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No Bake Buckeye Graham Crackers are my answer when the craving strikes and I want something sweet with almost no effort. These bars are layered with that perfect salty-sweet peanut butter, crunchy graham cracker foundation, and a hefty blanket of chocolate on top. The best part is you never have to touch the oven.
I started making these for family reunions when the oven was full of casseroles and pies. Now my friends request them for everything from picnics to late-night movie nights.
Ingredients
- Graham crackers: provide a crunchy base choose a fresh box for best texture
- Peanut butter: creamy or chunky both work make sure it is well stirred and not oily
- Butter: softened blends smoothly and helps the filling set use real butter for flavor
- Powdered sugar: sweetens and thickens the filling sift for lump free results
- Semi sweet chocolate chips: melt easily and create a glossy topping opt for a trusted chocolate brand
- Vanilla extract: adds warmth and rounds out the peanut butter use pure vanilla for best taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Tray:
- Lay out graham cracker pieces in one layer on a baking sheet or tray lining the tray with parchment makes lifting easier later
- Mix the Filling:
- Combine peanut butter softened butter and powdered sugar in a bowl Stir for at least two minutes until the mixture is thick smooth and creamy with no visible sugar streaks
- Spread the Filling:
- Spoon the peanut butter mixture onto the graham crackers Use a spatula or butter knife to create a thick even layer that covers every piece
- Melt the Chocolate:
- Place chocolate chips and a teaspoon of butter in a microwave safe bowl Heat in short bursts of about twenty seconds stirring after each until you have a glossy smooth liquid with no lumps
- Top with Chocolate:
- Quickly pour the warm chocolate over the peanut butter layer Use a spoon or off set spatula to smooth the chocolate all the way to the edges
- Chill Until Set:
- Transfer the tray to the fridge and chill for one to two hours until chocolate is firm and slices cleanly
- Cut and Serve:
- Remove from the fridge and use a sharp knife to cut into bars or squares Wipe the knife between cuts for tidy edges
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My favorite part is the first bite through the crackly chocolate and creamy peanut butter My son once tried to sneak three of these before dinner because he just cannot resist that combo
Storage Tips
To keep these bars at their best store them in an airtight container in the fridge The chocolate layer will stay snappy and the texture remains perfect for up to five days For longer storage you can freeze them but let them come to room temperature for a few minutes before eating to avoid hard peanut butter
Ingredient Substitutions
No graham crackers Use vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits in a pinch Almond butter or sunflower seed butter make great swaps for those who avoid peanuts For a dairy free version try vegan butter and allergy friendly chocolate chips
Serving Suggestions
These bars are perfection with a glass of cold milk or a mug of strong coffee I like to cut them into small squares for a sweet platter at potlucks A drizzle of white chocolate or a sprinkle of flaky salt on top makes them look even fancier
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Cultural and Historical Context
Buckeye sweets have Ohio roots named after the nut from the buckeye tree which resembles that classic peanut butter and chocolate look Here we turn them into portable easy bars rather than the traditional ball shape making them extra convenient for sharing
Recipe FAQs
- → Can crunchy peanut butter be used instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds extra texture and nutty bits to each bar, making them even more delightful.
- → How do I melt chocolate chips safely?
Melt chocolate chips in short microwave bursts, stirring between each interval, or gently in a heatproof bowl over simmering water for smooth results.
- → Can I prepare these bars ahead of time?
Yes, these bars keep well when stored chilled in an airtight container, making prep-ahead for gatherings quick and easy.
- → Is there a substitute for graham crackers?
Digestive biscuits or other similar crisp cookies can be used in place of graham crackers if needed, with great results.
- → How long do these bars need to chill?
Expect the chocolate to set in 1-2 hours in the refrigerator; letting them fully firm up ensures clean slicing and best texture.