If you’re craving a delicious, no-fuss dessert that’s packed with flavor, look no further than No-Bake Buckeye Graham Crackers. This easy-to-make treat is inspired by the classic Buckeye candy, but with a fun twist. By using graham crackers as the base, these little bites offer the perfect combination of crunch, creamy peanut butter filling, and a rich chocolate coating—all without the need for baking. It’s the perfect snack or dessert for any occasion!
Whether you’re looking for something quick and satisfying for a family gathering or a fun treat to share with friends, these No-Bake Buckeye Graham Crackers are a hit. The best part? They come together in just minutes, and the ingredients are simple, making them ideal for both beginners and experienced bakers alike. The balance of flavors in this treat—salty peanut butter, sweet chocolate, and crispy graham crackers—will have you coming back for more. Plus, they’re perfect for those who want a delicious treat without having to heat up the oven.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. No-Bake Convenience
This recipe requires no baking, making it a perfect option when you’re short on time or don’t want to turn on the oven. All you need is a refrigerator to set the treats!
2. Perfect Balance of Flavors
The combination of creamy peanut butter, crunchy graham crackers, and smooth chocolate creates a flavor-packed bite that’s both sweet and savory.
3. Simple Ingredients
With just a few pantry staples like graham crackers, peanut butter, and chocolate, these treats are easy to make and require minimal prep work.
4. Kid-Friendly
Kids love these fun, bite-sized treats, and they’re easy enough for them to help make too. It’s a great recipe to make together on a rainy day.
5. Customizable
If you’re not a fan of peanut butter, you can easily swap it out for almond butter or sun butter. You can also add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an extra twist.
Ingredients
- Graham crackers
- Peanut butter
- Powdered sugar
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Vegetable shortening (or coconut oil)
Variations
- Almond Butter Buckeyes: Replace the peanut butter with almond butter for a different flavor.
- White Chocolate Buckeyes: Use white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet chocolate for a lighter-colored version.
- Add a Crunch: Mix in chopped nuts like peanuts or cashews into the peanut butter filling for extra texture.
- Vegan Buckeyes: Use a dairy-free chocolate and a plant-based peanut butter for a vegan-friendly treat.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture
In a medium-sized bowl, combine peanut butter and powdered sugar. Mix them together until smooth and well incorporated. This will create the creamy filling that goes inside the graham crackers.
Step 2: Assemble the Buckeyes
Break graham crackers into smaller pieces, about the size of a typical bite. Spoon a generous amount of the peanut butter mixture onto each graham cracker piece. Use a second graham cracker to top the peanut butter and gently press down to make a sandwich.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with vegetable shortening (or coconut oil) in 20-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted.
Step 4: Dip the Graham Cracker Sandwiches
Dip each graham cracker sandwich into the melted chocolate, covering the peanut butter filling completely. Allow the excess chocolate to drip off, then place the coated buckeyes on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 5: Chill to Set
Place the buckeyes in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate hardens and the treats are set.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the chocolate has hardened, your No-Bake Buckeye Graham Crackers are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them immediately, or store them in an airtight container in the fridge.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Smooth Peanut Butter: Use creamy peanut butter for the best texture in the filling.
- Even Coating: When dipping the graham cracker sandwiches in chocolate, be sure to coat them evenly and allow excess chocolate to drip off to avoid clumps.
- Allow Time to Chill: Don’t skip the chilling step! It helps the chocolate harden properly and gives the buckeyes the perfect texture.
- Customize the Chocolate: Feel free to use milk chocolate or even dark chocolate for a slightly different flavor profile.
How to Serve
Serve these No-Bake Buckeye Graham Crackers as a snack or dessert. They make a great addition to a party table, potluck, or a simple treat for movie night. You can also pack them into a gift box for a homemade gift idea that anyone would appreciate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover buckeyes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to one week, though they are likely to disappear much faster!
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze these treats. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. They’ll stay good for up to 2 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, simply thaw at room temperature for a few minutes.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat these No-Bake Buckeye Graham Crackers. They’re best enjoyed straight from the fridge for that cool, creamy texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer a bit more texture in your filling.
2. Can I use a different type of nut butter?
Absolutely! Almond butter or sunflower seed butter are great alternatives if you’re looking for a different flavor or need a nut-free option.
3. Do I need to refrigerate these treats?
Yes, they need to be refrigerated to allow the chocolate to harden and to keep the peanut butter filling from becoming too soft.
4. Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Yes, milk chocolate will work just as well if you prefer a sweeter flavor. The choice of chocolate depends on your personal taste.
5. How can I make these more indulgent?
For an extra indulgent touch, add a drizzle of melted caramel over the top, or sprinkle a little sea salt on the chocolate before chilling.
6. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these treats ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
7. Can I freeze these treats?
Yes, you can freeze the buckeyes for up to 2 months. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
8. How do I prevent the chocolate from getting too hard?
If you find the chocolate is too hard after chilling, you can soften it by briefly microwaving it for a few seconds to get a smoother texture.
9. What can I use instead of powdered sugar?
If you don’t have powdered sugar, you can make your own by blending granulated sugar in a food processor until fine. It may not dissolve as easily, but it will still work.
10. How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes about 12-15 buckeye graham cracker sandwiches, depending on the size you make them.
Conclusion
No-Bake Buckeye Graham Crackers are the ultimate combination of ease and indulgence. With a creamy peanut butter filling, a crunchy graham cracker base, and a rich chocolate coating, these treats are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. The fact that they’re no-bake makes them even more appealing, perfect for a quick snack or a dessert to impress your friends and family. With endless customization options and the ability to make them ahead of time, these No-Bake Buckeye Graham Crackers are a must-try for any chocolate and peanut butter lover!
PrintNo-Bake Buckeye Graham Crackers – A Sweet and Simple Treat
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings (1 ball per serving) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These No-Bake Buckeye Graham Crackers are a delicious and easy-to-make treat that combines the classic flavors of peanut butter and chocolate, all on a graham cracker base. Perfect for when you’re craving a sweet snack with minimal effort!
Ingredients
- 12 graham crackers (broken into pieces)
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for the chocolate coating)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Peanut Butter Layer:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, powdered sugar, and melted butter. Stir until smooth and well combined.
-
Assemble the Graham Cracker Base:
- Break the graham crackers into small pieces and stir them into the peanut butter mixture. Mix until the graham crackers are evenly coated.
-
Form the Buckeye Balls:
- Using your hands, roll the peanut butter and graham cracker mixture into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to set.
-
Prepare the Chocolate Coating:
- While the peanut butter balls chill, melt the chocolate chips and vegetable oil in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals, stirring each time until smooth.
-
Coat the Balls:
- Once the peanut butter balls have chilled, dip each one into the melted chocolate, leaving a small portion of the peanut butter exposed at the top (like a buckeye). Place the dipped balls back on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
-
Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the coated buckeye balls for another 30 minutes or until the chocolate hardens.
Notes
- For an extra touch, you can sprinkle some sea salt on top of the chocolate before it hardens.
- You can also try using dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert / Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American