Introduction

No-Bake Buckeye Bars are a delicious and easy-to-make treat that combines creamy peanut butter with rich chocolate. Perfect for when you want a sweet snack without turning on the oven, these bars are sure to satisfy your cravings in no time.

Two thick square bars with four clear layers sit on white parchment paper over a white plate against a white marbled texture. The bottom layer is a rough, crumbly golden crust with bits of nuts or oats. On top of that is a smooth, shiny dark brown chocolate layer. Above that is a smooth, light caramel-colored layer. The top layer is again shiny dark chocolate, decorated with a scatter of small round nuts in light brown and creamy shades, giving a crunchy texture contrast. The background is softly blurred, focusing on the rich texture and glossy finish of the bars. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup Peanut Butter
1/2 cup Butter (softened)
2 1/2 cups Powdered Sugar
1 tsp Vanilla Extract
2 cups Chocolate Chips
Optional: 1/2 cup Graham Cracker Crumbs

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, mix together the peanut butter, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. If you like, stir in the graham cracker crumbs for added texture.
Step 2: Press the peanut butter mixture evenly into a lined 9×9-inch baking pan to form a solid layer.
Step 3: Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth. For a creamier finish, you can add a tablespoon of butter or coconut oil. Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the peanut butter layer.
Step 4: Refrigerate the bars for 1 to 2 hours, until the chocolate topping is fully set. Once firm, cut into squares and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

For a nuttier flavor, use natural peanut butter but ensure it is well stirred before measuring.
Add a pinch of salt to the peanut butter mixture to balance the sweetness.
Try using dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips for a richer chocolate layer.
If you prefer a softer chocolate top, skip adding butter or coconut oil to the melting chocolate.

Storage

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To enjoy, bring to room temperature for a few minutes before serving or enjoy chilled. These bars can also be frozen for up to one month; thaw in the fridge before cutting.

How to Serve

The image shows two square dessert bars stacked on one another on a white plate lined with light brown parchment paper, all set on a white marbled surface. Each bar has five visible layers: a bottom crust with a grainy, crumbly texture in light brown mixed with small dark bits, topped by a thick dark chocolate layer with a smooth finish, followed by a medium caramel-colored layer with a soft, creamy texture, then another thick smooth dark chocolate layer, and finally a top layer scattered with small round caramel-colored and light beige crunchy bits. The focus is on the front bar with the back bar softly blurred. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?

Yes, crunchy peanut butter works well and adds a bit of extra texture to the bars.

Do I have to use graham cracker crumbs?

No, the graham cracker crumbs are optional and can be left out if you prefer a smoother peanut butter layer.

No-Bake Buckeye Bars Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 74 reviews

No-Bake Buckeye Bars are a deliciously easy treat combining a creamy peanut butter layer with a rich chocolate topping. These bars require no baking, making them perfect for a quick and satisfying dessert or snack with a smooth, sweet, and nutty flavor that resembles the classic buckeye candy.

Author: Toney
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 16 bars 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Peanut Butter Layer

1 cup Peanut Butter
1/2 cup Butter (softened)
2 1/2 cups Powdered Sugar
1 tsp Vanilla Extract
Optional: 1/2 cup Graham Cracker Crumbs

Chocolate Topping

2 cups Chocolate Chips
Optional: 1 tbsp Butter or Coconut Oil (for smoother chocolate)

Instructions

Prepare the Peanut Butter Layer: In a large bowl, thoroughly mix together peanut butter, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined. If desired, fold in graham cracker crumbs to add some texture to the base layer.
Assemble the Bars: Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil for easy removal. Press the peanut butter mixture evenly into the pan, creating a solid and uniform layer.
Add the Chocolate Topping: Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl by heating for 30 seconds at a time, stirring in between until smooth. For a creamier chocolate topping, stir in a tablespoon of butter or coconut oil. Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the peanut butter layer.
Set and Serve: Place the assembled bars in the refrigerator and chill for 1 to 2 hours, or until the chocolate topping is fully set and firm. Once set, cut into squares and serve chilled.

Notes

You can substitute natural peanut butter if you prefer a less sweet or more natural flavor.
For a dairy-free option, use vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate chips.
Ensure the butter is softened, not melted, to achieve the best texture in the peanut butter layer.
If you prefer a firmer texture, increase refrigeration time before cutting.
Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Keywords: No-Bake Buckeye Bars, Peanut Butter Bars, Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars, Easy No-Bake Dessert, Buckeye Candy Bars