Buckeyes

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate, you’ve come to the right place! Buckeyes are an Ohio favorite that are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. I love whipping up these no-bake goodies for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy night at home. They’re always a hit, and it’s hard to resist sneaking one (or two!) before serving them.

What makes Buckeyes so special is their perfect balance of sweet and salty. Each bite is a little piece of heaven. Plus, they’re simple enough to involve the kids in the kitchen, making it a fun activity for everyone!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No-Bake Convenience: You don’t need to turn on the oven for this recipe! Just mix, roll, dip, and enjoy.
• Family-Friendly Fun: Kids love helping out, especially when it comes to rolling the balls and dipping them in chocolate.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or just a treat for yourself, Buckeyes fit right in.
• Rich and Satisfying Flavor: The combination of creamy peanut butter and smooth chocolate offers a decadent experience with every bite.
• Make-Ahead Delight: These treats can be made ahead of time and stored in your fridge or at room temperature for easy snacking.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This list features simple and wholesome items that you likely already have in your pantry. Get ready to create something truly delicious!

For the Buckeye Filling

• 1/2 cup butter (unsalted, softened)
• 2 cups peanut butter (creamy, not natural)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 cups confectioners sugar (powdered)
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (or kosher)

For the Chocolate Coating

• 12 oz semisweet chocolate chips (I used Ghirardelli)
• 11.5 oz milk chocolate chips (I used Ghirardelli)
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil (or vegetable shortening)

Variations

This Buckeyes recipe is wonderfully flexible! If you’re feeling creative or want to switch things up, here are some fun variations:

• Add Some Crunch: Mix in chopped nuts like pecans or almonds for added texture and flavor.
• Change the Chocolate: Use dark chocolate instead of semisweet or milk chocolate for a richer taste.
• Try Different Dips: Experiment with white chocolate for a unique twist on the traditional coating.
• Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of espresso powder to the filling for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Make Buckeyes

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This will keep your Buckeyes from sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Cream Together Butter and Peanut Butter

In a bowl, cream together softened butter and peanut butter using a hand mixer or stand mixer with paddle attachment. Beat until the mixture lightens in color and becomes silky smooth. This step is important because it creates a creamy base that’s perfect for rolling into balls.

Step 3: Add Vanilla and Salt

Now, add in the vanilla extract and sea salt. Mix until fully combined. The salt enhances the flavor of the peanut butter beautifully!

Step 4: Incorporate Powdered Sugar

SLOWLY add powdered sugar in 1/3 cup increments while mixing well between additions. The dough should become thick enough to easily roll into balls. If it’s too soft, don’t hesitate to add more sugar until you get that perfect consistency.

Step 5: Roll into Balls

Using clean hands, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place each ball onto your prepared baking sheet. This is where you can really get creative—make sure they are all uniform in size!

Step 6: Chill Before Dipping

Insert a toothpick into the center of each ball and refrigerate them for about 15 minutes to an hour. Chilling helps them firm up so they hold their shape when dipped in chocolate.

Step 7: Melt Your Chocolate

While those beauties chill, melt both types of chocolate together with coconut oil using either a double boiler or microwave. Stir carefully as you melt; we don’t want any burnt chocolate here!

Step 8: Dip Each Ball

Once chilled, remove the balls from the refrigerator. Hold each ball by its toothpick and dip it into the melted chocolate, covering about 80% of it—this gives them that classic “Buckeye” look!

Step 9: Set on Baking Sheet

Place each dipped Buckeye back onto your lined baking sheet until all are coated and the chocolate has set.

Step 10: Finish with Toothpick Removal

After they’ve cooled down to room temperature, gently twist out each toothpick. Smooth over any holes left behind with your finger—this adds that finishing touch!

Step 11: Serve & Store

Serve immediately if you can resist! Otherwise, store your delightful Buckeyes in an airtight container either in the refrigerator or at room temperature if you prefer softer peanut butter.

Enjoy making these delicious Buckeyes; I can’t wait for you to share how they turn out!

Pro Tips for Making Buckeyes

Making Buckeyes is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use Softened Butter: Starting with softened butter helps create that silky-smooth texture in the peanut butter mixture. It combines better with the peanut butter and sugar, leading to a creamier filling.
• Adjust Consistency as Needed: If your dough feels too soft after adding the powdered sugar, don’t hesitate to add a bit more until you achieve the right firmness. This ensures your buckeyes hold their shape while being dipped in chocolate.
• Chill Before Dipping: Refrigerating the peanut butter balls before dipping in chocolate makes them firmer and easier to handle. It also helps prevent them from falling apart during the dipping process.
• Melt Chocolate Carefully: Whether using a microwave or double boiler, melt the chocolate slowly and stir frequently. This prevents burning and ensures a smooth, glossy coating.
• Seal Toothpick Holes: After removing the toothpicks, gently smooth over any holes with your finger. This not only enhances the appearance but also keeps your Buckeyes looking neat and appetizing.

How to Serve Buckeyes

These delicious Buckeyes can be presented in various fun ways that will impress your family and friends!

Garnishes

• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped peanuts or pecans on top of each Buckeye for added texture and flavor.
• Sea Salt Flakes: A light sprinkle of sea salt on top of the chocolate adds a savory contrast that enhances the sweetness.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling some melted chocolate over the finished Buckeyes creates an elegant touch and makes them visually appealing.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of seasonal fruits like strawberries, apples, or grapes provides a refreshing balance to the rich sweetness of Buckeyes.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Coffee or Hot Chocolate: Pairing with a warm beverage like coffee or hot chocolate creates a cozy dessert experience that’s perfect for gatherings.
• Milkshake: Blend up a quick milkshake using chocolate ice cream and milk for a fun drink that kids and adults alike will love alongside their Buckeyes.

Now you’re all set to make these delightful treats! Enjoy every bite of your homemade Buckeyes!

Make Ahead and Storage

Buckeyes are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make these delightful treats ahead of time, ensuring you always have a sweet snack ready to enjoy.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover Buckeyes in an airtight container.
• Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
• If you prefer softer peanut butter, they can also be stored at room temperature for a few days.

Freezing

• Place Buckeyes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat Buckeyes as they are best served cold or at room temperature.
• If you prefer them slightly softer, let them sit out for about 10-15 minutes before enjoying.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Buckeyes:

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! While creamy peanut butter gives a smoother texture, crunchy peanut butter adds delightful little bits of texture. Feel free to swap it based on your preference!

What makes Buckeyes so special?

Buckeyes are beloved for their perfect combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter. Their simplicity and deliciousness make them a favorite treat across generations.

How do I get my Buckeyes to hold their shape?

Ensure that your mixture is thick enough before rolling into balls. If it feels too soft, gradually mix in more confectioners’ sugar until you achieve the right consistency.

Can I customize my Buckeye recipe?

Yes! You can experiment with different types of chocolate or add ingredients like chopped nuts or sprinkles for added flavor and texture.

How long do homemade Buckeyes last?

Homemade Buckeyes can last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

Making Buckeyes is not just about the delicious result; it’s about the joy of creating something special that brings comfort and happiness. We hope this recipe fills your kitchen with warmth and sweetness. Enjoy every moment spent crafting these delightful treats, and don’t hesitate to share them with friends and family! Happy baking!