Buckeye Bliss Bars are the perfect treat for peanut butter and chocolate lovers, featuring layers of creamy peanut butter and smooth chocolate that melt in your mouth.
With just a few simple ingredients and no need for an oven, this recipe is a breeze to make and ideal for hot summer days.
Whether you’re bringing them to a potluck, holiday gathering, or bake sale, these thick, rich bars are sure to impress. Plus, they’re naturally gluten-free, making them a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to whip up anytime.
Servings: 9
Equipment
- stand mixer with paddle attachment
- 9×9-inch baking dish
- Parchment paper
- Microwave-safe bowl
- spatula
- sharp knife
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 stick butter softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups powdered sugar not packed
- 2 cups chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil optional
Instructions
- Line a 9×9-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a stand mixer, beat together the peanut butter and softened butter on medium speed until smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Mix in the vanilla extract on low speed, then gradually add the powdered sugar until fully combined and a dough forms. If the mixture is too wet, add a bit more powdered sugar.
- Transfer the peanut butter mixture into the lined baking dish. Use your fingers or the back of a spoon to press it evenly into the corners.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted and smooth.
- Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Refrigerate the bars for about 2 hours or until the chocolate is fully hardened.
- Once set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang, and cut into squares with a sharp knife.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Tips & Tricks
- Use Processed Peanut Butter: Processed peanut butter holds the mixture together better than natural peanut butter, which tends to separate due to its natural oils.
- Line with Parchment Paper: Lining your baking dish with parchment paper makes it easy to lift the bars out of the pan for cutting.
- Chill Time is Essential: Don’t skip the chill time; it ensures the bars are firm and easy to slice cleanly.
- Cutting Tips: Use a sharp or serrated knife for best results. If the bars are too firm from chilling, let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before cutting.
- Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This will keep them fresh and prevent the chocolate from getting too soft.
- Freezing: These bars can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap them individually and place them in a Ziploc bag for easy access. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Adding Crunch: Mix in Rice Krispies to the peanut butter layer or sprinkle chopped nuts or pretzels over the chocolate for added texture.
- Alternative Nut Butters: Swap peanut butter with almond butter or your favorite nut butter for a different flavor.
- Topping Options: Sprinkle with sea salt for an extra flavor boost or add mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or crushed pretzels on top of the melted chocolate before chilling.
