup Dutch process cocoa powder
  • 2 teaspoons espresso powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

• For the Brownie Cookie Base:

  • 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
  • 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, spooned and leveled
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt

• For the Chocolate Topping:

• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter or all-vegetable shortening

• Flaky sea salt for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Peanut Butter Layer:

   • In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the peanut butter, softened butter, and salt until smooth.
   • Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until well combined.
   • Stir in the flour, cocoa powder, espresso powder, baking powder, and cornstarch until the mixture is smooth.

2. Prepare the Brownie Cookie Base:

   • In a large bowl, melt the butter and chocolate chips in the microwave or over a double boiler until smooth.
   • Stir in the vanilla extract and let cool slightly.
   • Beat the eggs and sugars in a stand mixer or using a hand mixer until light and fluffy.
   • Stir in the cooled chocolate mixture until well combined.
   • Add the flour mixture and fold until combined.

3. Chill the Cookie Dough:

• Chill the cookie dough in the fridge for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

4. Scoop and Bake the Cookies:

   • Scoop the dough using a cookie scoop and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
   • Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set and the centers are slightly gooey.

5. Assemble the Buckeye Cookies:

   • Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
   • Spread a tablespoon of the peanut butter mixture on top of each cooled cookie.
   • Melt the chocolate chips with the butter or shortening in the microwave in 10-second intervals, stirring between each interval until smooth.
   • Dip the top of each cookie into the melted chocolate, leaving a small border around the edges.
   • Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top of the chocolate for garnish.

6. Chill and Serve:

• Place the assembled buckeye cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to set.
• Serve chilled and enjoy!

Top Tips:

1. Use High-Quality Chocolate: For the best flavor, use high-quality chocolate chips that melt smoothly.
2. Don’t Overmix: Mix the peanut butter layer just until the ingredients are combined to avoid a tough texture.
3. Chill the Dough: Chilling the cookie dough ensures that the flavors meld together and the cookies retain their shape.
4. Adjust the Chocolate: If you prefer a thicker or thinner chocolate layer, adjust the amount of chocolate chips accordingly.
5. Freeze for Better Texture: Freezing the assembled cookies for 10 minutes before serving helps the chocolate set and the peanut butter layer firm up.
6. Experiment with Flavors: Try adding a pinch of salt or a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the peanut butter layer for added depth of flavor.

Variations:

1. Nutty Twist: Add chopped nuts like peanuts or walnuts to the peanut butter layer for added texture.
2. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the peanut butter layer for a spicy twist.
3. Fruit Infusion: Mix in some fruit jam or preserves into the peanut butter layer for a fruity twist.
4. Espresso Boost: Increase the amount of espresso powder in the peanut butter layer for a stronger coffee flavor.
5. Coconut Delight: Sprinkle shredded coconut on top of the chocolate layer for a tropical twist.

Nutritional Guide:

Additional Nutritional Notes:

• The high fat content from the peanut butter and chocolate makes these cookies rich and indulgent.
• The addition of espresso powder provides a boost of antioxidants and caffeine.
• The flaky sea salt adds a touch of savory flavor and helps balance the sweetness of the cookies.
• These cookies are best enjoyed in moderation due to their high calorie and fat content.