Save A classic holiday confection featuring creamy peanut butter centers partially dipped in rich chocolate, resembling the nut of the Ohio buckeye tree.
I first learned to make peanut butter buckeyes during a family gathering, and they quickly became a staple for our holiday cookie trays. The fuss-free technique and irresistible peanut butter-chocolate combination always draw smiles.
Ingredients
- Peanut Butter Filling: 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter, 1/2 cup 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
- Make Peanut Butter Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together peanut butter, softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and creamy.
- Add Powdered Sugar:
- Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated and the dough is stiff but pliable.
- Shape Buckeyes:
- Scoop out 1-inch portions and roll into smooth balls. Place 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 chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using) together over a pot of simmering water or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring until smooth.
- Dip Buckeyes:
- Using a toothpick, dip each chilled peanut butter ball about 3/4 of the way into melted chocolate, leaving the top exposed to resemble a buckeye. Let excess chocolate drip off.
- Finish & Chill:
- Return dipped buckeye to baking sheet, remove toothpick, and gently smooth over hole if desired. Chill until chocolate is set, about 30 minutes. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Save Sharing these with my family is always a highlight of the season: my kids love helping with the dipping and everyone tries to sneak a taste before they are fully chilled.
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.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 130, Total Fat: 8 g, Carbohydrates: 14 g, Protein: 2 g (per buckeye)
Save Treat yourself and your loved ones to these classic buckeye candies: they are sure to become a favorite at your holiday table. Enjoy with coffee or cold milk for the full experience.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of peanut butter works best?
Creamy peanut butter creates a smooth filling, while chunky adds texture for a crunchier bite.
- → How do I achieve a smooth chocolate coating?
Melting chocolate with a bit of coconut oil or shortening helps produce an even, glossy coating.
- → Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, these treats can be chilled or frozen for up to two months, making them convenient for early preparation.
- → What if the filling is too sticky to shape?
Adding more powdered sugar gradually helps stiffen the dough until it’s pliable enough to roll.
- → How can I store them to maintain freshness?
Store buckeyes in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the texture firm and flavor fresh.