Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped peanuts
Special equipment needed:
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the peanut butter, softened butter, and salt until smooth.
4. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the peanut butter mixture and mix until fully combined.
5. Spread the peanut butter mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer.
6. Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer and spread it out evenly.
7. Sprinkle the chopped peanuts over the chocolate layer.
8. Chill the Buckeye Bark in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or until firm.
9. Once firm, break the Buckeye Bark into pieces and serve.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 5 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
Refrigerator temperature
Serving size:
Makes about 12 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 350
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 150mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 24g
Protein: 7g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Milk chocolate chips can be used instead of semisweet chocolate chips.
- Crunchy peanut butter can be used instead of creamy peanut butter.
- Almond butter can be used instead of peanut butter.
- Cashews or almonds can be used instead of peanuts.
Variations:
- Add a layer of crushed graham crackers to the peanut butter layer for a s'mores-inspired Buckeye Bark.
- Add a layer of caramel sauce to the peanut butter layer for a salted caramel Buckeye Bark.
- Drizzle melted white chocolate over the top of the Buckeye Bark for a decorative touch.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a spatula to spread the peanut butter mixture onto the baking sheet for a smooth and even layer.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the Buckeye Bark into pieces once it has chilled.
- Store the Buckeye Bark in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Storage instructions:
Store the Buckeye Bark in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Reheating instructions:
Buckeye Bark does not need to be reheated.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the Buckeye Bark on a decorative platter or in a clear glass jar.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle additional chopped peanuts or drizzle melted white chocolate over the top of the Buckeye Bark for a decorative touch.
Pairings:
Buckeye Bark pairs well with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot coffee.
Suggested side dishes:
Buckeye Bark is a dessert and does not require any side dishes.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the chocolate is not melting properly, try adding a tablespoon of vegetable oil to the chocolate and stirring until fully combined.
- If the peanut butter mixture is too thick, try adding a tablespoon of milk to the mixture and stirring until fully combined.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to use clean hands and utensils when preparing the Buckeye Bark to prevent contamination.
Food history:
Buckeye Bark is a variation of Buckeyes, a popular candy in Ohio named after the state tree, the Buckeye tree.
Flavor profiles:
Buckeye Bark is sweet and salty with a rich chocolate and peanut butter flavor.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the Buckeye Bark as a dessert or snack.
Related Categories
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Taste: Sweet, Creamy, Nutty, Chocolatey