Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you love peanut butter and chocolate, these Buckeye Bars are a must-try! The easy-to-make recipe skips the hassle of rolling balls by creating layers in a pan, making the process faster but just as delicious. They’re sweet, creamy, and indulgent, with a perfect balance of peanut butter and chocolate that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients
-
1/2 cup salted butter, softened
-
1 cup creamy peanut butter
-
2 cups powdered sugar
-
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
-
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
-
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
-
Prepare the Peanut Butter Layer: Beat the softened butter with the peanut butter and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, and mix until combined. Spread this mixture evenly in the bottom of a lined baking dish.
-
Make the Chocolate Layer: Melt the chocolate chips with vegetable oil in a microwave-safe bowl, heating for 1 minute, stirring, and then continuing to heat in 15-second intervals until smooth. Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the peanut butter layer.
-
Chill and Cut: Refrigerate the bars for 15-20 minutes. Once the chocolate has set slightly, cut the bars into 15 slices. Refrigerate again for about 1 hour and 45 minutes until fully firm.
-
Serve: Once chilled, serve the bars immediately or store for later enjoyment.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes about 15 bars.
-
Prep time: 10 minutes
-
Chill time: 2 hours
-
Total time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Variations
-
Toppings: Add extra texture by topping with crushed peanuts, chocolate sprinkles, or even chopped peanut butter cups.
-
Flavor Twist: Use milk chocolate or dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet for a different chocolate experience.
-
Crunchy Peanut Butter: For added crunch, swap creamy peanut butter for crunchy peanut butter.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover bars in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks at room temperature or in the fridge. These bars also freeze well for up to 3 months. Let them thaw before serving.
FAQs
Can I use unsalted butter?
Yes, but if using unsalted butter, you may want to add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness of the peanut butter and chocolate.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars keep well in the fridge for several days, making them perfect for preparing in advance for parties or gatherings.
Can I substitute natural peanut butter?
It’s best to use processed peanut butter for these bars as natural peanut butter can cause the mixture to be too runny due to oil separation.
How do I make the chocolate layer smooth?
Stir the chocolate and oil together carefully, heating in short intervals to prevent burning. This ensures a smooth, glossy finish.
Can I freeze Buckeye Bars?
Yes, Buckeye Bars freeze well for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container.
Conclusion
Buckeye Bars are an easy and indulgent treat that captures the irresistible combination of peanut butter and chocolate in a convenient, no-bake form. Perfect for parties, holidays, or just a sweet treat to enjoy with friends, they’re sure to be a favorite!
Buckeye Bars
These Buckeye Bars are a no-bake dessert that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate. Easy to make, naturally gluten-free, and perfect for any occasion, these bars are a crowd-pleasing treat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 15 bars
- Category: Desserts
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Salted butter
- Creamy peanut butter (processed)
- Powdered sugar
- Pure vanilla extract
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Vegetable oil
Instructions
- Beat the butter, peanut butter, and vanilla together, then add powdered sugar one cup at a time.
- Spread the peanut butter mixture in a baking dish.
- Melt chocolate chips and oil, then pour over the peanut butter layer.
- Chill for 15-20 minutes, cut into slices, then chill for an additional 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Notes
- For a cleaner cut, refrigerate the bars before slicing.
- You can add crushed nuts, chocolate sprinkles, or peanut butter cups for extra texture.