Description
Classic Buckeyes are delightful peanut butter balls partially dipped in rich chocolate, resembling the nut of the Ohio buckeye tree. This no-bake treat combines creamy peanut butter, buttery sweetness, and smooth chocolate for an indulgent dessert that’s perfect for holidays, parties, or anytime you crave a nostalgic, bite-sized candy.
Ingredients
Scale
Peanut Butter Mixture
- 1 cup smooth peanut butter (240g)
- 5 tbsp unsalted butter (70g)
- 2 cups powdered sugar (240g)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (5mL)
Chocolate Coating
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips (340g)
- 2 tbsp coconut oil (30mL, optional)
Instructions
- Cream Peanut Butter and Butter: Combine the smooth peanut butter, unsalted butter, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream them together until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar to the creamed mixture while mixing on low speed. Once all is added, scrape down the sides of the bowl and mix again to form a firm peanut butter dough.
- Shape Peanut Butter Balls: Pinch off tablespoon-sized pieces (about 20 grams if weighing) of the peanut butter dough and roll them into smooth balls by hand. Place each ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Chill Peanut Butter Balls: Refrigerate the peanut butter balls on the baking sheet for at least 20 minutes or until they are firm to the touch, which makes them easier to dip.
- Melt Chocolate: In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine the semisweet chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using). Microwave on 50% power in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth and fully melted. Let the chocolate cool slightly to room temperature.
- Dip Peanut Butter Balls: Using a skewer or toothpick, dip each chilled peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, leaving a small portion of the peanut butter visible at the top to resemble a buckeye nut. Place the dipped balls back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Set and Serve: Chill the dipped buckeyes in the refrigerator until the chocolate coating is firm. For a polished look, if holes remain from the skewers, gently smooth the top with a knife or spatula. Serve chilled or at room temperature and enjoy your homemade buckeyes!
Notes
- Substitute creamy peanut butter with natural peanut butter for a more intense flavor, but ensure it is well mixed before use.
- Coconut oil is optional in the chocolate to help smooth the melting and hardening process, but you can omit it if preferred.
- Store buckeyes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze for longer storage.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking during chilling and dipping.
- For a festive twist, sprinkle a little sea salt or drizzle white chocolate over the buckeyes after dipping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: buckeyes, peanut butter balls, chocolate peanut butter candies, no-bake desserts, holiday treats
