Description: These Buckeye Bars are a delightful twist on the classic peanut butter and chocolate treat. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or satisfying your sweet tooth, these bars feature a creamy peanut butter layer topped with a rich chocolate ganache, all set in a convenient bar form. They are easy to make and even easier to devour!
Ingredients:
Peanut Butter Bars:
- 8 tablespoons (1 stick) salted sweet cream butter, softened
- 3 cups creamy peanut butter
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 4 cups powdered sugar
Chocolate Ganache:
- 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish: Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring the paper extends over the sides to easily lift the bars out later. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Set the prepared dish aside.
Step 2: Cream the Butter: In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or using a medium-sized mixing bowl and a handheld mixer), beat the softened butter on medium-high speed for 1 minute until smooth and creamy. This ensures the butter is well incorporated, resulting in a smoother peanut butter layer.
Step 3: Add Peanut Butter and Vanilla: Add the creamy peanut butter and pure vanilla extract to the butter. Continue mixing on medium speed for another minute until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This step infuses the peanut butter flavor and enhances the overall taste.
Step 4: Incorporate Powdered Sugar: Reduce the mixer speed to medium-low and gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time. Mix well after each addition to ensure the sugar is fully incorporated and to prevent a powdery mess. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and continue mixing until the mixture is completely combined and smooth. The mixture will be thick.
Step 5: Press into Baking Dish: Using a silicone spatula or an offset spatula, evenly spread the peanut butter mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. For a smooth and even surface, you can use a piece of wax paper or plastic wrap to gently press down on the mixture.
Step 6: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache: In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and vegetable oil. Heat in the microwave for 1 minute. Remove and stir. If the chocolate is not completely melted, continue to heat in 15-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the mixture is completely smooth and glossy.
Step 7: Spread Ganache: Using a silicone spatula or an offset spatula, evenly spread the melted chocolate ganache over the peanut butter layer. Ensure the entire peanut butter layer is covered to create a beautiful and delicious chocolate topping.
Step 8: Initial Chill: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or foil and chill in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes. This short chill helps the chocolate ganache set slightly, making it easier to slice the bars neatly.
Step 9: Slice the Bars: Remove the baking dish from the refrigerator. Carefully slice the buckeye bars into 15 (2½-inch x 3-inch) pieces. Slicing at this stage, when the chocolate is partially set, helps prevent cracking.
Step 10: Final Chill: Cover the baking dish again and return the bars to the refrigerator to continue chilling for an additional 1 hour and 45 minutes (or longer). This final chill allows the bars to firm up completely, making them easier to handle and serve.
Step 11: Serve: Remove the bars from the dish by lifting the parchment paper overhang. You may need to carefully re-slice the bars along the previous cuts to separate them cleanly.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
These Buckeye Bars are a crowd-pleaser for several reasons:
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, these bars are easy to whip up, even for novice bakers.
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The classic pairing of peanut butter and chocolate is always a winner, and these bars deliver that perfect balance of sweet and salty.
- Perfect for Sharing: Cut into bars, they are ideal for serving at parties, potlucks, or as a sweet treat to share with friends and family.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: These bars can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making them a convenient option for busy schedules.
- No-Bake: No need to turn on your oven! These bars are a no-bake treat, perfect for warmer months or when you want a quick and easy dessert.
- Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate (milk, dark, or white) or add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an extra flavor boost.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.
- Cut into smaller squares for bite-sized treats.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of sea salt for a salty-sweet contrast.
- Pair with a glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Include them in a dessert platter with other sweet treats.
- Wrap individually for party favors or gifts.
Tips:
- Use softened butter for a smooth and creamy peanut butter layer.
- Microwave the chocolate in short intervals to prevent burning.
- Slice the bars after the initial chill to prevent the chocolate from cracking.
- Use parchment paper to line the baking dish for easy removal.
- Store the bars in the refrigerator to maintain their shape and texture.
- For an extra touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the bars before the final chill.
- If the peanut butter mixture is too dry, add a tablespoon of milk or cream to moisten it.
- If the chocolate ganache is too thick, add a teaspoon of vegetable oil to thin it.
- For a richer flavor, use dark chocolate chips for the ganache.
- Add chopped nuts (such as peanuts or pecans) to the peanut butter layer for extra crunch.
Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 5 minutes Total Time: 2 hours (includes chilling time)
Nutritional Information: (per serving, approximate) Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
Conclusion:
Buckeye Bars are a delightful and easy-to-make treat that combines the classic flavors of peanut butter and chocolate in a convenient bar form. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dessert for a party or a sweet treat to satisfy your cravings, these bars are sure to be a hit. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up a batch of these delicious bars in no time. So go ahead, indulge in the irresistible combination of peanut butter and chocolate with these Buckeye Bars!
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe? While you can use natural peanut butter, be aware that it may result in a slightly different texture. Natural peanut butter tends to be runnier than processed peanut butter, so the peanut butter layer may be softer and less firm. If using natural peanut butter, you may need to add a bit more powdered sugar to achieve the desired consistency.
- Can I use different types of chocolate for the ganache? Yes, you can definitely experiment with different types of chocolate for the ganache. Milk chocolate will create a sweeter ganache, while dark chocolate will provide a richer, more intense flavor. White chocolate is another option for a unique twist. Adjust the amount of vegetable oil as needed to achieve a smooth, pourable consistency.
- How long can I store these Buckeye Bars? These Buckeye Bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The cool temperature will help maintain their shape and texture. If you plan to store them for longer, you can freeze them for up to a month. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Can I make these bars without a mixer? Yes, you can make these bars without a mixer, although it may require a bit more elbow grease. Use a sturdy spoon or spatula to cream the butter and incorporate the peanut butter and vanilla. Be sure to mix the powdered sugar in gradually and thoroughly to avoid lumps. The mixture may be a bit denser, but the bars will still be delicious.
- Can I add anything else to these bars for extra flavor or texture? Absolutely! There are many ways to customize these Buckeye Bars. You can add chopped nuts (such as peanuts, pecans, or walnuts) to the peanut butter layer for extra crunch. You can also sprinkle sea salt on top of the chocolate ganache for a salty-sweet contrast. For a more decadent treat, drizzle melted white chocolate over the bars before the final chill. Get creative and experiment with your favorite flavors and textures!
