Buckeye Bars Recipe
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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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