Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These easy Buckeyes are as delicious as they are simple to make. The combination of smooth peanut butter, buttery richness, and chocolate creates a treat that’s perfectly balanced. It’s a fun recipe to make with kids or for a holiday gathering, and since it’s no-bake, it’s quick and easy to prepare. They’re rich, satisfying, and just the right amount of sweetness.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter (not natural)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 3 ½ to 4 cups powdered sugar
- 12 ounces semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon shortening or coconut oil (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Mix the Peanut Butter Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to blend until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, about ½ cup at a time, mixing until the dough becomes stiff and no longer sticky. The dough should be firm enough to roll into balls without sticking to your hands.
- Roll into Balls: Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball using your hands. Place each ball onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining dough. Once all the balls are rolled, chill them in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or freeze for 15-20 minutes until firm.
- Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, add the chocolate chips and optional shortening or coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. Alternatively, melt the chocolate using a double boiler if preferred.
- Dip the Buckeyes: Insert a toothpick into the center of each chilled peanut butter ball. Dip each ball about three-quarters of the way into the melted chocolate, leaving the top portion exposed to resemble a buckeye. Let any excess chocolate drip off, then place the dipped ball back on the baking sheet. Smooth over the toothpick hole if desired.
- Let Them Set: Refrigerate the dipped Buckeyes for about 30 minutes or until the chocolate is fully set. Once firm, they are ready to serve or store.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 36 Buckeyes
Variations
- Chocolate Coating: Feel free to use milk chocolate or a combination of dark and milk chocolate for the coating for a sweeter taste.
- Add More Flavor: You can enhance the filling by adding a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of vanilla extract for extra depth of flavor.
- Different Nuts: For a twist, try mixing in crushed nuts like almonds or pecans into the peanut butter filling for added texture.
- Vegan Version: For a vegan version, use dairy-free chocolate chips and vegan butter to make the filling.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store Buckeyes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
- Reheating: These candies don’t need to be reheated, but if you freeze them, let them come to room temperature for the best texture before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy peanut butter?
It’s best to use creamy peanut butter that is smooth and stable, as natural peanut butter can cause the filling to be too runny or difficult to shape.
2. How do I keep the Buckeyes from falling apart while dipping them in chocolate?
Chilling the peanut butter balls until firm is essential for this. If the peanut butter mixture is too soft, it will be harder to dip.
3. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate or a combination of dark and milk chocolate to suit your taste.
4. Can I freeze the Buckeyes?
Yes, these candies freeze well. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Let them thaw for a few minutes before serving.
5. How do I make sure the chocolate coating is smooth?
Be sure to melt the chocolate gently using a microwave or double boiler, stirring frequently to avoid burning. Adding a small amount of shortening or coconut oil will make the chocolate smoother and easier to work with.
6. Can I add more sweetener to the filling?
If you prefer a sweeter filling, you can add more powdered sugar, but be careful not to make it too sweet or it may overpower the peanut butter flavor.
7. How do I make the Buckeyes extra crunchy?
You can add crushed nuts or rice cereal to the peanut butter mixture for added crunch and texture.
8. Can I use a different flavor for the filling?
While the classic peanut butter filling is the most popular, you can experiment with almond butter or cashew butter for a different nutty flavor.
9. How long do the Buckeyes need to set in the fridge?
Allow them to chill for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate coating is fully set and firm.
10. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, feel free to double the recipe if you’re making a larger batch for a crowd. Just be sure to have enough space in your fridge or freezer to chill them properly.
Conclusion
Easy Buckeyes are the ultimate sweet treat for peanut butter lovers. With their rich, creamy filling and smooth chocolate coating, these bite-sized candies are a nostalgic favorite that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for the holidays, a party, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, these no-bake Buckeyes are sure to be a hit. Enjoy every bite of this irresistible treat!
Easy Buckeyes Recipe
Buckeye candies are a nostalgic, no-bake treat combining creamy peanut butter with a crisp chocolate shell. These delightful candies are a favorite in the Midwest, especially around the holidays or football season.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 36 Buckeyes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter (not natural)
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt
3 ½ to 4 cups powdered sugar
12 ounces semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
1 tablespoon shortening or coconut oil (optional)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to blend until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, about ½ cup at a time, mixing until the dough becomes stiff and no longer sticky.
- Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball using your hands. Place each ball onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining dough. Chill the balls in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or freeze for 15-20 minutes.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, add the chocolate chips and optional shortening or coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
- Insert a toothpick into the center of each chilled peanut butter ball. Dip each ball about three-quarters of the way into the melted chocolate, leaving the top portion exposed. Let any excess chocolate drip off, then place the dipped ball back on the baking sheet.
- Refrigerate the dipped Buckeyes for about 30 minutes or until the chocolate is fully set.
- Once firm, they are ready to serve or store.
Notes
For best results, use creamy peanut butter that is smooth and stable; avoid natural peanut butter which may make the filling too runny.
Chilling the peanut butter balls before dipping is essential to prevent them from falling apart.
Milk chocolate can be used instead of dark chocolate for a sweeter taste.
If you prefer a crunchier filling, add crushed nuts or rice cereal to the peanut butter mixture.
These candies freeze well for up to 3 months. Let them thaw for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Buckeye
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
