Chocolate + peanut butter will always be one of my absolute favorite flavor combinations. It just never gets old, and I’ll never stop creating chocolate peanut butter recipes! These keto buckeye brownies are basically my idea of the perfect dessert. As a brownie lover AND a chocolate pb lover, it really just doesn’t get any better than this. These rich and fudgy low carb brownies are the ultimate treat for anyone on a keto or low carb diet—or really, anyone who loves chocolate and peanut butter. I don’t trust anyone who says they don’t love the chocolate/pb combination—it just doesn’t make sense to me!

Imagine this: a base of rich, chocolatey keto fudge brownies, topped with a thick, creamy peanut butter layer, and finished with a glossy chocolate ganache. Each bite contains the perfect ratio of brownie, peanut butter, and decadent ganache. Oh, and these brownies are only 3 net carbs and pack 6 grams of protein each. While they taste incredibly indulgent, they’re actually a guilt-free treat you’ll feel good about eating.

Whether you’re a pro keto baker or new to low-carb recipes, this buckeye brownies recipe is super easy to make. You can use your favorite keto brownie mix for a super quick option, or whip up a homemade keto brownie recipe from scratch. I’ll provide both options. Let’s get started!

The Base: Keto Brownies

Every good brownie recipe starts with the base, and for these low carb brownies, you have two options: the quick-and-easy pre-made mix route or the homemade-from-scratch route.

Option 1: FitBake Fudge Brownie Mix

For a foolproof option, I highly recommend using my FitBake fudge brownie mix. It’s available on shopfitbake.com or on Amazon, and it delivers consistently perfect results every time. One brownie made with this keto brownie mix comes out to only 80 calories and 1 net carb, making it an amazing base for this buckeye brownies recipe.

Simply prepare the brownie mix according to the package instructions. You’ll need an 8×8-inch pan for this recipe, so make sure you have one ready. Once baked, allow the brownies to cool completely before moving on to the next step.

Option 2: Homemade Keto Brownie Recipe

If you’re up for making the brownies from scratch, here’s a simple and delicious low carb brownie recipe:

• Blanched Almond Flour: Almond flour is a keto baking staple. It’s low in carbs, gluten-free, and creates a soft, slightly nutty texture perfect for brownies.
• Sugar-Free Sweetener: I use a powdered or granulated sugar-free sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit blend. It adds just the right amount of sweetness without the carbs.
• Dutch Cocoa Powder: This deep, rich cocoa powder is what makes the brownies so chocolatey and fudgy. Regular cocoa works too, but Dutch cocoa gives a more intense flavor.
• Baking Powder: Just a touch of this helps the brownies rise slightly while keeping them dense.
• Salt: Enhances the chocolate flavor and balances the sweetness.
• Butter: Melted butter adds richness and moisture to the brownies. For a dairy-free option, you can substitute with coconut oil or a dairy-free butter.
• Eggs: Eggs bind everything together and give the brownies their structure.
• Sugar Free Chocolate Chips: Folding in chocolate chips adds pockets of melty chocolate throughout the brownies.

To make the brownies, combine the dry ingredients in a bowl, stir in the melted butter and eggs, and fold in the chocolate chips. Spread the batter into an 8×8-inch pan lined with parchment paper, and bake at 350°F for 15–18 minutes. Let them cool completely before moving on to the next step.

The Creamy Peanut Butter Layer

Now, it’s time to build the iconic peanut butter layer that gives these keto peanut butter brownies their signature flavor. This layer is thick, creamy, and perfectly sweetened—just like the filling of a classic peanut butter buckeye.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Creamy Natural Peanut Butter: The star of the show! Choose a natural, unsweetened peanut butter with no added sugar. If you prefer a different nut butter, almond butter or cashew butter are great substitutes. For a more unique twist, you could even try sunflower seed butter or macadamia nut butter.
• Unsalted Butter: This adds creaminess and helps the filling set. If you’re dairy-free, you can use a dairy-free butter alternative.
• Sugar-Free Powdered Sweetener: Powdered sweetener ensures the peanut butter layer is smooth and creamy without any grittiness. It also balances the natural saltiness of the peanut butter.

To make the filling, simply beat the peanut butter, softened butter, and powdered sweetener together until smooth. Spread it evenly over the cooled brownies, and pop the pan in the refrigerator to let the layer firm up while you prepare the final step.

The Chocolate Ganache Topping

No buckeye brownies recipe is complete without a luscious layer of chocolate ganache. It’s the finishing touch that ties everything together, creating a dessert that’s as stunning as it is delicious.

For the ganache, you’ll need:

• Sugar-Free Chocolate Chips: These melt down beautifully and give the ganache a smooth, glossy finish.
• Butter: A small amount of butter makes the ganache extra creamy and shiny. Again, you can use a dairy-free butter if needed.

To make the ganache, melt the chocolate chips and butter together in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 20-second increments, stirring in between, until the mixture is fully melted and smooth.

