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Buckeyes
Buckeyes are a delicious combination of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate, perfect for any occasion. This easy recipe makes a sweet, crowd-pleasing treat everyone will love!
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These classic Buckeyes are the perfect mix of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate. You’ll love how easy they are to make, and they’re always a hit at parties or holiday gatherings. Whip up a batch for a fun and delicious treat that everyone will want more of!
This recipe is super easy to follow, with step-by-step photos and clear directions. We’ve added pro tips and tricks to help you make the best Buckeyes possible. Plus, we answer all your frequently asked questions to ensure perfect results every time!
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Buckeyes are a fun and easy treat that everyone loves! You can make these in just thirty minutes, and they’re perfect for parties, potlucks, or holiday gatherings. The creamy peanut butter center pairs perfectly with the rich chocolate coating, making them irresistible. Try this recipe at home for a sweet, crowd-pleasing snack that's always a hit!
Ingredients
What you'll need to make this Buckeye Dessert:
- 1¾ cup of creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup of butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 3 cups of powdered sugar
- 3 cups of semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon of shortening
Substitutions and Additions
Personalize your peanut butter Buckeyes recipe by swapping out ingredients and adding delicious extras! These simple changes can make your Buckeyes uniquely yours. Here are some top substitutions and additions:
Swap Chocolate: Try dark chocolate or white chocolate instead of milk chocolate for a rich or sweeter twist.
Substitute Peanut Butter: Use almond butter or cashew butter for a different nutty flavor in your candy.
Add Crunch: Mix in crushed pretzels or crispy rice cereal to the peanut butter mixture for a fun texture.
How to Make Buckeyes
Follow along with our step-by-step pictures, instructions, and helpful tips and tricks listed below. Let’s get started on making these delicious chocolate Buckeyes! You’ll love how easy and fun they are to make!
FIRST STEP: Line a baking sheet with wax paper and set it aside.
SECOND STEP: Using an electric mixer and a medium bowl, or a stand mixer, cream together the peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla.
THIRD STEP: Slowly add the powdered sugar, and mix until smooth.
FOURTH STEP: Using a spoon or small cookie dough scoop, scoop the peanut butter mixture and shape into 1-inch balls (about ½ tablespoon) and place on the waxed paper-covered baking sheet.
Pro Tip
If you are rolling the balls with your hands and are finding that it is sticky work, cover your hands with a light dusting of powdered sugar to prevent the peanut butter from sticking to you.
FIFTH STEP: Place the peanut butter balls in the freezer for 45 minutes.
SIXTH STEP: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and the shortening.
SEVENTH STEP: Heat in the microwave for 45 seconds. Remove and stir the chocolate chips. Return to the microwave and heat in 15-second intervals, stirring well after every 15 seconds until the chocolate is smooth.
EIGHTH STEP: Remove the peanut butter balls from the freezer.
NINTH STEP: Insert a toothpick into the peanut butter balls. Dip each ball into the melted chocolate, leaving a small amount of the top of the peanut butter visible. Allow the excess chocolate to drip off, or carefully wipe the bottom of the ball on the side of the bowl. Return to the sheet pan.
Pro Tip
The chocolate has to be quite hot and the peanut butter balls really cold for the chocolate to stick properly. If you find it is taking too much time, you may want to keep the peanut butter balls in the freezer and only take a few out at a time to work with.
TENTH STEP: You will need to place the chocolate peanut butter balls in the fridge to help the chocolate properly set.
Pro Tip
This recipe is super easy to double, freezes really well, and makes excellent gifts to share.
How To Serve Buckeyes
You can serve these Buckeyes candies in so many fun ways! They’re perfect for any occasion, and everyone will love them. Here are some ideas for how to serve them:
- Holiday Parties: Buckeyes are always a holiday favorite with their festive chocolate-peanut butter combo. Serve them alongside sugar cookies or gingerbread men for a sweet treat platter.
- Kid’s Birthday Parties: Kids love these bite-sized Buckeyes! They’re easy to grab and enjoy. Pair them with chocolate chip cookies or cupcakes for a fun dessert table.
- Game Day Snacks: These Buckeyes make a perfect game day treat! Their rich, sweet flavor complements salty snacks like pretzels or popcorn perfectly.
Why You'll Love This Peanut Butter Buckeyes Recipe
Buckeyes are more than just a sweet treat—they’re a beloved favorite for a few irresistible reasons:
- A Perfect Blend of Sweet and Salty: The creamy peanut butter center pairs perfectly with the rich chocolate coating. The balance of flavors makes each bite absolutely satisfying.
