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Homemade Buckeyes: Peanut Butter Chocolate Candies Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.4 from 62 reviews
  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 36 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Classic Buckeyes are a delightful no-bake treat featuring creamy peanut butter balls partially dipped in rich chocolate, creating a signature look reminiscent of the buckeye nut. These bite-sized confections balance the salty-sweet flavors of peanut butter and chocolate, making them perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or anytime you crave an indulgent snack.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Peanut Butter Mixture

  • 1/2 cup butter (unsalted, softened)
  • 2 cups peanut butter (creamy, not natural)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 4 cups confectioners sugar (powdered)
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (or kosher salt)

Chocolate Coating

  • 12 oz semisweet chocolate chips (Ghirardelli recommended)
  • 11.5 oz milk chocolate chips (Ghirardelli recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil (or vegetable shortening)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside to easily place the buckeyes once formed.
  2. Cream Butter and Peanut Butter: In a mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer with a paddle attachment to cream the softened butter and creamy peanut butter together until the mixture lightens in color and becomes silky smooth.
  3. Add Vanilla and Salt: Mix in the vanilla extract and sea salt until thoroughly combined.
  4. Add Powdered Sugar Gradually: Slowly add the powdered sugar in 1/3 cup increments, mixing well after each addition. Continue until the dough is thick enough to roll into balls; add a bit more sugar if needed for the proper consistency.
  5. Form Peanut Butter Balls: Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and roll them into balls using clean hands. Place each ball onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
  6. Insert Toothpicks and Chill: Insert a toothpick into the center of each peanut butter ball. Refrigerate the balls for 15 minutes up to an hour to firm them up for dipping.
  7. Melt Chocolate: Melt the semisweet and milk chocolate chips together with the coconut oil using a double boiler or microwave, stirring frequently to ensure the chocolate melts smoothly and does not burn.
  8. Dip Buckeyes: Remove the peanut butter balls from the refrigerator. Holding each by the toothpick, dip the balls into the melted chocolate, covering about 80% of the peanut butter to maintain the classic Buckeye appearance.
  9. Set Chocolate: Place the dipped buckeyes back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet and allow the chocolate to set completely.
  10. Remove Toothpicks: Once the buckeyes reach room temperature and the chocolate is firm, gently twist and remove the toothpicks.
  11. Fill Holes: Use your finger to smooth and gently fill the small holes left by the toothpicks with peanut butter.
  12. Serve and Store: Serve immediately or store in an airtight container. Keep refrigerated for a firmer texture or at room temperature if you prefer softer peanut butter centers.

Notes

  • Use creamy peanut butter for the best texture; natural peanut butter may not hold the shape well.
  • If the dough is too sticky to roll, add a little more powdered sugar until it becomes manageable.
  • To melt chocolate safely, use low heat or short bursts in the microwave to prevent burning.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with vegan butter and ensure chocolate chips are dairy-free.
  • Store buckeyes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.