Classic Buckeyes: Peanut Butter and Chocolate Candies Recipe

Introduction

Buckeyes are a delightful treat combining creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate in a bite-sized ball. These classic candies are perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying a sweet snack anytime. Their signature look, with a small peanut butter spot exposed, makes them as charming as they are delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 cup smooth peanut butter (240g)
• 5 tbsp unsalted butter (70g)
• 2 cups powdered sugar (240g)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (5mL)
• 2 cups semisweet chocolate (340g)
• 2 tbsp coconut oil (30mL, optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cream the peanut butter and butter together with the vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
2. Step 2: Add the powdered sugar gradually and mix on low speed until fully incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl and mix again to ensure even blending.
3. Step 3: Pinch off tablespoon-sized pieces of the mixture and roll them into balls, about 20 grams each if using a scale.
4. Step 4: Place the peanut butter balls on a baking sheet and chill them in the refrigerator until firm, at least 20 minutes.
5. Step 5: In a medium bowl, combine the semisweet chocolate and coconut oil (if using). Melt in the microwave at 50% power, stirring every 20 seconds until smooth. Let it cool to room temperature.
6. Step 6: Use a skewer or toothpick to dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, leaving a small spot of peanut butter visible for that classic buckeye look.
7. Step 7: Chill the dipped buckeyes until the chocolate is firm. To remove holes left by the skewer, gently run a small knife or spatula over the top of each one.

Tips & Variations

• For a smoother dipping experience, make sure the chocolate is completely melted but not too hot to avoid melting the peanut butter balls.
• Try using crunchy peanut butter for added texture or sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top before chilling for a sweet-salty twist.
• If you don’t have coconut oil, you can omit it; it just helps the chocolate be a bit glossier and smoother.

Storage

Store buckeyes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. They can also be frozen for longer storage; thaw in the fridge before serving. To soften slightly before eating, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?

Yes, but natural peanut butter may have more oil separation, which can affect the texture of the buckeyes. Stir well before measuring and consider chilling the mixture longer if it feels too soft.

Why do my buckeyes crack when I dip them?

Cracking usually happens if the peanut butter balls are too cold or the chocolate is too thick or cool. To prevent this, ensure the balls are firm but not frozen, and dip them in chocolate that is smooth and at room temperature.

Classic Buckeyes: Peanut Butter and Chocolate Candies Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 137 reviews

• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 buckeyes 1x

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Description

Buckeyes are a classic no-bake treat featuring creamy peanut butter centers partially dipped in rich chocolate, resembling the nut of the buckeye tree. These sweet, bite-sized candies offer a perfect balance of salty and sweet flavors and a delightful creamy texture, making them an irresistible holiday favorite or anytime snack.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Peanut Butter Mixture

• 1 cup smooth peanut butter (240g)
• 5 tbsp unsalted butter (70g)
• 2 cups powdered sugar (240g)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (5mL)

Chocolate Coating

• 2 cups semisweet chocolate (340g)
• 2 tbsp coconut oil (30mL, optional)

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Instructions

1. Cream the Peanut Butter and Butter: In a mixing bowl, cream together the smooth peanut butter and unsalted butter along with the vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
2. Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar to the peanut butter mixture, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl and mix again to ensure even consistency.
3. Form Peanut Butter Balls: Pinch off tablespoon-sized pieces of the dough and roll them into smooth balls, approximately 20 grams each, ensuring they are uniform in size.
4. Chill the Peanut Butter Balls: Place the peanut butter balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and chill them in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes until firm enough to handle.
5. Melt Chocolate and Coconut Oil: In a medium bowl, combine the semisweet chocolate and optional coconut oil. Microwave at 50% power in short intervals, stirring frequently until fully melted and smooth. Allow the chocolate to cool to room temperature.
6. Dip the Peanut Butter Balls: Using a skewer or toothpick, carefully dip each chilled peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, leaving a small portion of the peanut butter exposed to create the characteristic buckeye look.
7. Chill to Set: Place the dipped buckeyes back onto the baking sheet and chill in the refrigerator until the chocolate coating is firm. To remove any holes left by the skewers, gently smooth the tops with a small knife or spatula.

Notes

• For a smoother chocolate coating, coconut oil helps thin the chocolate and adds shine but is optional.
• Be sure to chill the peanut butter balls thoroughly before dipping to prevent melting when coated with warm chocolate.
• Store buckeyes in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain firmness and freshness.
• Use a toothpick or skewer carefully to achieve the signature buckeye look with a small exposed peanut butter spot.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes (melting chocolate)
• Category: Dessert, Candy
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Buckeyes, peanut butter candy, no-bake dessert, chocolate peanut butter balls, holiday treats