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 Peanut Butter Buckeyes for a winter cookie swap and they disappeared in minutes. The iconic two-tone look never fails to spark conversation and nostalgia.
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 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 (use hands if needed).
- Shape Balls:
- 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 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. Let excess chocolate drip off.
- Finish and Set:
- Return the dipped buckeye to the baking sheet. Remove the toothpick and gently smooth over the hole if desired.
- Chill Again:
- Chill until the chocolate is set, about 30 minutes. Store buckeyes in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Pin Every Christmas, my family gathers around the kitchen table, rolling and dipping buckeyes together. It's a tradition that fills our home with laughter and the aroma of chocolate and peanut butter.
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 with soy lecithin). May contain traces of gluten depending on chocolate and powdered sugar processing.
Nutritional Information (per buckeye)
Calories: 130, Total Fat: 8 g, Carbohydrates: 14 g, Protein: 2 g
Pin Peanut Butter Buckeyes are a delightful addition to any dessert tray. Store them chilled and serve with a glass of cold milk for perfect enjoyment.
Recipe Q&A
- → What type of peanut butter works best?
Creamy peanut butter ensures smooth filling, but chunky varieties add a crunchy texture.
- → How can I get a smooth chocolate coating?
Adding coconut oil or vegetable shortening to melted chocolate helps achieve a glossy and smooth finish.
- → What is the best way to chill the peanut butter balls?
Place the formed peanut butter balls on parchment paper and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm them up for dipping.
- → Can I store these buckeyes for later?
Yes, they keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for several days and can be frozen up to two months.
- → How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking?
Store the treats in a cool environment and avoid sudden temperature changes to keep the chocolate coating intact.