# What You'll Need:
→ Peanut Butter Filling
01 - 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter
02 - 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
03 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
04 - 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
05 - 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
→ Chocolate Coating
06 - 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
07 - 2 tablespoons coconut oil or vegetable shortening (optional)
# Directions:
01 - In a large mixing bowl, beat together peanut butter, softened butter, vanilla extract, and sea salt until smooth and creamy.
02 - Gradually add sifted powdered sugar, mixing thoroughly until a stiff but pliable dough forms; use hands if necessary.
03 - Scoop 1-inch portions of dough and roll into smooth spheres; arrange on parchment-lined baking sheet.
04 - Refrigerate the peanut butter balls for at least 30 minutes until firm.
05 - Gently melt chocolate chips and optional coconut oil together using a double boiler or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
06 - Using a toothpick, dip each chilled ball about 3/4 into the melted chocolate, leaving the top exposed; allow excess chocolate to drip off.
07 - Place dipped items back on the baking sheet, remove toothpick, and smooth over the exposed area to resemble a buckeye nut.
08 - Chill until chocolate coating is firm, approximately 30 minutes; store finished pieces in an airtight container refrigerated.
