Buckeye Bars : The Ultimate No-Bake Peanut Butter-Chocolate Fix
Calling all peanut butter and chocolate lovers! These Buckeye Bars are pure dessert magic — creamy, rich, no-bake squares that taste just like Reese’s, only better. Whether you're prepping for a holiday tray, a potluck, or a late-night craving, this ridiculously easy recipe delivers maximum decadence with minimal effort.
Once you try them, there’s no going back — these bars are dangerously addictive and an absolute must-make for any dessert table.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- No-bake recipe — no oven, no fuss
- Perfect peanut butter-chocolate ratio
- Rich, creamy, and freezer-friendly
- Ideal for parties, gifts, or indulgent snacking
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9x13 inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or spatula
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Rubber spatula
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
Peanut Butter Layer:
- 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups creamy peanut butter
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 4 cups powdered sugar
Chocolate Topping:
- 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or coconut oil)
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Pan:
Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving enough overhang to lift the bars out easily later.
2️⃣ Mix the Peanut Butter Base:
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, peanut butter, and vanilla until smooth. Gradually mix in powdered sugar until a thick dough forms. Use your hands if necessary to fully incorporate everything.
3️⃣ Press Into Pan:
Firmly press the peanut butter mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan using the back of a spoon or clean hands to create an even layer.
4️⃣ Chill:
Refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour, until firm. This prevents the chocolate from sinking into the base when added.
5️⃣ Make the Chocolate Topping:
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and vegetable oil. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted.
6️⃣ Top With Chocolate:
Remove the chilled pan and pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer. Spread evenly with a spatula.
7️⃣ Chill Again:
Return to the refrigerator for 1–2 hours or until the chocolate is fully set and firm.
8️⃣ Cut & Serve:
Lift the bars out using the parchment overhang. Place on a cutting board and slice into squares or rectangles. Store leftovers in the fridge or freezer.
Tips & Variations
- For thicker bars, use an 8x8 or 9x9 pan instead of a 9x13.
- Craving crunch? Add crushed graham crackers or chopped nuts to the peanut butter base.
- Switch up the chocolate: Try dark chocolate chips or milk chocolate for different flavor profiles.
- Want them firmer? Freeze for 10–15 minutes before slicing for super clean edges.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to
Buckeye Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Line a 9x13-inch pan with parchment, leaving an overhang.
- Mix butter, peanut butter, and vanilla. Add powdered sugar and mix into a dough.
- Press dough firmly into the pan and chill for 30–60 minutes.
- Melt chocolate chips with oil in the microwave, stirring until smooth.
- Pour chocolate over the peanut butter layer and spread evenly.
- Refrigerate for 1–2 hours until set.
- Lift from pan, cut into bars, and serve.