No Bake Peanut Butter Buckeye Bars Recipe
These No Bake Peanut Butter Buckeye Bars are a delicious, easy-to-make treat combining creamy peanut butter filling with a rich chocolate topping. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack without the need for an oven, these bars feature a smooth, sweet peanut butter base and a luscious chocolate layer set at room temperature and chilled for the best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (microwaving chocolate)
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes (includes chilling time)
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Peanut Butter Base
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 2 cups creamy peanut butter
- 3 1/2 cups powdered confectioners sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Chocolate Topping
- 2 cups chocolate chips or chunks (12 ounces)
- 1 tablespoon butter or coconut oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture: Place 1/2 cup softened butter, 2 cups creamy peanut butter, 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar, and 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract into a large mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer, beat the ingredients together until the mixture is smooth but thick and slightly crumbly in texture.
- Form the Base Layer: Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Transfer the peanut butter dough into the prepared pan and press it firmly and evenly into the bottom to create an even layer.
- Melt the Chocolate Topping: Combine 2 cups of chocolate chips and 1 tablespoon of butter or coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave the mixture in 30-second increments, stirring between each, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth, which should take about 1 minute and 30 seconds in total.
- Apply the Chocolate Layer: Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter base and spread it evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon. Allow the chocolate to set at room temperature for about 30 to 60 minutes until firm.
- Chill and Slice: Using the edges of the parchment paper, carefully lift the set bars out of the pan onto a cutting board. Slice the bars into squares with a sharp knife. Place the bars in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to ensure they hold their shape and are nicely chilled.
Notes
- Use creamy peanut butter for a smooth texture; chunky peanut butter will alter the consistency.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
- Ensure the chocolate is fully melted and smooth to get an even coating over the bars.
- Let the chocolate set fully at room temperature before refrigerating to avoid cracking.
- Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Keywords: peanut butter bars, no bake dessert, buckeye bars, chocolate peanut butter bars, easy peanut butter sweets
