Peanut Butter Buckeyes are a no-bake classic, combining a creamy peanut butter center with a glossy chocolate coating. Perfect for holidays or anytime you crave a sweet and salty treat!
Did You Know? Buckeyes are named after the nut of the Ohio buckeye tree. This treat's signature design, with its golden center peeking through the chocolate, mimics the look of the tree’s nut, making it a beloved snack in the Midwest.
Yield
30–36 buckeyes
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups creamy natural peanut butter
1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 1/2 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
12 ounces dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher), chopped
1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for a shinier coating)
1/2 cup very finely crushed fresh peanuts to sprinkle on top
Instructions
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In a large mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy.
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Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until the dough is firm and not sticky.
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Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes, or until firm.
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In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate and coconut oil (if using) over a double boiler or in the microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
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Using a toothpick, dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, leaving a small portion of the top uncovered to resemble a buckeye. Let excess chocolate drip off before placing the buckeyes back onto the baking sheet.
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Smooth over the toothpick hole with your finger or a small spatula. Carefully sprinkle the finely crushed peanuts just on the peanut butter part of the buckeye.
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Chill the buckeyes in the refrigerator for about 1 hour, or until the chocolate is firm.
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Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Nutritional Information (Per Buckeye)
Calories: 125, Protein: 2g, Carbohydrates: 12g, Fiber: 1g, Net Carbohydrates: 11g, Fat: 8g, Saturated Fat: 4g, Cholesterol: 5mg, Sodium: 35mg, Sugars: 10g, Glycemic Index: Medium
How These Peanut Butter Buckeyes Will Look and Taste
These buckeyes are perfectly round with a shiny chocolate coating and a creamy peanut butter center peeking through the top. The sweet and salty combination makes them irresistible, with a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
- Use natural peanut butter for a creamier texture and cleaner ingredient list.
- To make dipping easier, refrigerate or freeze the balls before coating in chocolate.
- Add a pinch of sea salt to the peanut butter mixture for an extra flavor boost.
- Substitute milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter coating.
- Use a skewer or fork if you don’t have toothpicks for dipping.
- Melt leftover chocolate and drizzle over cookies or fruit to minimize waste.
- Package buckeyes in festive tins for an affordable, homemade gift.
- Double the recipe for larger gatherings—they disappear quickly!
- Keep hands clean while rolling by dusting your palms with powdered sugar.
- Freeze buckeyes for up to 3 months and enjoy them as needed.
Let’s Learn About Peanut Butter in Buckeyes
The creamy peanut butter center is the heart of this treat. Choosing natural peanut butter ensures a rich flavor and fewer additives. If using natural peanut butter, mix it well before using to incorporate the oils. Some people add graham cracker crumbs or rice cereal for a different texture, but the traditional recipe sticks to pure peanut butter for its iconic smoothness.