Description
Deliciously rich and peanut buttery Buckeye Bars featuring a creamy peanut butter base topped with a smooth, semi-sweet chocolate layer. These no-bake bars are easy to prepare, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth with a blend of creamy and chocolatey flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Peanut Butter Layer
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 3 cups creamy peanut butter
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Chocolate Topping
- 12-ounce package chocolate chips (approximately 2 cups, semi-sweet)
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Prepare Peanut Butter Layer: In a large bowl, combine softened butter, creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and pure vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture until smooth. Expect the dough to be thick and slightly crumbly but cohesive.
- Press Peanut Butter Dough: Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Transfer the peanut butter dough into the pan and press firmly and evenly to cover the entire bottom of the pan, creating a solid base for the bars.
- Melt Chocolate Topping: Place chocolate chips and 1 tablespoon of butter into a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring thoroughly between each interval, until the chocolate and butter melt together into a smooth, glossy mixture.
- Spread Chocolate over Bars: Pour the melted chocolate evenly over the peanut butter base in the pan. Use a spatula to spread it out into an even layer across the surface. Then, place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for 1 hour to set the chocolate layer.
- Slice and Chill: After chilling, carefully lift the bars out of the pan by pulling up on the parchment paper lining. Transfer to a cutting board and slice into 12 squares using a sharp knife. Return the bars to the refrigerator and chill for at least another hour before serving to ensure the layers are fully set.
Notes
- Use creamy peanut butter for the smoothest texture. Chunky peanut butter can alter the consistency.
- Ensure the butter is softened before mixing for easier blending.
- Microwave times may vary, so stir frequently when melting the chocolate to prevent burning.
- Line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal and clean cutting.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
