Pin A classic holiday confection featuring creamy peanut butter centers partially dipped in rich chocolate, resembling the nut of the Ohio buckeye tree.
I first made these Peanut Butter Buckeyes for a family Christmas party, and they quickly became the most requested treat each year. Everyone loves their nostalgic taste and fun look.
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
- Prepare 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 Balls:
- 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 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.
- Set Buckeyes:
- Return the dipped buckeye to the baking sheet. Remove the toothpick and gently smooth over the hole if desired.
- Chill & Store:
- Chill until the chocolate is set, about 30 minutes. Store buckeyes in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Pin Making buckeyes quickly became a fun tradition with my children, rolling the peanut butter balls together and sneaking little tastes between batches. It always brings laughter and sweet memories to our kitchen.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, hand mixer or stand mixer, rubber spatula, baking sheet, parchment paper, double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, toothpicks
Allergen Information
Contains peanuts, dairy, and soy (if using chocolate containing soy lecithin). May contain traces of gluten depending on chocolate and powdered sugar processing—always check product labels.
Nutritional Information
Per buckeye: Calories 130, Total Fat 8 g, Carbohydrates 14 g, Protein 2 g
Pin Gift these delightful buckeyes in a festive box or share them at gatherings for an irresistibly sweet holiday tradition. They are sure to become a favorite year after year.
Recipe Q&A
- → How do I achieve the classic buckeye appearance?
Partially dip chilled peanut butter balls in melted chocolate, leaving a small top portion uncovered to mimic the buckeye nut.
- → Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, using crunchy peanut butter adds a pleasant texture contrast to the smooth chocolate coating.
- → How long should I chill the peanut butter balls before dipping?
Chill the peanut butter balls for at least 30 minutes until firm, ensuring easier handling during chocolate dipping.
- → What can I use to make the chocolate coating smoother?
Adding coconut oil or vegetable shortening to the melted chocolate helps create a smoother, shinier coating.
- → How should I store these treats for best freshness?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator; they keep well for up to two months if frozen.