Easy No-Bake Buckeye Graham Treats

Indulge in the delightful combination of chocolate and peanut butter with these Easy No-Bake Buckeye Graham Treats! Inspired by the classic Buckeye candy, this recipe offers a fun and simple way to enjoy those rich flavors without any baking required.

With a creamy peanut butter filling pressed onto graham crackers, all coated in smooth chocolate, these treats are perfect for parties, picnics, or satisfying your sweet tooth at home. Easy to prepare and utterly delicious, they’re sure to become a favorite for both kids and adults alike!

Easy No-Bake Buckeye Graham Treats

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter

1/2 cup butter, softened

2 1/2 cups powdered sugar

12 graham crackers (approximately 1 1/2 sleeves or half a regular-sized box)

3 cups semisweet chocolate chips

2 tablespoons shortening or coconut oil

For the Peanut Butter Drizzle:

1/2 cup peanut butter chips

1 teaspoon shortening or coconut oil

Instructions

Prepare the Pans:

Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and place wire racks on top.
Mix the Base:

In a large bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and softened butter until smooth and well-blended.

Add the Sugar:

Gradually mix in the powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Form the Treats:

Shape the mixture into balls and press them onto half of each graham cracker, spreading evenly to the edges.

Melt the Chocolate:

In a saucepan over low to medium heat, melt the semisweet chocolate chips and shortening until fully melted and smooth. Let it cool slightly.

Coat the Graham Crackers:

Dip the peanut butter-covered side of the graham crackers into the melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off, then place them on the wire rack.

Make the Drizzle:

In a small bowl, melt the peanut butter chips and shortening together, then drizzle it over the chocolate-coated graham crackers.

Set and Enjoy:

Allow the chocolate to set at room temperature for 2-3 hours, or refrigerate to speed up the process.

Notes:

Peanut Butter Variety: For best results, use creamy peanut butter. Natural or chunky peanut butter can alter the texture and make it harder to shape.

Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is softened but not melted for easier mixing with the peanut butter.

Powdered Sugar: Sifting the powdered sugar before adding it to the mixture can help prevent clumps and ensure a smoother filling.

Graham Crackers: You can use regular graham crackers or flavored ones (like honey or chocolate) for added taste.

Chocolate Melting: When melting chocolate, do so gently to avoid burning. Stir frequently and consider using a double boiler or microwave in short intervals.

Drizzle Consistency: Adjust the amount of shortening or coconut oil when melting the peanut butter chips for the drizzle to achieve your desired consistency.

Storage: These treats can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Refrigerating can help maintain their firmness.

Customization: Feel free to add toppings like crushed nuts, sprinkles, or sea salt on top of the chocolate for extra flavor and texture.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 12 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy peanut butter?

Yes, but keep in mind that natural peanut butter can be runnier and may affect the texture of the treats.

If you choose to use it, you might need to adjust the amount of powdered sugar to achieve a thicker consistency.

How should I store these treats?

Store the Buckeye Graham Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Refrigerating will help keep them firmer.

Can I freeze these treats?

Yes! You can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper in an airtight container to prevent sticking.

Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

What can I use instead of shortening or coconut oil?

You can use vegetable oil or butter as alternatives, but the texture may differ slightly.

Shortening and coconut oil help the chocolate coating set better.

How can I make these treats look more decorative?

You can add toppings like crushed nuts, sprinkles, or a drizzle of white chocolate on top for a decorative touch.

Using different flavored graham crackers can also add visual appeal!

What if my peanut butter mixture is too sticky?

If the mixture is too sticky to handle, you can chill it in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes.

This will help firm it up and make it easier to shape into balls and spread on the graham crackers.

How do I ensure the chocolate coating is smooth?

Make sure to melt the chocolate slowly and stir frequently.

If you notice it thickening too much, you can add a little more shortening or coconut oil to achieve a smoother consistency.

Can I use different types of chocolate?

Absolutely! You can substitute semisweet chocolate chips with milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate for a different flavor profile.

Is there a way to make these treats healthier?

Yes! You can reduce the amount of powdered sugar, use natural peanut butter, or substitute some of the chocolate with dark chocolate.

Additionally, using whole-grain graham crackers can add some fiber.

What if I don’t have graham crackers?

If you don’t have graham crackers, you can use any type of cookie or biscuit as a base, such as digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even shortbread cookies.

Just adjust the size as needed!