Name: Buckeye Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: PT-483833H6M13S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Bars:; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter (plus extra for drizzling); 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; For the Chocolate Drizzle:; 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips; 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter

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If you love the combination of chocolate and peanut butter (and honestly, who doesn’t?), then these Buckeye Bars are about to become your new favorite treat. Imagine a rich, creamy peanut butter center, perfectly balanced with a layer of smooth chocolate on top. It’s like the beloved Buckeye candy, but in bar form! These little squares of heaven are perfect for sharing—or for keeping all to yourself (no judgment here). Get ready to fall in love with this easy, no-bake dessert that’s just as delicious as it is simple.

Why You’ll Love Buckeye Bars

This recipe isn’t just about the flavors—it’s about creating a treat that feels fancy, but takes no time at all. Whether you’re making them for a party, a family gathering, or just because you want something sweet, these bars will win everyone over. Here’s why they’re a must-try:

Versatile: You can cut them into small squares for bite-sized snacks or larger pieces for a more indulgent treat.

Budget-Friendly: With just a few pantry staples, you’ll have a batch of these irresistible bars that taste like they’re straight out of a bakery.

Quick and Easy: No baking required! You simply mix, layer, and refrigerate for a super simple recipe that anyone can make.

Customizable: Add in some crushed nuts for a bit of crunch, or use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate for a richer taste.

Crowd-Pleasing: Who can resist the peanut butter and chocolate combo? These bars are a hit with everyone, from kids to adults. Guaranteed to disappear fast!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these decadent Buckeye Bars:

Peanut Butter: The creamy peanut butter forms the heart of the filling, giving these bars their signature rich and nutty flavor.

Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the peanut butter layer to perfection, adding just the right amount of sweetness without being overpowering.

Butter: Adds richness and helps create a smooth texture in the peanut butter layer.

Vanilla Extract: A little vanilla enhances the flavor of the peanut butter filling, making it even more delicious.

Chocolate Chips: The chocolate coating on top is what makes these bars extra special. Use milk chocolate or dark chocolate, depending on your preference.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create these mouthwatering Buckeye Bars:

Prepare Your Equipment: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This will help your bars come out easily once they’re set.

Make the Peanut Butter Layer: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the peanut butter, powdered sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is smooth and well combined. This is the creamy peanut butter filling that will make your bars irresistible!

Press Into the Pan: Take the peanut butter mixture and press it evenly into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula or your hands to spread it into an even layer. It’s okay if it’s a little sticky—just smooth it out as best as you can.

Make the Chocolate Layer: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.

Top the Peanut Butter Layer: Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. It should completely cover the peanut butter mixture.

Chill to Set: Place the pan in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate is set and the bars are firm.

Serve and Enjoy: Once they’re chilled and set, remove the bars from the pan, cut them into squares, and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12
Calories per serving: Environ 300 kcal

(Note: The full nutrition breakdown is available in the recipe card below.)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes (réfrigération requise)
Total Time: 1 heure (incluant le temps de réfrigération)

How to Serve Buckeye Bars

These Buckeye Bars are a perfect treat on their own, but you can also serve them with:

A Cold Glass of Milk: Pair these bars with a refreshing glass of milk to balance out the sweetness.

Coffee or Tea: They also make a great pairing with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon pick-me-up.

At a Party: Cut them into smaller squares and serve them as a bite-sized treat at your next gathering.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For the smoothest peanut butter mixture, make sure your butter and peanut butter are at room temperature before mixing.

Chill Longer for Firm Bars: If you want your bars to be extra firm, let them chill in the fridge overnight for the best results.

Customize the Chocolate: Try using semi-sweet chocolate chips or a mix of milk and dark chocolate for a richer flavor.

FAQ’s

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add a bit of texture to the bars.
Can I make these with a different nut butter?
Yes! You can swap the peanut butter for almond butter or cashew butter for a unique twist.
How long can I store these bars?
These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Can I freeze Buckeye Bars?
Yes! You can freeze these bars for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.
Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Yes! You can use dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even a mix of your favorites.
How can I make the chocolate layer smoother?
Try adding a tablespoon of vegetable oil or butter to the melted chocolate to give it a silky, smooth finish.
Can I add toppings to these bars?
Yes! You can sprinkle crushed peanuts or drizzle some extra chocolate over the top for added flavor and texture.
Can I use a different pan size?
You can use a larger pan, but your bars will be thinner. Just adjust the chilling time accordingly.
What if the peanut butter layer is too sticky?
If the peanut butter mixture is too sticky to work with, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes to firm it up before pressing it into the pan.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger pan (9×13-inch works well).

Conclusion

These Buckeye Bars are the ultimate peanut butter and chocolate indulgence. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious, no-bake treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a party, packing them for a sweet snack, or enjoying them after dinner, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. Go ahead, treat yourself—you’ve earned it!

Buckeye Bars

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Author: Grace Sullivan
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 35 minutes (plus chilling time)
Yield: Approximately 16 bars 1x
Category: Dessert, Snack
Method: Baking (with a chilled assembly)
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A classic Ohio treat, Buckeye Bars capture the flavors of buckeye candy in a rich, fudgy bar form. These peanut butter and chocolate bars are delightfully sweet with a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture—perfect for satisfying your dessert cravings or serving at your next gathering.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Bars:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter (plus extra for drizzling)

2 cups powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Drizzle:

2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

1/4 cup creamy peanut butter

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Instructions

Preheat & Prepare Pan:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Make the Base:
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1 1/2 cups peanut butter until smooth. Mix in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until fully combined and creamy.
Bake the Bars:
Press the peanut butter mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.
Prepare the Drizzle:
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and 1/4 cup peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and fully melted.
Assemble:
Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the cooled peanut butter base. Use a spatula or knife to create a marbled effect if desired. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to set.

Serve:
Once set, cut into bars (approximately 16 squares) and enjoy!

Notes

For a firmer bar, allow them to chill longer before cutting.
Ensure the base is completely cool before adding the chocolate drizzle to prevent it from melting into the bars.
These bars store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.