Save A classic holiday confection featuring creamy peanut butter centers partially dipped in rich chocolate, resembling the nut of the Ohio buckeye tree.
I have fond memories of making these peanut butter buckeyes with my family every December: everyone would crowd around the kitchen, rolling dough into balls and dipping them in chocolate. The tradition still brings smiles and sticky fingers each year.
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
- Mix Peanut Butter 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).
- Form 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 (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.
- Set and Store:
- Return the dipped buckeye to the baking sheet. Remove the toothpick and gently smooth over the hole if desired. Chill until the chocolate is set, about 30 minutes. Store buckeyes in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Save My kids always loved rolling the peanut butter dough and trying to dip it just right to leave the signature buckeye top: we laughed over the slightly lopsided ones and celebrated the perfect ones together.
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
Calories: 130, Total Fat: 8 g, Carbohydrates: 14 g, Protein: 2 g (per buckeye)
Save Share these homemade buckeyes with friends for an irresistible holiday treat. Their peanut butter centers and chocolate shells are sure to delight every sweet tooth.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What kind of peanut butter works best?
Creamy peanut butter provides a smooth texture, but chunky peanut butter can add a crunchier bite.
- → Can I substitute the butter in the filling?
Unsalted butter softens the filling and balances flavor, but alternatives like margarine may alter texture.
- → How do I melt the chocolate for dipping?
Melt chocolate chips gently using a double boiler or microwave, stirring until smooth to ensure even coating.
- → What is the purpose of chilling the peanut butter balls?
Chilling firms the centers so they hold shape during dipping without melting or breaking apart.
- → How should these treats be stored?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain texture and freshness, lasting up to two months.