Buckeye Bars Recipe: A Decadent Delight of Peanut Butter and Chocolate

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Butter Layer

1. Melt the Butter: In a medium-sized microwave-safe bowl, melt the 8 tbsp of butter in the microwave. Start with 30-second intervals, stirring each time, until fully melted.
2. Mix the Peanut Butter: Add the 3 cups of creamy peanut butter to the melted butter. Stir until well combined and smooth.
3. Add the Sugar: Gradually sift in the 4 cups of powdered sugar. Stir it in a little at a time, ensuring it incorporates fully with the peanut butter mixture.
4. Vanilla Extract: Add the 2 tsp of pure vanilla extract to the peanut butter mixture and mix thoroughly.
5. Shape the Peanut Butter Layer: Line an 8×8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Pour the peanut butter mixture into the pan and press it down into an even layer. You can use the back of a spoon or your hands to make it as smooth as possible.

Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache Layer

1. Melt the Chocolate: In a heatproof bowl, place the 12 oz package of chocolate chips. Heat the chocolate in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until fully melted and smooth.
2. Add Oil for Smoothness: Once the chocolate is melted, stir in 2 tbsp of vegetable oil. This will help the ganache become glossy and spread more easily on top of the peanut butter layer.

Step 3: Assemble the Bars

1. Pour the Ganache: Pour the melted chocolate ganache over the peanut butter layer, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Ensure the chocolate covers the entire surface, creating a beautiful, glossy top layer.
2. Chill: Refrigerate the bars for at least 1-2 hours, or until the chocolate has set and the bars are firm.
3. Slice and Serve: Once set, remove the pan from the refrigerator. Lift the bars out using the edges of the parchment paper. Cut into squares or rectangles as desired. Enjoy!