Description
Classic Buckeyes are a delightful holiday treat featuring creamy peanut butter centers dipped in rich, semi-sweet chocolate. This no-bake recipe combines simple ingredients for a nostalgic candy that’s perfect for sharing or gifting during festive seasons.
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
- Prepare the peanut butter mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, peanut butter, and vanilla extract. Gradually add powdered sugar until the mixture reaches a rollable consistency—it should be firm enough to hold its shape but not crumbly.
- Shape into balls: Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Chill the peanut butter balls: Place the baking sheet in the freezer for 15-20 minutes, or until the peanut butter balls are firm enough to handle.
- Melt the chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted.
- Dip the peanut butter balls: Using a toothpick, dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, leaving a small circle of peanut butter exposed on top for the classic “buckeye” look. Gently tap off the excess chocolate.
- Set the chocolate coating: Place the dipped buckeyes back on the parchment paper. Use the back of a spoon to smooth over the toothpick hole if desired.
- Allow chocolate to firm: Let the chocolate set at room temperature or refrigerate the buckeyes until firm, about 30 minutes.
- Add finishing touches (optional): Drizzle additional melted chocolate on top or sprinkle with festive toppings for a decorative touch.
- Store properly: Store the buckeyes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer storage.
Notes
- Ensure the peanut butter mixture is firm but not dry to get perfect balls that hold shape.
- If the chocolate thickens while dipping, gently reheat in short bursts to maintain smooth consistency.
- You can substitute creamy peanut butter for a smoother texture or chunky for added crunch.
- For festive presentation, try decorating with colored sprinkles or sea salt before the chocolate sets.
- Allow buckeyes to come to room temperature for a few minutes before serving for best flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (mostly melting chocolate and setting)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American