If you have ever dreamed of indulging in a dessert that perfectly blends the creamy decadence of cheesecake with the beloved classic flavors of peanut butter and chocolate, then this No-Bake Buckeye Cheesecake Bars Recipe is exactly what you need. Each bite melts in your mouth, delivering a dreamy texture with a rich, chocolaty crust, luscious peanut butter filling, and a glossy chocolate ganache topping. Best of all, these bars come together without ever needing to heat up your kitchen, making them a simple yet show-stopping treat for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These no-bake buckeye cheesecake bars rely on simple, easy-to-find ingredients that come together to create a perfect balance of flavor and texture. From the buttery chocolate crust to the fluffy peanut butter filling and silky chocolate ganache, every component plays an essential role in crafting this irresistible dessert.
- Chocolate graham cracker crumbs (1 1/2 cups): Provides a flavorful, crunchy base that holds everything together.
- Unsalted butter, melted (6 tablespoons): Adds richness and moisture to the crust for a perfect texture.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the sweet and savory notes beautifully.
- Creamy peanut butter (1 cup): The star flavor providing that iconic buckeye taste and creamy body.
- Cream cheese, softened (8 ounces): Delivers that classic cheesecake creaminess and tang.
- Powdered sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the filling while keeping it silky smooth.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds a lovely aromatic warmth that rounds out the peanut butter flavor.
- Heavy whipping cream (1 cup): Whipped to stiff peaks, it lightens the filling for a perfect airy texture.
- Semisweet chocolate chips (1 cup): Melts into a rich ganache that crowns the bars with decadent chocolate goodness.
- Heavy cream for ganache (1/2 cup): Heated to create a smooth, shiny chocolate topping that sets beautifully.
How to Make No-Bake Buckeye Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave some overhang for easy removal later. In a mixing bowl, combine the chocolate graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and salt until the crumbs are evenly coated and hold together when pressed. Press this crumbly mixture firmly into the bottom of your pan to form an even, solid crust. Then pop it into the refrigerator to chill and set while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat together the peanut butter, softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is ultra smooth and creamy. In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form—this step ensures an airy lightness to the filling. Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture in batches, being careful not to deflate those clouds of cream. Once combined, spread the luscious peanut butter cheesecake layer evenly over your chilled crust. Refrigerate again while you prepare the ganache.
Step 3: Create and Add the Chocolate Ganache
For the crowning glory of this No-Bake Buckeye Cheesecake Bars Recipe, heat the half cup of heavy cream in a small saucepan just until it starts to simmer. Remove from heat and pour it over the semisweet chocolate chips placed in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for two minutes to melt the chocolate, then stir gently until you achieve a smooth, glossy ganache. Pour this rich chocolate layer over the cheesecake filling and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Place the entire pan back in the refrigerator and chill for at least four hours, or until completely set.
Step 4: Slice and Serve
Once fully chilled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Transfer them to a cutting board and slice into 16 perfectly sized squares. These no-bake buckeye cheesecake bars are ready to delight your taste buds or impress guests with their incredible peanut butter and chocolate harmony.
How to Serve No-Bake Buckeye Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
The easiest way to elevate your bars is with thoughtful garnishes. Try sprinkling chopped roasted peanuts over the ganache before chilling for a satisfying crunch. A dollop of whipped cream or a few whole buckeye candies on the side can also add a charming touch. Fresh strawberries or a drizzle of caramel sauce work beautifully if you want to add a bit of color and extra sweetness.
Side Dishes
Serve these rich bars alongside a cup of strong coffee or a glass of cold milk to complement the peanut butter and chocolate flavors perfectly. For a crowd-pleasing spread, pair them with fresh fruit slices or even a light green salad to balance the indulgence with fresh, crisp notes.
Creative Ways to Present
These bars shine at any gathering, whether cut neatly into uniform squares served on a decorative platter or stacked creatively to look like miniature towers. You can also prepare individual servings in small dessert cups, layering crust, filling, and ganache for effortless single-serve treats that look as good as they taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once made, your No-Bake Buckeye Cheesecake Bars Recipe keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator. Store leftovers in an airtight container and enjoy within 4-5 days to retain the creamy texture and fresh flavors.
Freezing
If you want to extend the life of these delicious bars, they freeze beautifully. Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the bars overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture.
Reheating
Since this is a no-bake cheesecake, reheating isn’t necessary. Simply thaw frozen bars in the fridge and serve chilled. If you prefer a slightly softer texture, let the bars sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful texture to the filling, giving the bars a little more bite and nutty flavor. It’s a nice twist if you love a little crunch in every bite.
What can I substitute if I don’t have chocolate graham cracker crumbs?
You can substitute chocolate cookie crumbs, such as crushed Oreos or chocolate wafer cookies. Just make sure to use enough melted butter to bind the crumbs together for the crust.
Is it okay to use reduced-fat cream cheese?
For the best creamy texture and flavor, full-fat cream cheese is recommended. Reduced-fat varieties can make the filling less rich and slightly more watery, but it will still work if you need a lighter version.
How long should I chill the bars for best results?
The bars need at least four hours in the refrigerator to set properly. Overnight chilling is even better, giving the flavors time to meld and the ganache to fully firm up.
Can I make these bars vegan or dairy-free?
With some creativity, yes! You’d want to substitute dairy cream and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives and ensure the chocolate is dairy-free. Likewise, use vegan butter or coconut oil in place of regular butter. Just note that the texture might differ slightly from the classic version.
Final Thoughts
This No-Bake Buckeye Cheesecake Bars Recipe is truly a delightful treat that manages to feel both indulgent and approachable. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a festive holiday, or just a special everyday indulgence, these bars bring together rich chocolate and peanut butter in a way that never fails to impress. They’re simple to make, require no oven, and deliver big on flavor and texture — so don’t wait! Grab your ingredients and make some magic happen in your kitchen today.
Print
No-Bake Buckeye Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These No-Bake Buckeye Cheesecake Bars feature a rich and creamy peanut butter cheesecake filling atop a chocolate graham cracker crust, topped with a smooth chocolate ganache. Perfect for peanut butter and chocolate lovers, these easy-to-make bars require no baking and are ideal for a quick dessert or party treat.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Filling
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
Ganache
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (for ganache)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. In a bowl, combine chocolate graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and salt. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust. Refrigerate while you make the filling.
- Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the peanut butter, softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture until fully incorporated.
- Assemble the filling layer: Spread the filling evenly over the chilled crust in the pan. Return the pan to the refrigerator to keep cool.
- Prepare the ganache: Heat 1/2 cup heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat just until it begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the semisweet chocolate chips in a bowl, let it sit for 2 minutes to soften the chocolate, then stir until smooth and glossy.
- Add the ganache topping: Pour the chocolate ganache evenly over the cheesecake filling and spread gently with a spatula.
- Chill the bars: Refrigerate the assembled bars for at least 4 hours, or until the cheesecake and ganache layers are fully set.
- Serve: Once chilled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Slice into 16 bars and serve chilled. Optionally, garnish with chopped peanuts for added texture.
Notes
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the best creamy texture.
- These bars freeze well; thaw slightly before serving for the best flavor and texture.
- For added crunch, sprinkle chopped peanuts over the ganache before chilling.
