Buckeye Bars Recipe

Introduction

Buckeye Bars are a rich and creamy peanut butter treat topped with a smooth chocolate ganache. These no-bake bars combine the classic flavors of peanut butter and chocolate into an irresistible dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 8 tablespoons salted sweet cream butter (softened)
• 3 cups creamy peanut butter
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 12 ounce package semi sweet chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Instructions

1. Step 1: Line a 9×13 baking dish with parchment paper and set it aside.
2. Step 2: In a stand mixer or a medium mixing bowl with a handheld mixer, beat the softened butter on medium-high speed for 1 minute until smooth.
3. Step 3: Add the peanut butter and vanilla extract to the butter. Mix on medium-high speed for another minute until fully combined and smooth.
4. Step 4: Reduce the mixer speed to medium-low and gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Once all sugar is incorporated, increase speed to medium-high and mix until fully combined.
5. Step 5: Use a silicone or offset spatula to evenly spread the peanut butter mixture into the prepared baking dish.
6. Step 6: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and vegetable oil. Heat for 1 minute, stir, then continue heating in 15-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
7. Step 7: Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the peanut butter layer using a spatula. Cover and chill the dish in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes.
8. Step 8: Remove from the refrigerator and carefully slice the bars into 15 pieces, approximately 2 ½ inches by 3 inches each. Cover the bars and chill for another 1 hour and 45 minutes.
9. Step 9: Lift the bars out of the dish using the parchment paper. If needed, re-slice the bars, and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• For a crunchier texture, mix in chopped roasted peanuts into the peanut butter layer before spreading.
• Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a richer flavor.
• Make sure the butter is fully softened for easy mixing and a smooth texture.
• Line the baking dish with parchment paper edges extended for easy lifting of the bars.

Storage

Store Buckeye Bars covered in the refrigerator for up to one week. To serve, allow them to sit at room temperature for a few minutes for softer bites. These bars can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?

Natural peanut butter can be used, but it may alter the texture and flavor slightly. Since it lacks stabilizers, the mixture might be a bit softer and require extra chilling time.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, Buckeye Bars can be made a day or two ahead and kept refrigerated. They actually taste better after the flavors have melded together overnight.

Buckeye Bars Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 677 reviews

These Buckeye Bars are a rich and decadent treat featuring a creamy peanut butter layer topped with a smooth chocolate ganache. Perfectly sweet and satisfying, these no-bake bars combine classic flavors inspired by the beloved buckeye candy in an easy-to-make bar form.

• Author: Anna
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours
• Yield: 15 bars 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Peanut Butter Layer

• 8 tablespoons salted sweet cream butter, softened
• 3 cups creamy peanut butter
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

Chocolate Ganache

• 12 ounce package semi sweet chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan: Line a 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper and set it aside. This will prevent sticking and make removing the bars easier.
2. Mix Butter: Using a stand mixer or a medium mixing bowl with a handheld mixer, beat the softened butter on medium-high speed for 1 minute until smooth and creamy.
3. Add Peanut Butter and Vanilla: Incorporate the peanut butter and vanilla extract into the butter, mixing on medium-high speed for 1 minute until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. Add Powdered Sugar: Reduce the mixer speed to medium-low and gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Increase speed back to medium-high and continue mixing until fully incorporated and smooth.
5. Spread Peanut Butter Layer: Using a silicone or offset spatula, evenly spread the peanut butter mixture across the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a smooth layer.
6. Make Chocolate Ganache: Place the semi-sweet chocolate chips and vegetable oil in a small microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 1 minute, then stir. Continue microwaving in 15-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is completely smooth and melted.
7. Spread Ganache: Evenly spread the chocolate ganache over the peanut butter layer using a spatula for a smooth surface. Cover the dish and chill in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes to set the chocolate.
8. Slice and Chill: Remove from refrigerator and carefully slice the bars into 15 pieces, approximately 2 ½ inches by 3 inches each. Cover and return to the refrigerator to chill for an additional 1 hour and 45 minutes to fully set.
9. Serve: Use the parchment paper to lift the bars from the dish. If needed, carefully re-slice the bars for clean edges. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

• For best results, allow butter to soften completely at room temperature before mixing.
• You can substitute natural peanut butter, but the texture may vary slightly.
• Make sure to scrape the sides of the bowl during mixing to ensure even incorporation.
• If you don’t have parchment paper, grease the baking dish generously with butter or non-stick spray.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• For a firmer chocolate topping, use less oil or allow the ganache to chill slightly before spreading.

Keywords: buckeye bars, peanut butter bars, no bake dessert, chocolate peanut butter bars, easy dessert recipe