Buckeye Bars

Buckeye Bars: A Decadent Peanut Butter and Chocolate Treat

If you love the classic combination of peanut butter and chocolate, these Buckeye Bars are about to become your new favorite dessert. Inspired by the popular Buckeye candies, these bars are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With a rich, creamy peanut butter layer topped with smooth chocolate ganache, they’re as delicious as they are indulgent. Let’s dive into this irresistible treat!

Ingredients

For the Peanut Butter Layer:

• 8 tbsp salted sweet cream butter, softened
• 3 cups creamy peanut butter
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Ganache:

• 12 oz package semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Directions

Peanut Butter Layer:

1. Prepare the Baking Dish:

• Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later. Set aside.

2. Mix the Peanut Butter Layer:

• In a stand mixer or a medium-sized mixing bowl, beat the softened butter on medium-high speed for about 1 minute until it’s smooth and creamy.
• Add the creamy peanut butter and vanilla extract, and continue mixing for another minute until the mixture is well combined.
• Lower the mixer speed to medium-low, and gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Once all the powdered sugar is incorporated, increase the speed to medium-high and mix until the peanut butter mixture is smooth and fully combined.

3. Spread the Peanut Butter Layer:

• Using a silicone spatula or an offset spatula, evenly spread the peanut butter mixture in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Make sure the layer is smooth and even.

Chocolate Ganache:

4. Make the Ganache:

• In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and vegetable oil. Microwave for 1 minute, then stir. Continue heating in 15-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.

5. Spread the Ganache:

• Pour the melted chocolate ganache over the peanut butter layer. Use a silicone spatula or offset spatula to spread it evenly across the top, making sure the entire peanut butter layer is covered.

6. Chill and Slice:

• Cover the baking dish and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to allow the chocolate to set slightly.
• Once set, remove the dish from the refrigerator and carefully slice the buckeye bars into 15 squares (approximately 2 ½ inches by 3 inches). This initial slicing will make it easier to serve later.
• Cover the dish and return the bars to the refrigerator to chill for an additional 1 hour 45 minutes. This ensures that the bars are fully set and ready to serve.

7. Serve:

• To serve, remove the bars from the baking dish using the parchment paper overhang. If necessary, carefully re-slice the bars along the pre-cut lines. Serve immediately and enjoy the delicious combination of peanut butter and chocolate!

Tips for Success

• Smooth Peanut Butter Layer: Make sure to spread the peanut butter mixture evenly in the baking dish to create a smooth base for the ganache.
• Melting Chocolate: Be patient when melting the chocolate. Heat it in short intervals and stir frequently to prevent burning.
• Chill Time: Proper chilling is key to getting clean, firm slices. Don’t rush this step!

Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Chilling Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
• Calories: 360 kcal per serving
• Servings: 15 bars

These Buckeye Bars are a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for any peanut butter and chocolate lover. Whether you’re making them for a party, a special occasion, or just to treat yourself, they’re sure to be a hit. The creamy peanut butter layer paired with the rich chocolate ganache is an irresistible combination that will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy this delightful treat!