Take the brownies out of the fridge, pour the ganache over the peanut butter layer, and spread it evenly. You can let the ganache set at room temperature or speed up the process by placing the pan back in the refrigerator.

Cutting and Serving

Once the ganache has fully set, it’s time to slice and serve your keto buckeye brownies. Use a sharp knife to cut the brownies into 16 squares. For clean cuts, I recommend wiping the knife with a damp cloth between slices.

Each brownie is a perfect balance of fudgy chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and rich ganache. Whether you enjoy them as a post-dinner dessert or a midday snack, they’re sure to satisfy your sweet tooth without kicking you out of ketosis.

Why You’ll Love These Keto Buckeye Brownies

• Low Carb: At only 3 net carbs per serving, these brownies fit perfectly into any keto or low-carb lifestyle.
• High Protein: With 6 grams of protein per brownie, they’re a satisfying treat that can double as a post-workout snack.
• Sugar Free: with no sugar added, these keto brownies are still every bit as sweet and decadent as the traditional versions!
• Gluten Free: these low carb brownies have no traditional flour, meaning they’re perfect for those who have Celiac disease or gluten intolerance. 
• Versatile: You can customize the recipe by using your favorite nut butter or making it dairy-free.
• Easy to Make: Whether you use a keto brownie mix or make them from scratch, this recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly.
• Delicious: The combination of chocolate and peanut butter is always a winner, and these brownies are no exception!

Tips for Success

1. Cool Completely: Make sure the brownies are completely cool before adding the peanut butter layer to prevent it from melting.
2. Use Parchment Paper: Lining your pan with parchment paper makes it easier to remove the brownies and ensures clean edges.
3. Storage: Store the brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just thaw before serving.

When it comes to keto desserts, these keto peanut butter brownies truly stand out as a decadent yet low-carb indulgence. Whether you’re making them for yourself, family, or a gathering, they’re guaranteed to impress even those who aren’t on a keto diet. The combination of rich, chocolatey brownie, creamy peanut butter filling, and silky chocolate ganache creates a dessert that feels indulgent without sabotaging your low-carb goals.

Beyond being delicious, these brownies are also gluten-free, making them perfect for anyone with gluten sensitivities or intolerances. By using ingredients like almond flour, sugar-free sweeteners, and natural peanut butter, you’re not only keeping the carbs low but also making a dessert that’s free from common allergens found in traditional baked goods. So, let’s talk about why these gluten-free peanut butter brownies are a must-try!

Why These Brownies are Perfect for Any Occasion

These brownies aren’t just keto-friendly and gluten-free—they’re also incredibly versatile. Here are a few reasons why they’re the ideal dessert for any occasion:

1. Great for Meal Prepping: These easy keto peanut butter brownies can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer for a quick grab-and-go dessert or snack.
2. Perfect for Special Occasions: Whether it’s a birthday party, a holiday gathering, or a casual get-together, these brownies will be a crowd-pleaser. They look fancy but are deceptively simple to make.
3. Kid-Friendly: Kids love the classic combination of chocolate and peanut butter, so this dessert is a great way to sneak a healthier option into their diet.

And let’s not forget that these brownies are super customizable! If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, you can tweak the recipe to make it work for you. For example:

• Dairy-Free Option: Use a dairy-free butter alternative for both the brownie base and the peanut butter filling.
• Nut Butter Swaps: While peanut butter is a classic choice, almond butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter can be used for a unique twist.
• Sweetener Choices: You can experiment with your favorite sugar-free sweeteners, such as allulose, erythritol, or a monk fruit blend, to adjust the sweetness level to your liking.

Storage Instructions

If you’ve made a batch of these easy keto peanut butter brownies, you’ll want to make sure they stay fresh and delicious for as long as possible. Proper storage is key to preserving the flavor and texture of these brownies.

Refrigerator Storage

Because of the peanut butter layer and chocolate ganache, these brownies are best stored in the refrigerator. Here’s how to do it:

1. Slice the Brownies: After the chocolate ganache has fully set, slice the brownies into squares.
2. Use an Airtight Container: Place the brownie squares in an airtight container, stacking them in layers. To prevent sticking, place a sheet of parchment paper between each layer.
3. Store in the Fridge: Keep the container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

The cool temperature will help the peanut butter layer and ganache stay firm while keeping the brownie base moist and fudgy.

Freezer Storage

Yes, you can freeze these gluten-free peanut butter brownies! Freezing is a fantastic way to extend their shelf life and ensure you always have a sweet treat on hand. Here’s how:

1. Pre-Freeze the Brownies: After slicing, place the brownie squares on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them for about 1–2 hours, or until they’re firm. This step prevents them from sticking together in storage.
2. Wrap Individually: Once frozen, wrap each brownie square tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
3. Store in a Freezer-Safe Container: Place the individually wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag to protect them from freezer burn.
4. Label and Freeze: Label the container or bag with the date, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Thawing Instructions

When you’re ready to enjoy your brownies, simply remove the desired number of squares from the freezer:

• For a quick thaw, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• Otherwise, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator until they reach your desired texture.

