No Bake Buckeye Graham Crackers

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Think of the perfect chocolate-peanut butter combo, now imagine it with a buttery graham cracker crunch and no need to turn on the oven. No Bake Buckeye Graham Crackers bring all the nostalgic joy of buckeye candies but in a quicker, bar-style format that’s incredibly satisfying to bite into. The glossy top of rich melted chocolate contrasts beautifully with the chewy peanut butter layer and crisp graham base underneath.

These bars are an ideal treat when you’re craving something sweet but don’t want to fuss with baking. With their quick assembly and chill-to-set structure, they’re perfect for last-minute guests, dessert tables, or indulgent snacking on a cozy evening. And let’s be honest—anything that gives you chocolate, peanut butter, and crunch in one go is an instant favorite.

---

What Kind of Graham Crackers Should I Use?

You can use regular honey graham crackers or even cinnamon for a spiced twist. The key is to use whole crackers or crush them finely depending on whether you want structured bars or a more layered dessert texture. For these No Bake Buckeye Graham Crackers, we crush them into fine crumbs to form a cohesive, buttery base that stays firm yet flavorful.

---

Ingredients for the No Bake Buckeye Graham Crackers

Graham Cracker Crumbs – These serve as the sturdy, slightly sweet base and give a wonderful texture to every bite.

Peanut Butter – Smooth peanut butter works best here to create a creamy layer that binds well with powdered sugar.

Powdered Sugar – Essential for sweetening and firming up the peanut butter mixture, creating that classic buckeye candy feel.

Butter – Melted butter brings everything together in the base and the filling, adding richness and binding power.

Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Melted over the top, this creates a shiny, luscious final layer that contrasts beautifully with the soft middle.

Vanilla Extract – Adds depth to the peanut butter filling and rounds out the flavor.

---

How To Make the No Bake Buckeye Graham Crackers

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Crush the graham crackers into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a ziplock bag and rolling over with a rolling pin. Mix the crumbs with melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into a parchment-lined 9×13 inch pan to form the crust. Chill this base while you make the next layer.

Step 2: Mix the Peanut Butter Layer

In a mixing bowl, blend together the peanut butter, powdered sugar, more melted butter, and vanilla extract. The mixture should be thick but spreadable. Use a spatula to evenly spread this over the chilled graham cracker base, smoothing it out into a consistent layer. Return the pan to the refrigerator.

Step 3: Melt the Chocolate Topping

In a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips until smooth and pourable. Stir frequently to avoid burning. Once melted, pour the chocolate over the peanut butter layer and spread evenly with a spatula or offset knife.

Step 4: Chill and Set

Refrigerate the entire pan for at least 2 hours or until the chocolate topping is set and firm to the touch. For cleaner cuts, allow the bars to sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before slicing into squares.

---

Serving and Storing No Bake Buckeye Graham Crackers

Once set and sliced, these bars are ready to steal the show on any dessert spread. Their neat layers and glossy tops look polished enough for parties yet comforting enough for weekday snacking. Serve them chilled for the best texture, or let them sit out for 10 minutes to soften slightly for a gooier bite.

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. If stacking, place parchment between layers to prevent sticking. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance can I make these bars?

You can make them up to 3 days in advance and keep them refrigerated until ready to serve.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?

Yes, though the texture will be less creamy. Crunchy peanut butter adds a bit of extra bite.

Do I have to use semi-sweet chocolate chips?

Not at all. You can swap in dark or milk chocolate depending on your taste preference.

What if I don’t have graham crackers?

Digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will slightly change.

Can I make these nut-free?

Try using sunflower seed butter or another nut-free alternative in place of peanut butter.

---

Want More Chocolate Peanut Butter Dessert Ideas?

You might also like the Chocolate Peanut Butter Dream Bars Recipe, which takes the same flavor pairing and adds a creamy, layered twist. Or check out the Indulgent Chocolate Chess Pie, a rich and fudgy Southern-style treat.

For a chilled option, try the No Bake Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe that also skips the oven but packs a punch of flavor. And if cookies are more your style, don’t miss the Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe for a classic, deeply satisfying bite.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your dessert boards for next time. Just click the Pin button.

If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you go for dark chocolate? Did you try a nut-free variation? Leave a comment below. I’m always curious how others twist it up.

---

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?