No Bake Buckeye Graham Crackers are a sweet and simple treat that bring together the classic flavors of peanut butter and chocolate in a fun and easy way. Imagine crunchy graham crackers topped with a creamy peanut butter layer and finished off with a smooth chocolate drizzle—no oven needed! These little bites are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without a lot of fuss.
I love making these when I want a quick dessert that everyone can enjoy, especially because they’re so straightforward and don’t require baking. It’s great to have a recipe like this on hand for last-minute gatherings or when you want a homemade snack without turning on the oven. Plus, the combination of peanut butter and chocolate is a crowd favorite that never disappoints!
My favorite way to serve these is chilled, right out of the fridge. The peanut butter gets nice and firm, and the chocolate sets just right, making each bite a perfect mix of crunchy and creamy. They’re a real hit at parties or just as a sweet pick-me-up after a long day. I’m pretty sure once you try these, you’ll keep coming back for more!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Crackers: These add a great crunch and mild sweetness that balances the peanut butter and chocolate. If you don’t have graham crackers, digestive biscuits or any crisp plain cookies work well as a substitute.
Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter is best for a smooth spread that sticks well. For a healthier option, natural peanut butter works, but it might be a bit oilier. You can also try almond or sunflower seed butter if you have allergies.
Powdered Sugar: This sweetens and thickens the peanut butter layer. You can reduce the amount slightly if you prefer less sweet treats or use a sugar substitute that measures like powdered sugar.
Chocolate Chips & Butter: Chocolate chips melt nicely and create a shiny topping with the added butter. If you want dairy-free options, use dairy-free chocolate chips and a plant-based butter alternative.
How Do You Get a Smooth, Firm Peanut Butter Layer Without It Falling Apart?
Mix the peanut butter, powdered sugar, softened butter, and vanilla well to create a thick, creamy mixture. Here’s what helps:
- Use softened butter, not melted, to keep the mixture thick and stable.
- Mix thoroughly until smooth, so it spreads easily and sticks to the crackers.
- Spread a generous, even layer on each cracker so it doesn’t crumble.
- Chill the crackers in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before adding chocolate. This firms up the peanut butter, so it holds its shape when you add the topping.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet or tray – holds your graham crackers so they stay flat while chilling.
- Parchment paper – makes cleanup easy and stops crackers from sticking.
- Mixing bowl – for blending the peanut butter filling smoothly.
- Spoon or small spatula – helps spread the peanut butter layer evenly.
- Microwave-safe bowl – perfect for melting chocolate and butter quickly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap peanut butter for almond butter for a nutty twist that’s just as creamy.
- Add a pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate for a sweet-salty combo.
- Mix mini chocolate chips into the peanut butter layer for extra texture.
- Try drizzling white chocolate instead of dark for a sweeter finish.
No Bake Buckeye Graham Crackers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base and Filling:
- 8 whole graham crackers
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Topping:
- 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 30 minutes chilling time to firm up the peanut butter layer, and an additional hour for the chocolate topping to set in the fridge. Total time is roughly 1 hour and 45 minutes, mostly hands-off chilling.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep Your Work Surface:
Line a baking sheet or large tray with parchment paper to keep things clean and prevent sticking.
2. Make the Peanut Butter Filling:
In a bowl, mix the creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, softened butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This mixture will be thick and easy to spread.
3. Assemble the Crackers:
Lay out your graham crackers on the prepared parchment paper. Spread a generous, even layer of the peanut butter mixture over each cracker, covering the surface completely.
4. Chill the Peanut Butter Layer:
Place the tray in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This step firms up the peanut butter layer so it holds its shape when you add chocolate.
5. Prepare the Chocolate Topping:
While chilling, melt the chocolate chips and 2 tablespoons of softened butter together in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 20-second bursts, stirring after each, until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted.
6. Add the Chocolate Layer:
Remove the chilled crackers from the fridge and spoon melted chocolate evenly over each one, covering the peanut butter layer.
7. Final Chill:
Return the tray to the fridge and chill for at least 1 hour, or until the chocolate topping is set and firm.
8. Serve and Store:
Once the chocolate has set, break or cut the crackers into desired serving sizes. Keep any leftovers stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
Can I Use Natural Peanut Butter Instead of Creamy Peanut Butter?
Yes, you can! Natural peanut butter works well but may be a bit oilier, so mix it thoroughly before spreading. You might also need to chill a little longer for the filling to firm up properly.
How Should I Store Leftover Buckeye Graham Crackers?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Chilling keeps the peanut butter layer firm and the chocolate topping nice and solid.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the crackers completely, then keep them chilled in the fridge. They’re great made a day ahead and actually taste better once they’ve had time to set fully.
What Can I Substitute for Graham Crackers?
If you don’t have graham crackers, try digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or any firm cookie with a mild flavor. Just make sure they’re sturdy enough to hold the peanut butter and chocolate layers.
