Description
Classic Buckeyes are a beloved holiday treat featuring creamy peanut butter balls partially dipped in rich, semi-sweet chocolate to resemble Ohio’s buckeye nuts. These no-bake sweets combine the perfect balance of salty and sweet, with a smooth texture and a delightful peanut butter flavor, ideal for festive gatherings or anytime craving a nostalgic candy.
Ingredients
Scale
Peanut Butter Mixture
- 1 stick (1/2 cup) real butter, softened
- 1 jar (16 oz) Jif peanut butter
- Powdered sugar (enough to achieve rollable consistency, approximately 3 to 4 cups)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Chocolate Coating
- 1 bag (12 oz) semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, peanut butter, and vanilla extract. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing until the mixture achieves a firm but pliable, rollable consistency that can hold its shape without crumbling.
- Form the Balls: Roll the peanut butter mixture into small balls approximately 1 inch in diameter. Arrange the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Chill: Place the baking sheet in the freezer for 15-20 minutes or until the peanut butter balls become firm enough for dipping.
- Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the semi-sweet chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval until melted smoothly and fully combined without lumps.
- Dip the Buckeyes: Using a toothpick, carefully dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, leaving a small part of the peanut butter exposed on top to mimic the buckeye nut’s appearance. Gently tap to remove excess chocolate.
- Smooth the Hole: Place the coated buckeyes back on the parchment paper. Optionally, use the back of a spoon to smooth over the small hole left by the toothpick for a polished finish.
- Set the Chocolate: Allow the chocolate to set at room temperature, or refrigerate the buckeyes until the chocolate hardens completely.
- Optional Decoration: For a festive touch, drizzle additional melted chocolate over the buckeyes or sprinkle them with decorative toppings before the chocolate sets.
- Storage: Store the finished buckeyes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer preservation.
Notes
- Be sure to use real butter and quality peanut butter for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust powdered sugar quantity as needed to reach the ideal dough consistency.
- The small exposed peanut butter spot is characteristic of traditional buckeyes – avoid fully coating the balls in chocolate.
- Use parchment paper to facilitate easy removal and cleanup.
- The buckeyes can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes (chilling and melting chocolate time included)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
