Buckeye Graham Crackers Recipe

If you’re a fan of buckeyes—those chocolate-coated peanut butter treats that taste like Reese’s cups but even better—then you’re in for a treat with these buckeye graham crackers! This recipe combines the iconic flavors of chocolate and peanut butter with the satisfying crunch of graham crackers. The best part? No baking required. Just mix, melt, and assemble, and you’ll have a deliciously decadent treat that’s perfect for parties, potlucks, or a cozy movie night at home.

I first made these buckeye graham crackers on a whim, craving something sweet but not wanting to spend hours in the kitchen. They quickly became a family favorite! There’s just something irresistible about the contrast between the creamy peanut butter filling, the rich chocolate coating, and that unexpected crunch of the graham cracker. If you’re ready for a new twist on a classic treat, grab your ingredients, and let’s dive in.

this RECIPE

A classic combo with a twist

The original buckeye candy comes from Ohio (hence the name—it’s inspired by the nut from the Ohio buckeye tree) and consists of a peanut butter filling dipped in chocolate, with a small circle of peanut butter left exposed on top to resemble the nut. This recipe simplifies the process and adds a graham cracker base, making it less fussy than rolling dozens of individual buckeye balls and dipping each one. Plus, the graham crackers add a delightful crunch that complements the creamy filling and smooth chocolate coating.

Let’s talk ingredients: peanut butter, chocolate, and a little crunch

The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need and a few tips to make sure you get the best results:

• Graham crackers: These form the base of each treat. They add structure, texture, and just a hint of sweetness. If you’re out of graham crackers, you could substitute with digestive biscuits or another crunchy cookie.
• Peanut butter: Creamy peanut butter is the star of the filling. I recommend using regular, shelf-stable peanut butter rather than the natural kind, as it holds its shape better. For a different flavor profile, you could try almond butter or sunflower seed butter, though the taste will vary.
• Butter: Butter adds richness and helps bind the filling. Make sure it’s softened so it mixes smoothly. For a dairy-free option, you could use a plant-based butter alternative.
• Powdered sugar: This sweetens and thickens the peanut butter filling, giving it a dough-like texture that holds its shape.
• Vanilla extract: Just a touch of vanilla enhances the flavor of the peanut butter mixture, making it even more irresistible.
• Chocolate chips: Semi-sweet chocolate chips give the perfect balance of sweetness to offset the rich peanut butter. You could use milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter treat, or dark chocolate if you want something a bit less sweet.
• Vegetable oil: Adding oil to the chocolate helps it melt smoothly and gives a shiny finish to the coating. Coconut oil works well as an alternative if you want a subtle coconut flavor.
• Peanut butter chips: These are melted and drizzled on top for an extra peanut butter kick. If you don’t have peanut butter chips, a sprinkle of crushed peanuts or even a drizzle of melted white chocolate could work as a fun variation.

Kitchen gear: What you’ll need to make these treats

You won’t need much in the way of fancy equipment, which is another reason this recipe is such a winner. Here’s what I recommend:

• Baking sheet: Line it with parchment or wax paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl will hold the peanut butter filling ingredients. An electric hand mixer makes it easier, but you could mix by hand with a sturdy spoon.
• Microwave-safe bowls: You’ll need two—one for melting the chocolate chips and one for the peanut butter chips.
• Fork or spoon for dipping: This helps you coat the graham crackers in chocolate without making a huge mess.
• Spatula: Handy for smoothing out the peanut butter mixture on each graham cracker.

Step-by-step: My foolproof method for buckeye graham crackers

Let’s get into the details! Here’s how to make these delicious buckeye graham crackers, with a few tips I’ve picked up along the way.

