Dive into the sweet charm of this buckeyes recipe — creamy peanut butter balls coated in luscious chocolate. A delightful and easy-to-make dessert that hits all the right notes.
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This buckeyes recipe is a crowd-favorite treat that boasts the perfect blend of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate.
These delightful peanut butter balls, often known as buckeye balls, offer a quick and easy homemade dessert option that’s both timeless and satisfying.
Crafting these treats requires minimal effort, making them an ideal choice for busy schedules or last-minute gatherings.
With their appealing appearance and irresistible flavors, buckeyes are the best way to bring smiles to any occasion. From family get-togethers to holiday celebrations, these treats always steal the spotlight.
The simplicity of the recipe doesn’t compromise the amazing taste.
Next time you crave a dessert that’s both quick and satisfying, look no further than these peanut butter balls.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen newbie, crafting these peanut butter buckeyes is a breeze that guarantees the best results.
How to Make This Buckeyes Recipe
A full printable version of this recipe with ingredient measurements is available at the bottom of this post.
STEP ONE: Blend together creamy peanut butter, softened butter, and a dash of vanilla extract in the bowl of a stand mixer.
STEP TWO: With the mixer on low speed, slowly add powdered sugar to the mix. Watch as it gradually transforms into a cohesive ball around the paddle.
STEP THREE: Scoop out bite-sized portions, about a tablespoon each, and roll them into smooth balls. Lay them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and chill in the freezer for 30 minutes.
STEP FOUR: Melt dark chocolate and coconut oil together in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals. Stir the mixture after each interval, microwaving for a total of 1 to 2 minutes until smooth.
STEP FIVE: Poke each peanut butter ball with a toothpick and dip it into the melted chocolate, but make sure that a small peek of peanut butter is exposed at the top. Place on parchment paper to set, then repeat this process with the rest of the peanut butter buckeyes.
STEP SIX: Place the buckeye candy into the fridge for approximately 15 minutes until fully set.
Tips for the Best Buckeye Balls
- Use softened butter — It’s the secret to a luscious texture. Bring to room temperature before blending to ensure there are no lumps.
- Choose a no-stir peanut butter. It infuses that smooth, classic nutty flavor and provides a fudge-like consistency. I don’t recommend using natural peanut butter for this buckeyes recipe.
- Don’t get impatient when melting the chocolate. Higher heat will only cause it to burn or clump, which prevents it from coating the peanut butter balls properly.
Variations for Buckeye Candy
- You can try different types of chocolate for this recipe, like white chocolate or milk chocolate, though dark chocolate is my favorite!
- Add a coating of crushed pretzels to the freshly dipped buckeye balls, creating a delicious mix of sweet and savory.
- To make this dessert dairy-free, simply use an oil-based butter and make sure the dark chocolate doesn’t have any milk in it.
- Add sprinkles on top of the chocolate on the peanut butter buckeyes for a sweet crunch! This can also be done with all types of nuts — I would recommend crushed peanuts.
More Peanut Butter Recipes
- Easy Peanut Butter Balls
- 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
- Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies
- Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies
- 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Frosting
- Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies
- 4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Blossoms
- Peanut Butter Balls With Graham Crackers
Why is Coconut Oil Used with Chocolate for Coating?
Coconut oil helps thin the chocolate for smooth dipping and creates a glossy finish on dipped buckeye balls.
Without it, the chocolate can harden up in certain spots, causing it to flake off of the peanut butter balls.
What’s the Best Way to Store Buckeye Balls?
It’s best to store your buckeye balls in an airtight container. From there, you have two options — I recommend storing in the fridge if you live in warmer weather or at room temperature for softer peanut butter buckeyes.
You can also freeze them for up to 3 months! Simply thaw on the counter for a quick sweet treat.
How Do I Prevent the Chocolate from Cracking While Dipping?
Make sure the peanut butter balls are cold from being chilled in the fridge, and the chocolate isn’t too hot. The chilled peanut butter balls make it easy to dip without falling apart in the chocolate.
When coating them, slowly dip them, allowing excess chocolate to drip off before setting them down.
Other Easy Dessert Recipes You’ll Love:
- 3 Ingredient No Bake Cheesecake
- Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies
- 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Oatmeal Balls
- Peanut Butt Hot Cocoa Balls
- Chocolate Kiss Cookies
- Snickerdoodle Recipe
- Apple Crisp Mini Cheesecake
Easy Buckeyes Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 ¼ cups creamy peanut butter
- 4 tablespoons salted butter softened
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 8 ounces dark chocolate finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil
Instructions
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the creamy peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract.
- With the mixer on low speed, slowly add the powdered sugar. Continue mixing on low speed until the mixture comes together in a ball around the paddle.
- Scoop out 1 tablespoon-sized portions and roll them into smooth balls. Place the peanut butter balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and transfer them to the freezer to chill for 30 minutes.
- Add the dark chocolate and coconut oil to a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each interval, until the chocolate is melted and smooth– about 1-2 minutes total.
- Working one at a time, stick a toothpick into the top of a peanut butter ball and then dip it into the melted chocolate, leaving a little bit of peanut butter exposed at the top. Then place the buckeye back on the baking sheet and repeat with the remaining buckeyes.
- Once all of the buckeyes have been dipped in chocolate, return the pan to the fridge until the chocolate has set– about 15 minutes. Then transfer the buckeyes to an airtight container and store in the fridge until ready to enjoy, or up to five days.
