I love making these Fudgy Buckeye Bars whenever I want a rich, no-bake dessert that feels indulgent but comes together with minimal effort. The creamy peanut butter base paired with a silky chocolate topping reminds me of classic buckeye candies, but in an easy-to-slice bar form. I find them perfect for holidays, potlucks, or anytime I crave that irresistible chocolate and peanut butter combination.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how incredibly simple these bars are to prepare since there is no oven required. I just mix, press, chill, and top with melted chocolate. The texture is one of my favorite things about this recipe—the peanut butter layer is soft and creamy, while the chocolate topping sets into a smooth, firm shell.
I also appreciate how easily these bars feed a crowd. When I slice them into neat squares, they look beautiful on a dessert tray and always disappear quickly. The balance of sweet powdered sugar, rich peanut butter, and chocolate makes every bite satisfying without being complicated.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
8 tablespoons salted sweet cream butter, softened
3 cups creamy peanut butter
4 cups powdered sugar
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
12 ounces chocolate chips
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Directions
I start by lining a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving enough overhang to easily lift the bars out later.
In a large mixing bowl, I beat the softened butter and creamy peanut butter together until the mixture is completely smooth and fluffy. Then I gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed so it incorporates evenly without making a mess. Once it thickens, I stir in the vanilla extract and mix until a soft, uniform dough forms.
I press the peanut butter mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula to create an even layer. I place the pan in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 30 minutes, until firm.
For the topping, I combine the chocolate chips and vegetable oil in a microwave-safe bowl. I microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each round, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
I pour the melted chocolate over the chilled peanut butter layer and spread it evenly to the edges. Then I return the pan to the refrigerator and chill for 1 to 2 hours, or until the chocolate is completely set.
Once firm, I lift the bars out using the parchment paper overhang and slice them into squares.
Servings and timing
I prepare these bars in about 15 minutes, with an additional 5 minutes to melt the chocolate. The total time, including chilling, is approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.
This recipe makes 24 servings, and each bar contains about 320 calories.
Variations
I sometimes switch things up by using crunchy peanut butter for added texture. If I want a slightly deeper flavor, I replace part of the chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips.
For a festive touch, I occasionally sprinkle flaky sea salt on top of the melted chocolate before chilling. When I want a fun twist, I mix mini chocolate chips directly into the peanut butter layer for extra bursts of chocolate in every bite.
Storage/Reheating
I store these Fudgy Buckeye Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. I like keeping them chilled because it helps maintain their firm texture and clean slices.
If I want a slightly softer bite, I let the bars sit at room temperature for about 10 to 15 minutes before serving. Since this is a no-bake dessert, I do not need to reheat them.
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FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter?
I find that regular creamy peanut butter works best because it creates a stable, firm layer. When I use natural peanut butter, the texture can become too soft or oily unless it is very well stirred and thick.
Can I freeze Buckeye Bars?
Yes, I freeze them in a single layer until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. I thaw them in the refrigerator before serving, and they taste just as delicious.
What type of chocolate works best?
I usually use semi-sweet chocolate chips for a balanced sweetness, but I also enjoy using milk chocolate for a sweeter flavor or dark chocolate for a richer finish.
Why is my chocolate layer cracking when I cut it?
I let the bars sit at room temperature for a few minutes before slicing and use a sharp knife warmed under hot water. This helps me get clean cuts without cracking the chocolate.
Can I make these ahead of time?
I often prepare these bars a day in advance since they store beautifully in the refrigerator. In fact, I think they taste even better once fully chilled and set.
Conclusion
I love how these Fudgy Buckeye Bars deliver classic chocolate and peanut butter flavor in such an easy, no-bake form. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, I can create a dessert that looks impressive and tastes even better. Whether I am serving them at a gathering or enjoying a square with coffee, these bars always satisfy my sweet tooth.
📖 Recipe:
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Fudgy Buckeye Bars
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 24 bars
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Fudgy Buckeye Bars are a rich, no-bake dessert featuring a creamy peanut butter base topped with a smooth chocolate layer, delivering the classic chocolate and peanut butter flavor combination in easy-to-slice bar form.
Ingredients
8 tablespoons salted sweet cream butter, softened
3 cups creamy peanut butter
4 cups powdered sugar
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions
- Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and creamy peanut butter together until smooth and fluffy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar on low speed until fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract and mix until a soft, uniform dough forms.
- Press the peanut butter mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or until firm.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and vegetable oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until melted and smooth.
- Pour the melted chocolate over the chilled peanut butter layer and spread evenly to the edges.
- Refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours, or until the chocolate is fully set.
- Lift the bars out using the parchment overhang and slice into 24 squares before serving.
Notes
For added texture, substitute crunchy peanut butter for creamy.
Use dark or milk chocolate chips to adjust sweetness.
Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top before chilling for a sweet-salty finish.
Let bars sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before slicing to prevent chocolate cracking.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