Tips for Perfect Keto Brownies Every Time

Want to make sure your easy keto peanut butter brownies turn out perfectly every time? Here are a few extra tips to keep in mind:

1. Measure Ingredients Accurately: Keto baking relies on precise measurements, so be sure to use a kitchen scale if possible, especially for almond flour and sweeteners.
2. Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the brownies while they’re in the oven. Overbaking can cause them to dry out, and you want these to stay fudgy. Remove them when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
3. Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: For the peanut butter layer, it’s best to use softened butter and peanut butter at room temperature to ensure a smooth, creamy texture.
4. Chill Between Layers: Allow each layer (the brownie base, peanut butter filling, and ganache) to set completely before moving on to the next step. This helps create distinct, clean layers.

Creative Ways to Serve Your Keto Brownies

These keto peanut butter brownies are fantastic on their own, but you can elevate them with a few fun serving ideas:

• Drizzle with Extra Peanut Butter: For an extra peanut buttery kick, drizzle some melted peanut butter on top of the ganache before slicing.
• Top with Keto Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of sugar-free whipped cream to each brownie for a decadent dessert.
• Pair with Low-Carb Ice Cream: Warm up a brownie and serve it alongside a scoop of keto-friendly vanilla or chocolate ice cream.
• Sprinkle with Chopped Nuts: Add a bit of crunch by sprinkling chopped peanuts, almonds, or pecans over the ganache layer before it sets.

Not only are these brownies rich, fudgy, and satisfying, but they also fit perfectly into a keto lifestyle. They’re low carb, high in protein, and gluten-free, making them an excellent option for anyone with dietary restrictions. Plus, they’re so easy to make—whether you use a brownie mix or make them from scratch—that they’re bound to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

With proper storage, you can make these brownies ahead of time and enjoy them whenever a craving strikes. So, what are you waiting for? Whip up a batch of these gluten-free peanut butter brownies today and experience the magic of chocolate and peanut butter in every bite!

Share Your Creations!

I hope you love these keto peanut butter brownies as much as I do! If you try this buckeye brownies recipe, please let me know how it turned out. Leave a recipe rating and comment on this post if you give the recipe a try. Don’t forget to tag me @sarahsfitfood so I can see your amazing creations!

XO,
Sarah

Looking for what to bake next? Check out my Candy Cane White Chocolate Blondies or Keto Red Velvet Brownies!

Keto Peanut Butter Brownies

@sarahsfitfood

Learn how to make the best keto peanut butter brownies! These low carb buckeye brownies are rich, fudgy, and topped with creamy peanut butter and chocolate ganache. Only 3 net carbs per serving!

5 from 2 votes

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Course Dessert, Snack

Cuisine American

Servings 16 brownies

Calories 220 kcal

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I’ll email this post to you, so you can come back to it later! -Sarah

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

Brownies:

• 1 bag FitBake fudge brownie mix prepared according to package instructions

Or, to make homemade keto brownies:

• 1 cup blanched almond flour 112g
• 1/2 cup powdered or granulated sugar-free sweetener 96g
• 1/3 cup Dutch cocoa powder 27g
• 1/4 tsp baking powder 1g
• 1/4 tsp salt 1.5g
• 6 Tbsp unsalted butter melted (84g)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup sugar-free chocolate chips 112g

Peanut Butter Filling:

• 2/3 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup sugar-free powdered sweetener

Ganache:

• 3/4 cup sugar-free chocolate chips
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

Instructions

 

• Prepare FitBake brownie mix batter and bake in a square 8×8-inch pan according to package instructions. Allow to cool.
• Or, if making the homemade option:
• Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
• Stir all dry brownie ingredients together in a bowl. Add melted butter and eggs, and stir until combined. Fold in chocolate chips.
• Spread brownie batter into pan.
• Bake for 15-18 minutes. Allow to cool.
• Combine peanut butter, powdered sweetener, and 1/4 cup of softened butter to a bowl. Beat with electric mixer until smooth.
• Spread the peanut butter mixture evenly on top of the brownies. Place in the refrigerator while you prepare the next layer.
• Combine chocolate chips and 2 tbsp of butter in a microwave safe bowl, and heat in 20 second increments until melted. Stir until smooth.
• Remove the brownies from the refrigerator, and pour and spread melted chocolate evenly over the peanut butter layer.
• Return the entire pan to the refrigerator until chocolate sets. You can also allow it to set at room temperature, it will just take a bit longer.
• Slice into 16 squares with a sharp knife.
• Enjoy!

Notes

Nutrition information calculated according to when prepared using FitBake brownie mix. 

Nutrition

Calories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 6gFat: 19gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0.3gCholesterol: 43mgSodium: 98mgPotassium: 98mgFiber: 7gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 293IUCalcium: 32mgIron: 1mg

Keyword easy keto peanut butter brownies, gluten free peanut butter brownies, keto brownie mix, keto fudge brownies, keto peanut butter brownies, low carb brownie recipe

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