Creamy peanut butter meets rich chocolate in these no-bake Buckeye Bars — a decadent twist on the classic Ohio confection, layered perfectly for an indulgent treat that’s both easy and irresistible. With just a handful of pantry staples and zero oven time, I can whip up a batch of these dreamy bars in no time, making them the ultimate sweet fix for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how these Buckeye Bars give me all the nostalgia of traditional Buckeye candies without the fuss of rolling and dipping. The peanut butter layer is smooth, sweet, and just a bit salty, while the chocolate topping adds the perfect rich finish. These bars are easy to customize, naturally gluten-free with the right crackers, and they satisfy any sweet tooth fast. Best of all, I don’t even have to turn on the oven.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 cup natural peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
1/2 cup coconut oil or butter, melted
2 cups powdered sugar
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (gluten-free if desired)
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
1 tablespoon coconut oil (for the chocolate layer)
Directions
I start by lining an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang to help me lift the bars out later.
In a large bowl, I stir together the peanut butter, melted coconut oil or butter, powdered sugar, salt, graham cracker crumbs, and vanilla until everything is completely smooth and well combined.
I press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan using my hands or the bottom of a measuring cup to create an even layer.
In a heat-safe bowl, I melt the chocolate chips with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil. I do this either in the microwave in 30-second bursts (stirring in between) or over a double boiler until it’s smooth.
I pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer and spread it evenly with a spatula.
The pan goes into the fridge for at least 1 hour, or until the bars are fully set.
Once firm, I lift the bars out using the parchment and slice them into squares.
I store any leftovers in the fridge for a firmer texture, or at room temperature if I prefer a softer bite.
Servings and timing
Servings: 16 bars
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Calories per serving: 290 kcal
Variations
I sometimes swap the graham cracker crumbs for crushed gluten-free cookies or digestive biscuits for a twist.
For a vegan version, I make sure to use dairy-free chocolate chips and plant-based butter or coconut oil.
I add a layer of chopped peanuts or flaky salt on top of the melted chocolate for a crunchy contrast.
Instead of using just peanut butter, I mix in a bit of almond butter for a more complex nutty flavor.
To make them even more indulgent, I swirl a little extra peanut butter into the top chocolate layer before it sets.
Storage/Reheating
I keep my Buckeye Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They stay firmer and are easier to slice when chilled. If I prefer a softer bite, I leave them out at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving. These bars also freeze well — I wrap them individually and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. I thaw them in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
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FAQs
How do I keep the chocolate layer from cracking when I slice the bars?
I let the bars sit at room temperature for about 5–10 minutes before slicing, and I use a sharp knife warmed slightly with hot water. This helps the chocolate cut cleanly without breaking.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?
Yes, I often use crunchy peanut butter for extra texture. It works perfectly and adds a bit of a nutty crunch to every bite.
Are these bars gluten-free?
If I use certified gluten-free graham cracker crumbs, then yes — these Buckeye Bars are naturally gluten-free.
Do I have to use coconut oil?
Not at all. I can substitute butter (regular or plant-based) for the coconut oil with no problem in both the filling and the chocolate layer.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely. I double the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan. I make sure to extend the chill time slightly so the thicker layers can set completely.
Conclusion
These Buckeye Bars are one of my favorite no-bake treats — rich, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make. Whether I’m making them for a holiday tray, a party, or just to stash in the fridge for late-night cravings, they always hit the spot. With just the right balance of peanut butter and chocolate, and endless ways to tweak them, they’re a must-have recipe in my dessert rotation.
📖 Recipe:
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Buckeye Bars
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Creamy peanut butter meets rich chocolate in these no-bake Buckeye Bars — a decadent, layered twist on the classic Ohio candy. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, they’re perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
1 cup natural peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
1/2 cup coconut oil or butter, melted
2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (gluten-free if desired)
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
1 tablespoon coconut oil (for the chocolate layer)
Instructions
- Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, combine peanut butter, melted coconut oil or butter, powdered sugar, salt, graham cracker crumbs, and vanilla. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even layer.
- Melt chocolate chips with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in a microwave (in 30-second bursts) or over a double boiler until smooth.
- Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer and spread evenly with a spatula.
- Refrigerate the pan for at least 1 hour, or until the bars are fully set.
- Remove the bars from the pan using the parchment overhang and slice into squares.
- Store bars in the refrigerator for a firmer texture or at room temperature for a softer bite.
Notes
Use certified gluten-free graham crackers to keep the recipe gluten-free.
Substitute butter for coconut oil if preferred.
For a vegan version, use dairy-free chocolate chips and plant-based butter or coconut oil.
Add chopped peanuts or flaky salt on top for extra crunch.
Swirl additional peanut butter into the chocolate layer for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
