Giant Buckeye Cookie with Peanut Butter and Chocolate Ganache Recipe

If you have a soft spot for the perfect peanut butter and chocolate combo, you are going to fall head over heels for this Giant Buckeye Cookie with Peanut Butter and Chocolate Ganache Recipe. This dessert is essentially a giant, soft chocolate cookie that’s layered with creamy peanut butter and finished off with a luscious chocolate ganache, making each bite feel like the best Buckeye candy you’ve ever known — but in cookie form. It’s nostalgic, comforting, and shockingly simple to whip up, perfect for sharing (or savoring all by yourself).

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward, familiar, and each one plays a key role in bringing this Giant Buckeye Cookie with Peanut Butter and Chocolate Ganache Recipe to life. From the rich cocoa powder that deepens the cookie base to the creamy peanut butter filling and the silky chocolate topping, every element works together to create a harmonious explosion of flavors and textures.

• 1 cup flour: The backbone of the cookie base, providing structure and a tender crumb.
• ⅓ cup cocoa powder: Adds a rich chocolate flavor that makes the cookie irresistibly deep and fudgy.
• ½ cup butter: Brings moisture and richness, making the cookie soft and melt-in-your-mouth.
• 1 egg: Acts as a binder and adds moisture for that chewy texture.
• ½ cup sugar: Sweetens the cookie just enough without overpowering the peanut butter.
• ½ tsp baking powder: Helps the cookie rise slightly, so it stays soft but not dense.
• ½ cup peanut butter: The star of the peanut butter layer, creamy and perfectly salty-sweet.
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar: Balances the peanut butter’s natural saltiness and smooths the filling.
• ½ cup chocolate chips: For a luscious ganache that melts beautifully over the top.
• 1 tbsp butter (for topping): Makes the ganache glossy and silky.

How to Make Giant Buckeye Cookie with Peanut Butter and Chocolate Ganache Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Cookie Base

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get things ready for baking this delicious treat. Begin by creaming together the butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy — this is the secret to a tender cookie. Then, mix in the egg thoroughly, making sure it’s well incorporated to give your dough the right texture.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients and Form Dough

Next, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder in a separate bowl. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, folding everything together gently until a smooth, chocolatey dough forms. The dough should feel soft and slightly thick, perfect for spreading.

Step 3: Bake the Cookie Base

Press your dough evenly into a 9-inch baking pan. Spreading it out evenly ensures even baking and helps you achieve the perfect giant cookie size. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, just until the edges set but the center remains soft – this will give you that gooey, chewy texture that’s critical for the Giant Buckeye Cookie with Peanut Butter and Chocolate Ganache Recipe.

Step 4: Prepare the Peanut Butter Layer

While the cookie is still warm, mix together the peanut butter and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Spreading this mixture immediately on top of the warm cookie helps it melt in slightly, which is pure magic when you take your first bite.

Step 5: Make the Chocolate Ganache

For the crowning touch, melt the chocolate chips with the tablespoon of butter in a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler until smooth and glossy. Drizzle or spread this luxurious ganache over the peanut butter layer, creating that irresistible shine and extra chocolatey indulgence.

Step 6: Cool and Slice

Allow the cookie to cool completely so the layers set properly. Then slice it into generous wedges and get ready to enjoy a dessert that feels like a warm hug in every bite.

How to Serve Giant Buckeye Cookie with Peanut Butter and Chocolate Ganache Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a few simple garnishes can elevate your Giant Buckeye Cookie with Peanut Butter and Chocolate Ganache Recipe to a new level. Consider sprinkling chopped roasted peanuts on top for a delightful crunch, or place mini peanut butter cups on each slice for that extra layer of fun and flavor. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also add a beautiful finishing touch.

Side Dishes

This dessert pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. If you’re looking for a beverage, a creamy cold glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee complements the rich peanut butter and chocolate perfectly, balancing out the decadence.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or special occasion, serve the Giant Buckeye Cookie with Peanut Butter and Chocolate Ganache Recipe on a wooden board or rustic platter with some fresh berries scattered around. Layering pieces in a staggered cake-style presentation adds visual appeal. You can even pop individual slices in colorful cupcake liners for easy grab-and-go treats.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Giant Buckeye Cookie with Peanut Butter and Chocolate Ganache Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will keep the peanut butter layer firm and the ganache intact without making the cookie dry, preserving that delightful soft texture.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the cookie slices in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results and enjoy just as fresh.

Reheating

To bring back a freshly-baked feel, warm a slice gently in the microwave for about 10 seconds or until soft but not hot. This quick step makes the peanut butter layer luscious again and the ganache slightly melty, mimicking that just-baked experience.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds a nice texture contrast to the smooth ganache and soft cookie, so feel free to swap it in if you enjoy a bit of crunch in every bite.

Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suited for baking. Just be sure to pick one that includes a binding agent for the best texture in your Giant Buckeye Cookie with Peanut Butter and Chocolate Ganache Recipe.

What if I don’t have a 9-inch baking pan?

No worries! You can use a similar-sized skillet or even a square baking dish. Just keep an eye on the baking time as it might vary slightly depending on the thickness of the dough.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

With some ingredient swaps like vegan butter, a flax egg, and dairy-free chocolate chips, this recipe can be made vegan-friendly. The creamy peanut butter layer already works well since peanut butter is naturally vegan.

How long will the cookie stay fresh?

For the best taste and texture, enjoy your Giant Buckeye Cookie with Peanut Butter and Chocolate Ganache Recipe within 3 to 4 days when stored in the fridge. Beyond that, the quality might start to decline, but it will still be tasty if properly stored.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with this Giant Buckeye Cookie with Peanut Butter and Chocolate Ganache Recipe. It’s that perfect blend of simple ingredients coming together to form a show-stopping dessert that feels both nostalgic and indulgent. Whether you’re baking for friends, family, or yourself (no judgment here), this cookie is guaranteed to bring smiles and second helpings.

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