These irresistible chocolate-peanut butter treats capture the essence of Ohio’s beloved Buckeye candies in just 25 minutes. Named after the state’s native buckeye tree nuts, these no-bake delights feature a smooth peanut butter center enrobed in rich chocolate.
With only 101 calories per piece, they’re a perfect bite-sized indulgence for holiday gatherings, gift-giving, or satisfying sweet cravings. The simple prep and quick freezing time make them an ideal last-minute dessert that never fails to impress.
Ingredients for Classic Buckeyes
- Butter: 1 cup (2 sticks), at room temperature for easy mixing
- Creamy Peanut Butter: 1 cup, use good quality for best results
- Powdered Sugar: 4 cups, sifted to prevent lumps
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon, adds depth of flavor
- Semi-sweet Chocolate: 6 ounces, choose between melting wafers or almond bark
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix Base: Beat butter and peanut butter together using electric beaters until perfectly combined
- Sugar Integration: Gradually incorporate powdered sugar until achieving a smooth, firm consistency
- Flavor Enhancement: Mix in vanilla extract until well blended
- Shape Formation: Scoop mixture into approximately 5 dozen small mounds on a baking sheet
- Chilling Time: Place in freezer for 30 minutes until firm enough to handle
- Chocolate Prep: While waiting, melt your chocolate according to package directions
- Dipping Process: Using a toothpick, dip each chilled peanut butter ball into melted chocolate
- Setting Time: Place dipped candies on parchment paper and allow to set completely
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container in refrigerator or freezer for best results
Chocolate Tips for Perfect Coating
The magic of Buckeyes happens in the chocolate coating! For the smoothest results, melt your chocolate low and slow – either in 30-second bursts in the microwave or using a double boiler.
If your chocolate seems too thick, add a tiny bit of coconut oil or shortening to thin it out. Keep the chocolate warm while dipping, and tap off extra coating gently on the side of your bowl. A fork works great if you don’t have toothpicks handy!
Storage Tips
These little peanut butter treats taste amazing straight from the fridge or freezer! Pop them in an airtight container and they’ll stay fresh in your fridge for up to 2 weeks. Want to make them last even longer? Store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Just let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before eating – the chocolate will soften just enough to give you that perfect bite!
Easy Variations
Love to mix things up? Try using crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth for added texture. Dark chocolate or white chocolate make amazing coating options too! For extra fun, roll some of your Buckeyes in crushed peanuts, sprinkles, or coconut right after dipping while the chocolate is still wet.
You can even add a tiny pinch of sea salt on top for a sweet-salty combo that’s out of this world!
Serving Ideas
These Buckeyes make the perfect addition to any dessert table or cookie platter. Set them out on a pretty plate for parties, pack them in decorated boxes for holiday gifts, or add them to cookie tins for sharing.
They’re also super cute served on small cupcake liners. Want to make them extra special? Place them in mini paper candy cups and arrange them in a box like fancy chocolates!
Buckeye Recipe
Equipment
- Electric Beaters
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Toothpicks
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter (2 sticks)
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 6 ounces semi-sweet melting chocolate, melting wafers, or chocolate almond bark
Instructions
- Use electric beaters to cream together the butter and peanut butter.
- Slowly add the powdered sugar until you get a smooth consistency.
- Add the vanilla and mix.
- Scoop about 5 dozen small peanut butter mounds onto a baking sheet and place in the freezer for about 30 minutes. Once cold, they will be easier to handle and roll into smooth balls.
- Meanwhile, melt the chocolate, melting wafers, or chocolate almond bark according to package instructions.
- Use a toothpick to dip and coat each peanut butter ball in chocolate. Allow excess to drip off and then place them on a parchment covered baking sheet and allow them to set. Store in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer.
