No-bake Peanut Butter Buckeye Bars Recipe

The Creamiest No-bake Peanut Butter Buckeye Bars Recipe Ever

Chocolate and peanut butter dance together in these irresistible no-bake peanut butter buckeye bars that melt in your mouth.

Sweet layers of creamy goodness create a dessert that’s pure bliss.

Rich peanut butter forms the perfect base for these decadent treats.

Each bite combines smooth chocolate with silky peanut butter that creates an unbeatable combination.

The recipe comes together quickly without any baking required, making these bars a stress-free dessert.

Chilled and sliced into perfect squares, these buckeye bars will become your new favorite indulgence.

Treat yourself to a little slice of heaven that’s sure to impress.

Pro Tips for Creamy Buckeye Bars

  • Line your pan with parchment paper for effortless removal and clean cutting of bars.
  • Melt chocolate chips and peanut butter slowly in short microwave intervals to avoid burning and achieve a glossy finish.
  • Adjust powdered sugar quantity based on your taste preference, using less for a less sweet version.
  • Ensure ingredients are room temperature for easier mixing and smoother consistency of the peanut butter base.
  • Keep bars refrigerated in an airtight container for up to one week, separating layers with wax paper to prevent sticking.

Buckeye Bar Variations to Try Next

  • Gluten-Free Buckeye Bars: Replace graham cracker crumbs with almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Vegan Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars: Swap butter with coconut oil, use dairy-free chocolate chips, and choose a plant-based peanut butter to create a completely vegan version.
  • Low-Sugar Option: Substitute powdered sugar with a sugar-free alternative like monk fruit sweetener or stevia to reduce overall sugar content while maintaining the classic flavor profile.
  • Nut-Free Alternative: Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter and ensure all ingredients are nut-free for those with nut allergies, while keeping the same creamy texture and rich taste.

Serving Buckeye Bars at Any Gathering

  • Chocolate Lover's Dream: Top each bar with extra chocolate drizzle or sprinkle crushed peanuts for added crunch and texture.
  • Party Perfect Plating: Arrange bars on a decorative wooden board with fresh strawberries or banana slices for elegant presentation.
  • Sweet Dessert Companion: Serve alongside cold vanilla ice cream or pair with rich espresso for a delightful after-dinner treat.
  • Gifting Delight: Package individually wrapped bars in clear cellophane with a ribbon for a homemade gift that looks professionally crafted.

Easy Storage for Buckeye Bars

  • Seal leftovers in an airtight container and keep chilled for up to 5 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
  • Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe container for maximum 3 months. Protect from freezer burn by using a double layer of wrapping.
  • Transfer frozen bars to the refrigerator and let them defrost slowly overnight. Avoid room temperature thawing to maintain texture and prevent potential bacterial growth.
  • Remove bars from the refrigerator 10-15 minutes before serving to soften slightly and enhance flavor. Enjoy at a cool room temperature for best taste experience.

FAQs

  • What are the key ingredients for Buckeye Bars?

The key ingredients are peanut butter, melted butter, powdered sugar, graham cracker crumbs, and chocolate chips.

  • Are these bars difficult to make?

No, these bars are incredibly easy and require no baking. You simply mix ingredients, layer them, and refrigerate.

  • Can I use a different type of nut butter?

Yes, you can substitute peanut butter with almond butter or cashew butter for a different flavor profile.

  • How long will these bars stay fresh?

When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, these bars will stay fresh for up to one week.

Peanut Butter Buckeye Bars for Every Occasion

  • Whip Up Quickly: No baking required, making this dessert super simple to prepare with minimal kitchen skills needed.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Classic peanut butter and chocolate combination guarantees a universally loved dessert that satisfies everyone's sweet tooth.
  • Minimal Ingredients: Uses common pantry staples like peanut butter, chocolate chips, and graham crackers, so you can likely make it without a special grocery trip.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: Can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator, perfect for stress-free entertaining or last-minute dessert cravings.

Ingredients for No-Bake Buckeye Bars

Base Ingredients:
  • Peanut Butter: A creamy, rich spread that forms the main flavor of the dessert.
  • Butter: Provides richness and helps bind the ingredients together.
  • Powdered Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a smooth, firm texture.
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: Gives structure and a subtle graham cracker flavor to the base.
Chocolate Topping:
  • Chocolate Chips: Creates a smooth, rich chocolate layer on top of the bars.
  • Peanut Butter: Helps melt the chocolate and adds extra peanut flavor to the topping.
Optional Garnish:
  • Parchment Paper: Helps with easy removal and clean cutting of the bars.

