Save A classic holiday confection featuring creamy peanut butter centers partially dipped in rich chocolate, resembling the nut of the Ohio buckeye tree.
The first time I made buckeyes, every bite reminded me of family gatherings in Ohio, where these treats never lasted long on the dessert tray. Watching everyone reach for seconds (& thirds) proved just how beloved this recipe is.
Ingredients
- Peanut Butter Filling: 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter, 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter softened, 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt, 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar sifted
- Chocolate Coating: 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate, 2 tablespoons coconut oil or vegetable shortening (optional for smoother coating)
Instructions
- Make the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the peanut butter, softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and creamy.
- Add Sugar:
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated and the dough is stiff but pliable (you may need to use your hands).
- Shape:
- Scoop out 1-inch portions and roll into smooth balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Chill:
- Chill the peanut butter balls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or until firm.
- Melt Chocolate:
- In a heatproof bowl, melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using) together over a pot of simmering water (double boiler) or in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring until smooth.
- Dip Buckeyes:
- Using a toothpick, dip each chilled peanut butter ball about 3/4 of the way into the melted chocolate, leaving the top exposed to resemble a buckeye. Let excess chocolate drip off.
- Finish:
- Return the dipped buckeye to the baking sheet. Remove the toothpick and gently smooth over the hole if desired.
- Set Chocolate:
- Chill until the chocolate is set, about 30 minutes. Store buckeyes in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Save My kids love helping roll the dough into balls and dipping them into chocolate. It&s become a fun family tradition during the holidays with everyone getting their hands a little messy together!
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl hand mixer or stand mixer rubber spatula baking sheet parchment paper double boiler or microwave-safe bowl toothpicks
Nutritional Information
Per buckeye: Calories 130 Total Fat 8 g Carbohydrates 14 g Protein 2 g
Flavor Variations
Use chunky peanut butter for added texture or add a pinch of cinnamon for a subtle twist on the classic.
Save These peanut butter buckeyes always disappear quickly and make perfect edible gifts. Enjoy & share a taste of classic holiday cheer!
Recipe FAQ
- → What causes the buckeyes to have a smooth texture?
The smooth texture comes from blending creamy peanut butter with softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is stiff but pliable, ensuring easy rolling and a creamy bite.
- → How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking after coating?
Using coconut oil or vegetable shortening when melting chocolate creates a smoother coating that is less prone to cracking once set.
- → Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead?
Yes, using crunchy peanut butter adds a delightful crunch to the centers for a different texture experience.
- → What is the purpose of chilling the peanut butter balls before dipping?
Chilling firms the peanut butter centers, making them easier to dip and helping the chocolate to set quickly without melting the filling.
- → How long will these buckeyes keep fresh?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the buckeyes stay fresh for up to two weeks, and they freeze well for up to two months.