Buckeye Bars are the perfect dessert for anyone who loves the irresistible combination of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate. These easy-to-make bars are inspired by the famous Buckeye candy, a treat made from peanut butter and chocolate. With a smooth peanut butter base topped with a layer of semisweet chocolate, these bars are as decadent as they are simple to prepare. Whether for a party, holiday, or a sweet craving, Buckeye Bars are a crowd-pleasing favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 2 cups creamy peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
Directions
- Mix the Peanut Butter Base: In a large bowl, combine the softened butter, creamy peanut butter, and vanilla extract. Mix together until smooth and well-combined.
- Incorporate the Powdered Sugar: Gradually mix in the powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Press into the Pan: Press the peanut butter mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch pan, ensuring it’s spread into an even layer.
- Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semisweet chocolate chips in the microwave. Stir every 30 seconds to ensure the chocolate melts evenly and becomes smooth.
- Top the Peanut Butter Layer: Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the peanut butter layer.
- Chill and Set: Refrigerate the bars until the chocolate is set, about 2 hours. Once set, cut into bars.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 24 bars
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
Variations
- Use Milk Chocolate: For a sweeter flavor, swap semisweet chocolate chips for milk chocolate chips.
- Add Chopped Peanuts: For some extra crunch, sprinkle chopped peanuts on top of the melted chocolate before chilling.
- Make Them Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so no adjustments are needed for a gluten-free treat.
- Add a Touch of Sea Salt: Sprinkle a little sea salt over the chocolate layer before it sets for a sweet and salty contrast.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store Buckeye Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you need to keep them for longer, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks.
- Reheating: There’s no need to reheat these bars, as they are best enjoyed chilled. If desired, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before serving.
10 FAQs
- Can I use crunchy peanut butter? Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter for a bit of extra texture in the base.
- Can I make Buckeye Bars in advance? Yes, Buckeye Bars can be made ahead of time. They actually taste better after chilling in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight.
- Can I use dark chocolate instead of semisweet? Absolutely! Dark chocolate will provide a richer flavor if you prefer a more intense chocolate taste.
- How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking when I cut the bars? Make sure the chocolate layer is fully set before cutting, and use a sharp knife to cut through the bars smoothly.
- Can I freeze Buckeye Bars? Yes, you can freeze these bars for up to 2 months. Store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for the best results.
- Can I add more sugar to the peanut butter mixture? You can add a bit more powdered sugar if you prefer a sweeter peanut butter base, but the current ratio is typically perfect for balancing the chocolate layer.
- Can I make these bars without vanilla extract? If you don’t have vanilla extract, you can omit it, though it does enhance the overall flavor of the peanut butter mixture.
- What should I do if the chocolate layer doesn’t set properly? If the chocolate doesn’t set, return the bars to the refrigerator and allow more time for the chocolate to firm up.
- Can I make these bars in a different-sized pan? You can adjust the size of the pan, but make sure to adjust the thickness of the layers accordingly. For a thicker layer, use a smaller pan.
- Are Buckeye Bars suitable for special diets? They are not suitable for vegan or dairy-free diets, but you can experiment with dairy-free substitutes for butter and chocolate if needed.
Conclusion
Buckeye Bars are a perfect blend of creamy peanut butter and smooth chocolate, creating a dessert that is both indulgent and simple to make. Whether you’re making them for a holiday, a party, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, these bars are sure to be a hit. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, they provide maximum flavor with very little effort. Enjoy them as a delightful treat any time you want a taste of something rich and satisfying!
PrintBuckeye Bars: A Peanut Butter and Chocolate Delight
- Total Time: 2 hours (including chilling)
- Yield: 24 bars 1x
Description
Indulge in the rich combination of creamy peanut butter and smooth chocolate with these delicious Buckeye Bars. A no-bake treat that’s perfect for any occasion, easy to make, and guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth!
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 2 cups creamy peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together the butter, peanut butter, and vanilla until smooth.
- Gradually mix in the powdered sugar until well combined.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch pan.
- Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally until smooth.
- Spread the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer.
- Chill in the refrigerator until set, then cut into bars.
Notes
- For extra crunch, you can add chopped peanuts on top of the chocolate layer before refrigerating.
- Make sure the chocolate is completely melted before spreading to avoid any lumps.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes