You can never go wrong with chocolate and peanut butter together! These peanut butter buckeyes aka buckeye cookies are perfectly sweet, creamy and coated in a crisp chocolate shell. They are popable and addicting and make the perfect addition to any dessert table! Plus these buckeye peanut butter balls are great to make ahead. Simply store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or in the freezer for 3 months! They are the perfect bite size dessert when you are craving something sweet. These buckeyes are one of the easiest candies to make. Only a few ingredients and a couple minutes of prep are all you need to throw these together. Plus you don’t need to worry about turning on the oven, stove or double boiler!
What are buckeyes?
Chocolate peanut butter buckeyes are inspired by the nuts of the Ohio state tree. They are similar to traditional peanut balls but instead of being dipped all the way the top is left un dipped so the peanut butter filling is showing. If you love peanut butter cups you will love these chocolate covered peanut butter balls!
Ingredients in Buckeyes
Butter: You can use either unsalted or salted butter in this peanut butter buckeyes recipe. Just make sure to either omit or add salt depending on which type of butter you are using. Creamy peanut butter: I prefer to use creamy peanut butter in these no bake peanut butter balls. However crunchy can be used for some crunch and texture. Powdered sugar: Gives the peanut butter buckeyes the perfect amount of sweetness. Vanilla: Is added for flavor! Chocolate: I use semi sweet chocolate chips. However dark chocolate would be amazing in this! Coconut oil: Is added to the melted chocolate to create a crunchy shell coating on the outside. If you don’t have coconut oil vegetable shortening can be used. I prefer to use coconut oil as a healthier alternative to shortening.
How to make Buckeyes
Make the peanut butter filling: Start by adding butter and peanut butter to a stand mixer with the paddle attachment. Beat until smooth and creamy, 2-3 minutes. Add vanilla, powdered sugar and salt and mix until combined.
Roll into balls / chill: Roll into balls and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place in the freezer for 30 minutes to chill.
Dip in chocolate: Add chocolate and coconut oil to a small bowl and microwave for 30 second intervals until smooth and fully melted. Place a toothpick into the center of the peanut butter ball and dip one at a time in the chocolate making sure to leave some of the peanut butter filling exposed.
Allow any excess chocolate to drip off and place back on the baking sheet. Use your fingers to pinch the center to remove the toothpick hole. Chill: Once more in the fridge or freezer to set then enjoy!
Can you use natural peanut butter for buckeyes?
I prefer to make this recipe with creamy Jiff or peter pan peanut butter. It has the perfect creamy consistency which is perfect for these buckeyes. I do not recommend using nut butters as they are drier and will make the peanut butter filling crumbly.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Store: Leftover buckeyes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Freeze: Up to 3 months in an airtight container! Eat frozen or let them to come to room temperature before serving.
More peanut butter desserts to try:
Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie Flourless Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies Peanut Butter Chocolate Skillet Cookie Chocolate Brownies with Peanut Butter Frosting Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars
