Buckeye Balls are a classic, no-bake treat featuring a rich peanut butter center dipped in smooth chocolate. Named after the nut from Ohio’s state tree, they’re a perfect combination of chocolate and peanut butter that melts in your mouth. Great for holiday desserts or a quick sweet fix!
📋 Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter 🥜
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened 🧈
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 🌿
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar 🍬
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips 🍫
- 2 tablespoons shortening or coconut oil 🥥
📝 Instructions:
1. Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling:
- Mix ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Add powdered sugar:
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until the dough is firm and holds its shape. If the mixture is too sticky, add more powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time.
2. Shape the Balls:
- Form balls:
- Roll the peanut butter mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with wax paper. Freeze for about 15-20 minutes to firm up.
3. Melt the Chocolate:
- Melt chocolate:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and shortening (or coconut oil). Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted.
4. Dip the Balls:
- Insert toothpicks:
- Insert a toothpick into each peanut butter ball for easy dipping.
- Dip in chocolate:
- Dip each ball into the melted chocolate, leaving a small portion of the peanut butter exposed at the top to resemble a buckeye. Place the dipped balls back on the wax paper-lined baking sheet.
- Remove toothpicks:
- Carefully twist out the toothpicks. Smooth over the holes with your fingers or a small knife if desired.
5. Chill and Serve:
- Chill:
- Refrigerate the buckeye balls for at least 30 minutes to set the chocolate.
- Serve:
- Once the chocolate is firm, transfer the buckeye balls to an airtight container for storage. Enjoy!
🍽️ Tips:
- Storage: Store buckeye balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezing: You can freeze buckeye balls for up to 3 months. Just let them thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Chocolate alternatives: Dark chocolate or white chocolate can be used for dipping if you prefer a different flavor profile.
⏱️ Preparation Time: 30 minutes
⏱️ Chilling Time: 45 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 24 buckeye balls
🔥 Calories: Approximately 130 kcal per piece
These Buckeye Balls are creamy, chocolatey, and sure to be a hit with anyone who loves the peanut butter-chocolate combination! 🥜🍫