Crunchy buckeye bars feature creamy peanut butter with Rice Krispie crunch topped with a delicious layer of chocolate. They are a great way to make the favorite candy in a fraction of the time. You should make a batch this holiday season!
In a large mixing bowl, cream the 16 ounces creamy peanut butter and ½ cup butter until it is creamy and lump free.
Add the 1 pinch salt, 3 cups powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Stir until combined. The mixture may look dry at first, but should come together.
Add the 2½ cups Rice Krispies and stir until combined.
If desired, line a 9x13-inch pan with wax paper or parchment paper. This is not required, but does make lifting the bars out to cut nice pieces easier later.
Press the peanut butter mixture into an even layer over the bottom of the pan.
In a medium bowl, melt together the chocolate chips and butter. I like to do 30 second bursts in the microwave, stirring after each one. As soon as it stirs smooth, spread it over the peanut butter layer.
Allow to set completely before trying to remove from the pan. You can stick the bars in the fridge for 30 minutes to ensure they are fully set.
Cut into bars of your desired size and serve.
Notes
For thicker bars, either double the recipe or use a 8 or 9-inch pan in place of the 9x13-inch. I find it is easier to cut through the chocolate if I have let the bars sit at room temperature for a few minutes before cutting them. Alternatively, run your knife under hot water than wipe it dry and use the warm knife to cut through the bars.If you are going to enjoy the buckeye bars within a few days, they can be stored at room temperature. Put them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a month. For longer storage, you can put them in a freezer bag or airtight container and freeze them for up to 3 months