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Buckeye Bars Recipe

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4 from 4 reviews

Delight in these rich and creamy Buckeye Bars, combining a smooth peanut butter base with a luscious semi-sweet chocolate ganache topping. Perfectly balanced and easy to make, these bars are a crowd-pleasing treat that can be prepared ahead of time and chilled until ready to serve.

Ingredients

Peanut Butter Layer

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

Chocolate Ganache

  • 12 ounce package semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare Baking Dish: Line a 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper and set aside to prevent sticking and for easy removal of bars later.
  2. Beat Butter: Using a stand mixer or handheld mixer on medium-high speed, beat the softened butter for 1 minute until smooth and creamy.
  3. Add Peanut Butter and Vanilla: Incorporate the peanut butter and vanilla extract into the butter mixture. Continue mixing on medium-high speed for another minute until well combined and smooth.
  4. Incorporate Powdered Sugar: Reduce mixer speed to medium-low, gradually add powdered sugar one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Once all sugar is added, increase mixer speed to medium-high and mix thoroughly until fully incorporated and mixture is smooth.
  5. Spread Peanut Butter Mixture: Using a silicone or offset spatula, evenly spread the peanut butter mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating an even layer.
  6. Make Chocolate Ganache: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and vegetable oil. Microwave on high for 1 minute, then stir. Continue microwaving in 15-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
  7. Spread Ganache: Pour and evenly spread the melted chocolate ganache over the peanut butter layer using a spatula.
  8. Chill Bars: Cover the baking dish and refrigerate for 15 to 20 minutes to set the chocolate layer.
  9. Slice Bars: Remove from refrigerator and carefully slice the bars into 15 pieces, each approximately 2 ½ inches by 3 inches. Cover and return to the refrigerator.
  10. Final Chill: Let the bars chill for an additional 1 hour and 45 minutes to fully firm up before serving.
  11. Serve: Use the parchment paper to lift bars from the dish. If needed, carefully re-slice bars to separate. Serve immediately or store chilled.

Notes

  • For best results, use creamy peanut butter rather than chunky to ensure a smooth texture.
  • Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature before beating for easier mixing.
  • The chocolate ganache can also be melted gently over a double boiler instead of microwave if preferred.
  • Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh up to 5 days.
  • Allow bars to come to room temperature for a few minutes before serving if preferred less firm.