Save to Pinterest A classic holiday confection featuring creamy peanut butter centers partially dipped in rich chocolate, resembling the nut of the Ohio buckeye tree.
I first made these Peanut Butter Buckeyes for a festive family cookie swap, and they quickly became a new tradition that everyone requests year after 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
- Prepare Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together peanut butter, softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and creamy.
- Add Powdered Sugar:
- Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated and the dough is stiff but pliable. Use hands if needed.
- Form Balls:
- Scoop out 1-inch portions, roll into balls, and place on parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Chill Balls:
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes until firm.
- Melt Chocolate:
- In a heatproof bowl, melt chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using) over simmering water or microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring until smooth.
- Dip Buckeyes:
- With a toothpick, dip each peanut butter ball about 3/4 of the way into chocolate, leaving the top exposed. Let excess drip off.
- Finish and Chill:
- Return dipped buckeyes to baking sheet, remove toothpick, and smooth hole if desired. Refrigerate until chocolate is set, about 30 minutes. Store in airtight container in refrigerator.
Save to Pinterest This recipe brings back memories of my grandmother letting us dip each ball and giggle over our messy fingers at the kitchen counter.
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. May contain traces of gluten depending on chocolate and powdered sugar—always check product labels.
Nutritional Information (per buckeye)
Calories: 130, Total Fat: 8 g, Carbohydrates: 14 g, Protein: 2 g
Save to Pinterest Share these sweet buckeyes with friends for instant holiday cheer. They are guaranteed to disappear quickly!
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of peanut butter works best?
Creamy peanut butter creates a smooth texture, but chunky versions add a pleasant crunch.
- → Can I substitute the chocolate used for dipping?
Semisweet chocolate is ideal for balance, but you can use dark or milk chocolate for different sweetness levels.
- → How long should the peanut butter balls chill before dipping?
Chilling for at least 30 minutes firms the centers, making them easier to dip without melting or breaking.
- → What is the purpose of coconut oil in the chocolate coating?
Adding coconut oil helps create a smoother, shinier coating that hardens well after dipping.
- → How should these treats be stored?
Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent melting.