Buckeye Bars Recipe: A Decadent Delight of Peanut Butter and Chocolate
Introduction
Buckeye Bars are a beloved American dessert, inspired by the classic Buckeye candy from Ohio. These bars combine the rich, creamy texture of peanut butter with a decadent layer of chocolate ganache, creating the ultimate treat for dessert lovers. Their name comes from the Buckeye tree, native to Ohio, whose nuts resemble the shape of the peanut butter center in these delicious treats.
These bars are perfect for parties, family gatherings, or whenever you’re craving something sweet. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, using pantry staples to create something that tastes much more luxurious than the effort required.
Ingredients
For the Peanut Butter Layer:
- 8 tbsp salted sweet cream butter (melted)
- 3 cups creamy peanut butter (smooth, not chunky)
- 4 cups powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Ganache Layer:
- 12 oz package of chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate, depending on your preference)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for smooth ganache)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Butter Layer
- Melt the Butter: In a medium-sized microwave-safe bowl, melt the 8 tbsp of butter in the microwave. Start with 30-second intervals, stirring each time, until fully melted.
- Mix the Peanut Butter: Add the 3 cups of creamy peanut butter to the melted butter. Stir until well combined and smooth.
- Add the Sugar: Gradually sift in the 4 cups of powdered sugar. Stir it in a little at a time, ensuring it incorporates fully with the peanut butter mixture.
- Vanilla Extract: Add the 2 tsp of pure vanilla extract to the peanut butter mixture and mix thoroughly.
- Shape the Peanut Butter Layer: Line an 8×8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Pour the peanut butter mixture into the pan and press it down into an even layer. You can use the back of a spoon or your hands to make it as smooth as possible.
Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache Layer
- Melt the Chocolate: In a heatproof bowl, place the 12 oz package of chocolate chips. Heat the chocolate in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until fully melted and smooth.
- Add Oil for Smoothness: Once the chocolate is melted, stir in 2 tbsp of vegetable oil. This will help the ganache become glossy and spread more easily on top of the peanut butter layer.
Step 3: Assemble the Bars
- Pour the Ganache: Pour the melted chocolate ganache over the peanut butter layer, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Ensure the chocolate covers the entire surface, creating a beautiful, glossy top layer.
- Chill: Refrigerate the bars for at least 1-2 hours, or until the chocolate has set and the bars are firm.
- Slice and Serve: Once set, remove the pan from the refrigerator. Lift the bars out using the edges of the parchment paper. Cut into squares or rectangles as desired. Enjoy!
History and Formation
The history of Buckeye Bars dates back to the 1960s, inspired by the traditional Buckeye candy that originates in Ohio. Buckeye candies are typically made with peanut butter centers dipped in chocolate, resembling the shape of the nut of the Buckeye tree, which is the state tree of Ohio. The candy became a symbol of Ohio and is particularly popular during holidays and special occasions.
The bar version of the Buckeye was created as a more easily shareable alternative to the candy. Instead of rolling the peanut butter mixture into balls and individually dipping them in chocolate, the ingredients are layered, which makes preparation quicker and more convenient, without compromising on taste.
Conclusion
Buckeye Bars are an iconic dessert that brings together two of the best flavors in the world: peanut butter and chocolate. Their smooth, creamy texture and rich, sweet taste have made them a favorite among dessert enthusiasts. Whether you’re an Ohio native or simply someone who loves indulgent sweets, these bars are sure to become a go-to treat in your kitchen.
Perfect for any occasion—from casual family gatherings to more formal parties—Buckeye Bars are easy to make and sure to impress. The combination of sweet, salty, creamy, and chocolatey flavors in every bite will have everyone coming back for more.
For Lovers of Peanut Butter and Chocolate
If you’re a fan of the classic peanut butter and chocolate combo, Buckeye Bars should be your new go-to dessert. The bars are ideal for those who love indulgent, no-bake desserts that come together in a flash but deliver big flavor. Whether you’re a peanut butter lover or a chocolate enthusiast, these bars are the ultimate sweet indulgence.
- Peanut Butter Lovers: The peanut butter layer is rich and smooth, with a slight saltiness from the butter that balances perfectly with the sweetness of the powdered sugar. It’s a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth sensation that will satisfy your craving for all things peanut butter.
- Chocolate Lovers: The ganache topping is a glossy, decadent layer of semi-sweet or milk chocolate that adds the perfect contrast to the peanut butter base. It’s silky, smooth, and just the right amount of sweetness.
Together, the two layers create a flavor combination that’s hard to beat, making these bars the ultimate treat for anyone who loves peanut butter and chocolate in equal measure.
Enjoy your homemade Buckeye Bars—whether you’re serving them up at a party or enjoying them as a sweet treat for yourself, these bars are sure to be a hit!