Why Make This Recipe
Buckeye Bars are a delicious treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and peanut butter. They’re easy to make and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a party, a bake sale, or just a sweet snack at home. These bars offer a delightful bite of nostalgia while satisfying your sweet tooth with every square.
How to Make Buckeye Bars
Ingredients:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil (optional, for melting chocolate)
Directions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter and softened butter until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Stir in the graham cracker crumbs until well combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into a lined 9×9-inch baking pan.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using). Heat in 30-second increments, stirring in between, until melted and smooth.
- Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer in the pan and spread evenly.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until set.
- Cut into bars and serve.
How to Serve Buckeye Bars
You can serve Buckeye Bars as a delightful dessert at the end of a meal, or pack them as a sweet treat for lunchboxes. Pair them with a glass of milk or coffee for an extra special dessert experience. They can also be enjoyed as a snack anytime you need something sweet!
How to Store Buckeye Bars
To keep your Buckeye Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.
Tips to Make Buckeye Bars
- Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
- Use a sturdy spatula to press the mixture into the baking pan; this helps create an even layer.
- If the chocolate is not melting smoothly, add a small amount of extra coconut oil to help.
- For a thicker chocolate layer, you can increase the amount of chocolate chips to 2 cups.
Variation
You can add chopped nuts, like peanuts or pecans, to the peanut butter layer for added crunch. Alternatively, drizzle caramel sauce on top of the chocolate for a different flavor twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
2. What can I use if I don’t have graham cracker crumbs?
You can substitute with digestive biscuits or even ground oats for a different flavor.
3. Is it necessary to chill the bars?
Yes, chilling helps the chocolate set and makes the bars easier to cut and serve.
Buckeye Bars
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs You can substitute with digestive biscuits or ground oats.
Topping
- 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips For a thicker chocolate layer, increase to 2 cups.
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil Optional, for melting chocolate.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter and softened butter until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Stir in the graham cracker crumbs until well combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into a lined 9×9-inch baking pan.
Topping
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using). Heat in 30-second increments, stirring in between, until melted and smooth.
- Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer in the pan and spread evenly.
Chilling
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until set.
- Cut into bars and serve.