Buckeyes

Creamy peanut butter balls dipped halfway in rich chocolate—these no-bake treats are a beloved Midwest classic, named after the nut of the Ohio buckeye tree. With a soft, fudgy center and just the right amount of sweet-salty balance, they’re impossible to eat just one.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just candy—it’s a taste of tradition. Buckeyes are a holiday staple, potluck favorite, and college game-day treat (especially in Ohio!). They require no baking, just mixing, chilling, and dipping. The result? A decadent bite that blends smooth peanut butter with a crisp chocolate shell—leaving one small circle uncovered so it truly looks like a buckeye nut.

Perfect for:

• Holiday gifting and cookie exchanges
• Make-ahead desserts
• Freezer-friendly snacks
• Peanut butter lovers who crave something nostalgic

Ingredients

For the Peanut Butter Balls

• 1½ cups (380g) creamy peanut butter (use natural or conventional—just stir well if oily)
• ½ cup (1 stick / 115g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 4 cups (480g) confectioners’ sugar, sifted (lumps ruin texture!)

For the Chocolate Coating

• 6 oz (170g) semi-sweet chocolate chips or bar, chopped
• 2 tbsp (24g) shortening (like Crisco; creates smooth, glossy dip)

For Prep & Serving

• Wax paper or parchment paper, for lining
• Wooden toothpicks or lollipop sticks
• Optional: Sprinkles, crushed nuts, or sea salt for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep & Chill Pan

• Line a baking sheet with wax paper or parchment. Set aside in the fridge to chill slightly—this helps set the balls faster.

2. Mix the Dough

In a large bowl:

• Combine peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
• Gradually mix in sifted confectioners’ sugar, 1 cup at a time, until fully incorporated.
• Use your hands to knead into a smooth, stiff dough—it should hold its shape without sticking.

3. Roll & Chill the Balls

• Scoop about 2 teaspoons of dough per ball (~1 inch diameter).
• Roll into smooth spheres.
• Insert a wooden toothpick into each ball near the top.
• Place on prepared pan and refrigerate at least 1 hour (or freeze 20 mins) until firm.

4. Melt the Chocolate

In a metal or heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water (double boiler):

• Combine chocolate and shortening.
• Stir occasionally as it melts—don’t let water touch the bottom of the bowl.
• Once smooth and glossy, remove from heat.

5. Dip & Finish

Remove chilled balls from fridge.

• Hold toothpick and dip each ball into melted chocolate, coating about ¾ of the way up.
• Leave a small round circle of peanut butter exposed at the top—this is what makes it a true “buckeye.”
• Return to wax paper with chocolate side down to prevent pooling.
• Gently remove toothpick and use your fingertip to smooth the hole left behind.

Repeat with remaining balls.

6. Set & Serve

• Refrigerate 30 minutes until chocolate is completely set.
• Store in layers separated by wax paper.

Serve chilled or at cool room temperature.

You Must Know

• Sift the powdered sugar —lumps make the dough uneven.
• Use real butter and peanut butter —margarine or low-fat versions don’t blend well.
• Don’t skip chilling —soft centers won’t hold during dipping.
• Shortening keeps chocolate smooth —prevents cracking and streaks.
• Tastes better the next day!

Storage Tips

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
• Freeze for up to 3 months —place in freezer bags with parchment between layers. Thaw in fridge before serving.
• Keep refrigerated in warm climates—they melt easily!

Ingredient Substitutions

Serving Suggestions

• Package in festive tins or cellophane bags tied with ribbon.
• Great for care packages or teacher gifts.
• Double the batch and freeze half for future comfort.
• Serve on a platter with other candies and cookies.

Cultural Context

Born in Ohio and named after the state tree, the buckeye nut, this candy has become a symbol of pride and tradition—especially among fans of Ohio State University. Found at holiday tables, bake sales, and tailgates alike, it honors simple ingredients transformed into something deeply satisfying.

Pro Tips

• Double the recipe? Yes—perfect for crowds. Use two pans or work in batches.
• Want more crunch? Add chopped peanuts to the peanut butter mixture.
• Make ahead: Assemble unbaked balls and refrigerate 1–2 days ahead. Dip when ready.
• Label your dish: People will ask for the recipe.
• Say “ready?” before serving —it’s part of the ritual.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use milk chocolate instead?
A: Absolutely! Many prefer it for a sweeter finish.

Q: Why did my chocolate crack?
A: Likely due to cold balls or no shortening. Let balls sit 5 mins before dipping.

Q: Is this gluten-free?
A: Yes—if using GF-certified powdered sugar and checking labels.

Q: Can I dip them in white chocolate too?
A: Yes! Try drizzling white chocolate over the peanut butter top for decoration.

Q: Can I make mini versions?
A: Yes! Make smaller balls and use cake pop sticks—great for parties.

Allergy Information

Contains: dairy (butter), peanuts (peanut butter), wheat (in some powdered sugars—verify label).
Gluten-free option: Use certified GF sugar.
Nut-free: Not unless using sunflower seed butter and verifying all ingredients.
Always check labels—especially on chocolate, peanut butter, and confectioners’ sugar.

Nutrition Facts (Per Buckeye – Approximate)

Based on 36 servings

• Calories: 130
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 9g
• Protein: 2g
• Sodium: 60mg

These candies don’t whisper. They sit quietly in the tin, round and tempting, saying everything a great treat should: “Take one. Share some. This is good.” That’s how the best ones begin—not with silence, but with peanut butter, patience, and someone who says, “Let’s make it together.”