Buckeye Bar Instructions, Step by Step

Step 1: Whip Up the Creamy Peanut Butter Base

Grab a spacious mixing bowl and combine the smooth peanut butter, melted butter, powdered sugar, and crushed graham crackers.

Mix everything thoroughly until the ingredients blend into a consistent, velvety mixture that holds together perfectly.

Step 2: Create the Perfect Peanut Butter Layer

Transfer the mixture into a parchment paper-lined 8×8-inch pan.

Use your hands or a spatula to press the mixture evenly across the bottom, creating a smooth and compact base that will serve as the foundation for your delicious treat.

Step 3: Craft the Luxurious Chocolate Topping

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips together with additional peanut butter.

Stir the mixture carefully and consistently until it transforms into a silky, glossy chocolate sauce with no lumps.

Step 4: Drizzle and Spread the Chocolate Layer

Gently pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter base.

Use a spatula to spread the chocolate evenly, ensuring complete coverage of the bottom layer and creating a beautiful, uniform surface.

Step 5: Chill and Set the Buckeye Bars

Place the pan in the refrigerator and let the bars set for a minimum of 2 hours.

The cooling process will help the layers firm up and create a delectable, slice-able dessert.

Step 6: Slice and Serve the Decadent Treats

Once fully chilled and firm, remove the bars from the refrigerator.

Lift the parchment paper to easily remove the entire dessert, then slice into perfect squares and serve immediately.

Print
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No-bake Peanut Butter Buckeye Bars Recipe

No-bake Peanut Butter Buckeye Bars Recipe


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4.6 from 14 reviews

  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Sweet chocolate and creamy peanut butter combine in classic Buckeye bars, creating a heavenly no-bake dessert that whispers Ohio’s culinary charm. Chocolate-drizzled and silky smooth, these bars deliver pure indulgence with minimal effort, promising delightful satisfaction in every single bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups chocolate chips
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs

Binding Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cups powdered sugar

Topping Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup peanut butter (for chocolate layer)

Instructions

  1. Combine peanut butter, melted butter, powdered sugar, and graham cracker crumbs in a mixing bowl, stirring until the mixture forms a cohesive, smooth texture.
  2. Transfer the mixture into a parchment-lined 8×8-inch pan, using a spatula or your hands to create an even, compact layer across the bottom of the pan.
  3. Prepare the chocolate topping by microwaving chocolate chips with additional peanut butter in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until the mixture becomes completely smooth and glossy.
  4. Carefully pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter base, using a spatula to spread it evenly and create a uniform chocolate layer that covers the entire surface.
  5. Place the pan in the refrigerator for approximately 2 hours, allowing the bars to set and firm up completely.
  6. Once chilled and solid, remove the bars from the refrigerator and lift the parchment paper to transfer to a cutting board.
  7. Using a sharp knife, slice the chilled dessert into square or rectangular pieces, creating clean, precise cuts.
  8. Serve the buckeye bars chilled and enjoy the rich, creamy combination of peanut butter and chocolate.

Notes

  • Customize the sweetness by adjusting powdered sugar to taste, making the bars less or more sweet depending on preference.
  • Use gluten-free graham crackers to transform this dessert into a celiac-friendly treat without compromising texture or flavor.
  • Sprinkle crushed peanuts or sea salt on top of chocolate layer for added crunch and enhanced flavor complexity.
  • Wrap individual bars in wax paper for easy portable snacks or party-friendly dessert option that travels well.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours
  • Category: Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Blending
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 283
  • Sugar: 19 g
  • Sodium: 93 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 7 g
  • Cholesterol: 15 mg
Michael Reyes

Michael Reyes

Founder & Lead Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Southwestern and Latin American cuisine
  • Developing easy single-serving recipes
  • Food styling and food photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Practical, hands-on learning in essential kitchen skills, including food safety, hygiene, knife techniques, and kitchen organization.

Michael’s love for cooking runs deep, rooted in the bold, colorful flavors of his New Mexico upbringing.
After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Santa Fe Community College, he spent years sharpening his skills in kitchens that celebrated traditional Southwestern and Latin American dishes.
He believes cooking should feel approachable and fun, never complicated. When he’s not stirring up new recipe ideas, Michael’s out hiking scenic trails, chatting with farmers at local markets, or chasing the perfect sunset shot for inspiration.

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