1. Prep the graham crackers
   Start by breaking each graham cracker sheet in half to create squares. Lay them out on a lined baking sheet and set aside. This makes it easy to work assembly-line style.
2. Make the peanut butter filling
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy. The mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape—if it’s too soft, add a bit more powdered sugar.
3. Form the peanut butter balls
   Roll the peanut butter mixture into 1-inch balls. I find that dampening your hands slightly helps prevent the mixture from sticking. Place one peanut butter ball on each graham cracker.
4. Flatten and spread
   Gently press each peanut butter ball to flatten it onto the surface of the graham cracker, spreading it all the way to the edges. It doesn’t have to be perfect—just make sure each graham cracker is evenly covered.
5. Melt the chocolate
   In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
6. Coat the graham crackers
   Dip each peanut butter-topped graham cracker into the melted chocolate, letting any excess drip off before placing it back on the baking sheet. I like to use a fork to help with this—it keeps my fingers (mostly) chocolate-free.
7. Melt and drizzle the peanut butter chips
   In another microwave-safe bowl, combine the peanut butter chips and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. Drizzle the melted peanut butter chips over the chocolate-coated graham crackers for a pretty, two-tone finish.
8. Let them set
   Pop the tray in the fridge for about 20 minutes to let the chocolate harden. Once set, they’re ready to enjoy!

Variations and fun twists to try

This recipe is versatile, so feel free to make it your own! Here are a few variations I’ve experimented with:

• Gluten-free version: Swap the graham crackers for gluten-free graham crackers. Most stores carry them now, and they work just as well in this recipe.
• Vegan option: Use dairy-free chocolate chips, plant-based butter, and vegan graham crackers. You could also substitute almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a slightly different flavor.
• Sea salt twist: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the chocolate coating before it hardens. This gives a nice contrast to the sweetness.
• Dark chocolate lovers: Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a deeper, more intense chocolate flavor.

Presentation and serving ideas

When you’re ready to serve, arrange these buckeye graham crackers on a platter. For a little extra flair, you can stack them like a deck of cards or fan them out in a circle. If you’re serving these at a party, consider placing them in small paper liners for a polished, professional look. You can also sprinkle a few chopped peanuts on top for extra texture and color.

Suggested drinks

These treats pair beautifully with beverages that balance the richness of chocolate and peanut butter. Here are a few of my favorite options:

• Iced coffee or cold brew: The bitterness of coffee complements the sweetness of the graham crackers, making for a delightful contrast.
• Milk or almond milk: There’s a reason milk and cookies go hand-in-hand! The creaminess of milk balances out the chocolatey, peanut buttery flavors.
• Hot cocoa: For a cozy pairing, serve these with a mug of hot cocoa topped with whipped cream. Double the chocolate, double the fun!
• Chai latte: The warm spices in chai tea provide an interesting flavor contrast to the sweet, nutty treats.
• Sparkling water with a splash of fruit juice: If you want something refreshing, try sparkling water with a splash of orange or cranberry juice. It’s light and refreshing without being too sweet.

Storage and reheating tips

These buckeye graham crackers are best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for up to a week. If you’re stacking them, place a piece of parchment or wax paper between layers to prevent sticking. They can also be frozen for up to a month—just let them thaw in the fridge for a few hours before serving.

Adjusting for different serving sizes

This recipe makes about 24 buckeye graham crackers, but it’s easy to adjust if you’re making them for a smaller gathering or a larger event. To halve the recipe, simply cut all the ingredients in half. If you want to double it, make sure you have enough baking sheets and fridge space for all the graham crackers to set.

FAQs

Q: Can I use natural peanut butter?
A: I recommend using regular peanut butter for the best texture, as natural peanut butter can make the filling too soft. However, if you only have natural peanut butter, add a little extra powdered sugar to help thicken it.

Q: What’s the best way to melt chocolate without burning it?
A: Microwave the chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring each time. Alternatively, use a double boiler for gentler heat.

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes! These store well in the fridge for up to a week, so they’re perfect for prepping ahead.

Q: Can I skip the peanut butter drizzle?
A: Absolutely. The drizzle is optional, but it does add a nice touch. You could also try a drizzle of white chocolate for a different look.

Q: Do I have to use graham crackers?
A: No, feel free to substitute with other crunchy cookies like digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers.

Whether you’re making these for a family gathering or just to satisfy a chocolate-peanut butter craving, I hope these buckeye graham crackers bring a little joy to your kitchen. They’re easy to make, fun to eat, and endlessly adaptable—perfect for bakers and snackers alike. Happy snacking!

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