Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you love the classic combination of peanut butter and chocolate, Buckeye Graham Crackers will instantly win you over. Inspired by traditional buckeye candies, this recipe transforms the flavors into a crunchy, sweet snack that is both nostalgic and satisfying. The base is a crisp graham cracker, layered with creamy peanut butter and topped with smooth chocolate, giving you a perfect balance of texture and taste. These little bites are excellent for holiday platters, after-school snacks, or a fun treat to share at parties. I once made them using dark chocolate instead of milk, and they had a richer, more decadent flavor that everyone loved. What makes this recipe stand out is how easy it is to prepare while still looking like a bakery-worthy dessert. With no complicated steps, Buckeye Graham Crackers bring the joy of homemade sweets without the fuss.
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Buckeye Graham Crackers – A Sweet Treat with a Peanut Butter Twist
- Total Time: 2 hrs 20 mins (including chilling)
- Yield: 24 bars
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Buckeye Graham Crackers are a no-bake sweet treat made with layers of graham crackers, creamy peanut butter filling, and a rich chocolate topping, inspired by the classic Buckeye candy.
Ingredients
- 1 sleeve graham crackers
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or shortening
Instructions
- Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Arrange a single layer of graham crackers at the bottom of the pan, breaking them to fit if necessary.
- In a mixing bowl, beat together peanut butter, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Spread half of the peanut butter mixture evenly over the graham cracker layer.
- Add another layer of graham crackers on top.
- Spread the remaining peanut butter mixture evenly over the second graham cracker layer.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips with oil in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Pour melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer and spread evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
- Cut into squares or bars before serving.
Notes
- Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
- Store bars in the refrigerator to keep them firm.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw before serving.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top of the chocolate before chilling.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Graham crackers – The sturdy base of the recipe. Their crisp texture and subtle sweetness provide the perfect foundation for peanut butter and chocolate.
Peanut butter – Creamy peanut butter works best here, giving the crackers a smooth, nutty layer that pairs perfectly with chocolate.
Butter – Softened butter is mixed with peanut butter and sugar to create a luscious, spreadable filling.
Powdered sugar – This sweetens the peanut butter mixture while helping it set into a firm yet creamy layer.
Chocolate chips – Melted chocolate chips form the glossy topping. Semi-sweet or milk chocolate both work depending on your preference.
Vegetable shortening or coconut oil – Added to the chocolate for a smoother texture and easier spreading.
Vanilla extract – Enhances the sweetness of the peanut butter layer with a subtle warmth.
Sea salt (optional) – A light sprinkle over the top balances sweetness and adds a gourmet touch.
Directions
Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lay out graham cracker squares in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap. In a medium mixing bowl, beat together the peanut butter, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy. Spread this mixture evenly over each graham cracker square, forming a thick, creamy layer.
Next, melt the chocolate chips with a small amount of vegetable shortening or coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler. Stir until smooth and glossy. Carefully spread a layer of melted chocolate over the peanut butter topping on each cracker. If desired, sprinkle a touch of sea salt on top for contrast. Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, or until the chocolate has set.
Once chilled, the Buckeye Graham Crackers are ready to be enjoyed. They can be served whole or broken into smaller bite-sized pieces for easy snacking.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 24 pieces, depending on how you cut or portion them. Preparation takes around 20 minutes, with an additional 30 minutes for chilling. In total, you will have a ready-to-eat treat in less than an hour.
Storage/reheating
Store Buckeye Graham Crackers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, keep them in the freezer for up to 2 months. Simply let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly. These are best served chilled so the chocolate stays firm.
Variations and Customizations
Dark Chocolate Version – Swap milk chocolate for dark chocolate to create a more intense, less sweet topping.
Crunchy Peanut Butter – Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture in the filling.
Nut-Free Alternative – Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or almond butter.
Holiday Sprinkle Topping – Decorate with festive sprinkles for a holiday-ready dessert.
White Chocolate Drizzle – Add a drizzle of melted white chocolate for a striking look and extra sweetness.
Mini Sandwich Style – Place another graham cracker on top to make sandwich-style treats.
Extra Layer of Crunch – Add crushed pretzels to the peanut butter layer for salty-sweet contrast.
Coconut Twist – Mix shredded coconut into the peanut butter filling for a tropical spin.
Peanut Butter Cup Inspired – Add a thin layer of caramel before spreading the chocolate for extra indulgence.
Spiced Version – Mix a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the peanut butter layer for warmth and depth.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but be sure to stir it well so the oil does not separate.
Do I need to chill them?
Yes, chilling helps the chocolate set and keeps the layers firm.
Can I melt chocolate without shortening?
Yes, but shortening makes it smoother and easier to spread.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, just use gluten-free graham crackers.
How long do they keep?
Up to 1 week in the fridge or 2 months in the freezer.
Can I use almond butter instead?
Yes, almond butter works well as a substitute.
Do they travel well?
Yes, but keep them in a cool container so the chocolate does not melt.
Can I make these ahead for a party?
Yes, prepare them a day or two in advance and keep refrigerated.
Should I use salted or unsalted butter?
Unsalted works best since you can control the salt level.
Can I skip the vanilla?
Yes, but it adds a subtle flavor boost to the peanut butter layer.
Conclusion
Buckeye Graham Crackers are a delightful way to enjoy the timeless pairing of peanut butter and chocolate with minimal effort. They offer a satisfying crunch from the graham cracker, a creamy peanut butter layer, and a rich chocolate topping that together create a balanced and addictive treat. Perfect for holidays, parties, or just a quick homemade sweet, these bars can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you keep them classic or experiment with variations like dark chocolate or crunchy peanut butter, they are guaranteed to be a hit with anyone who tries them.
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