Peanut Butter Buckeyes

A classic holiday confection featuring creamy peanut butter centers partially dipped in rich chocolate, resembling the nut of the Ohio buckeye tree. Preparation Time: 25 minutes Cooking Time: 10 minutes Total Time: 35 minutes (plus chilling time) Category: Dessert Difficulty: Easy Cuisine: American Yield: Approximately 36 buckeyes Diet: Vegetarian

I first made peanut butter buckeyes with my family for our annual holiday baking session. The nostalgic process of rolling and dipping each one brought extra joy to our kitchen, and now it's a favorite tradition every year.

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 incorporated and the dough is stiff but pliable (using hands if necessary).

Shape Balls:

Scoop 1-inch portions and roll into smooth balls. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Chill:

Refrigerate the peanut butter balls for at least 30 minutes or until firm.

Melt Chocolate:

In a heatproof bowl, melt chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using) over simmering water or microwave, stirring until smooth.

Dip Buckeyes:

With a toothpick, dip each chilled ball about 3/4 into chocolate, leaving the top exposed. Let excess drip off.

Finish & Set:

Return to baking sheet, remove toothpick, and smooth the hole if desired. Chill until chocolate sets (about 30 minutes). Store in airtight container in refrigerator.

Save

I remember sitting around the table with my kids, each of us rolling peanut butter dough and laughing at our imperfect circles. Sharing these buckeyes truly brought us closer together during the holidays.

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 chocolate contains soy lecithin). May contain traces of gluten depending on chocolate and powdered sugar processing. Always check product labels.

Nutritional Information

Each buckeye: Calories 130, Total Fat 8 g, Carbohydrates 14 g, Protein 2 g

Save

Peanut butter buckeyes are best enjoyed chilled, with friends and family gathered around. Their sweet creamy center and chocolate coating make every bite irresistible.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of peanut butter works best?

Creamy peanut butter ensures a smooth, pliable filling, while chunky varieties add a pleasant crunch if preferred.

→ How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking?

Use high-quality semisweet chocolate and consider adding coconut oil for a smoother coating that sets without cracking.

→ Can I store these for later use?

Yes, these treats freeze well for up to two months when stored in an airtight container.

→ What tools are needed for preparation?

A mixing bowl, hand or stand mixer, baking sheet with parchment paper, a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, and toothpicks for dipping.

→ How do I achieve the classic 'buckeye' look?

Dip chilled peanut butter balls about three-quarters into the melted chocolate, leaving a small exposed top to resemble the buckeye nut.