Save to Pinterest A classic holiday confection featuring creamy peanut butter centers partially dipped in rich chocolate, these buckeyes resemble the nut of the Ohio buckeye tree and deliver festive delight with every bite.
Growing up in Ohio, making buckeyes was a cherished family tradition every winter. The step of dipping peanut butter balls in chocolate was always my job, and the anticipation of that first creamy bite never gets old.
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 the Peanut Butter Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the peanut butter, softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and creamy.
- Add Powdered 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 the Buckeyes:
- Scoop out 1-inch portions and roll into smooth balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Chill the Balls:
- Chill the peanut butter balls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or until firm.
- Melt the 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 and Finish:
- 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. Return the dipped buckeye to the baking sheet, remove the toothpick, and gently smooth over the hole if desired.
- Set and Store:
- Chill until the chocolate is set, about 30 minutes. Store buckeyes in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Save to Pinterest Our family always manages to sneak a few fresh buckeyes from the refrigerator during game day gatherings. It's no surprise that this treat instantly brings smiles—and sometimes friendly debates about who dipped theirs the neatest.
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: 130 calories, 8 g total fat, 14 g carbohydrates, 2 g protein
Holiday Pairings
These buckeyes pair perfectly with hot cocoa or a glass of cold milk, and make lovely gifts when stacked in festive containers.
Save to Pinterest Homemade buckeyes are the sweetest way to share holiday spirit. Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of peanut butter works best?
Creamy peanut butter is ideal for smooth texture, but chunky can add crunch if preferred.
- → How do I achieve the classic buckeye look?
Dip balls about three-quarters in melted chocolate, leaving a small portion exposed for the signature appearance.
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, they store well in the refrigerator for several days and can be frozen for longer storage.
- → What is the purpose of coconut oil in the coating?
Adding coconut oil helps create a smoother, glossier chocolate coating that sets nicely.
- → Are there any suggested flavor variations?
Adding a pinch of cinnamon to the filling offers a subtle twist, enhancing richness.