- A Fun and Easy Recipe: With just a few ingredients, this recipe comes together in no time. It’s perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers alike.
- Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday, party, or casual snack, Buckeyes fit every occasion. Their bite-sized form makes them easy to enjoy anytime.
Buckeyes are the perfect treat to make and share with family and friends—everyone will be asking for more!
Recipe FAQ
Why are my Buckeyes too soft?
If they seem too soft, try chilling the peanut butter mixture longer before rolling. It helps them firm up.
How do I keep Buckeyes from cracking?
Make sure the peanut butter balls are cold before dipping in warm chocolate. This prevents cracks from forming.
Why do my Buckeyes have uneven chocolate coverage?
Ensure you dip them smoothly into the chocolate, swirling the toothpick or dipping tool to create even coating.
Can I use a different tool for dipping?
A toothpick works best for control, but you can also use a small fork or dipping tool for easier handling.
Serving FAQ
How should I serve Buckeyes at a party?
Serve Buckeyes on a festive platter or tray. Their bite-sized shape makes them perfect for easy, grab-and-go snacking.
Can I serve Buckeyes at room temperature?
Yes, Buckeyes can be served at room temperature. They hold their shape and taste great when kept cool, not cold.
Are Buckeyes good for kids’ parties?
Kids love them! Their sweet peanut butter and chocolate combo makes them a fun, kid-friendly treat for any celebration.
How many Buckeyes should I make for a gathering?
Plan on making two to three Buckeyes per guest. They’re small and irresistible, so guests usually want more than one!
Storage FAQ
Follow These Tips for Optimal Storage and Reheating
From making Buckeyes ahead of time to storing and reheating them, we’ve got you covered! Follow the directions, tips, and tricks below to keep your Buckeyes fresh and delicious.
Can I prepare Buckeyes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Buckeyes in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
What’s the best way to store leftover Buckeyes?
Store leftover Buckeyes in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to two weeks.
Can I freeze Buckeyes?
Yes, you can freeze Buckeyes in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw them in the fridge before serving.
How should I thaw and serve frozen Buckeyes?
Thaw frozen Buckeyes in the fridge overnight, then serve them chilled or at room temperature for the best texture.
Buckeyes
Buckeyes are a delicious combination of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate, perfect for any occasion. This easy recipe makes a sweet, crowd-pleasing treat everyone will love!
Did you try this recipe?Let our readers know how it turned out by Leaving a Review!
Ingredients
- 1¾ cups creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup butter (softened)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 3 cups semi sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon shortening
DIRECTIONS
- Line a baking sheet with waxed paper and set it aside.
- Using an electric handheld mixer and a medium-sized mixing bowl, or a stand mixer; cream together the peanut butter, softened butter and vanilla.
- Slowly add the powdered sugar, and mix until smooth.
- Using a spoon or small cookie dough scoop, scoop the peanut butter mixture and shape into 1-inch round balls and place on the waxed paper covered baking sheet. (This usually measures out to a little over a ½ tablespoon)
- Place the peanut butter balls in the freezer for 45 minutes.
- In a heat-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and the shortening.
- Heat in the microwave for 45 seconds. Remove and stir the chocolate chips. Return to the microwave and heat in 15-second intervals, stirring well after each 15 seconds until the chocolate is smooth.
- Remove the peanut butter balls from the freezer.
- Insert a toothpick into the peanut butter balls. Dip each ball into the chocolate, leaving a small amount of the top of the peanut butter visible. Allow the excess chocolate to drip off, or carefully wipe the bottom of the ball on the side of the bowl. Return to the sheet pan.
- You will need to place the balls in the fridge to help the chocolate properly set.
Notes
- If you are rolling the balls with your hands and are finding that it is sticky work, cover your hands with a light dusting of powdered sugar to prevent the peanut butter from sticking to you.
- The chocolate has to be quite hot and the peanut butter balls really cold for the chocolate to stick properly. If you find it is taking too much time, you may want to keep the peanut butter balls in the freezer and only take a few out at a time to work with.
- This recipe is super easy to double, freezes really well and makes excellent gifts to share.
Nutrition
Calories: 170kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 6mg | Sodium: 57mg | Potassium: 118mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin A: 65IU | Calcium: 12mg | Iron: 1mg
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