Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Buckeye Balls are a fun, easy-to-make treat that combines two classic flavors—peanut butter and chocolate. The soft, creamy peanut butter center is perfectly complemented by the rich chocolate coating, creating a balanced sweetness in every bite. They’re simple to make with only a few ingredients, and they require no baking, making them a quick and convenient snack or gift idea. Whether you’re a peanut butter lover or a chocolate fan, these bite-sized balls will satisfy your cravings and bring joy to any occasion!
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or coconut oil
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
1. Prepare the peanut butter mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, powdered sugar, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Mix together until the ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth and creamy. You may need to use your hands to ensure everything is well combined.
2. Shape the balls:
- Once the peanut butter mixture is ready, scoop out small portions (about 1 tablespoon) and roll them into balls. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat, leaving a little space between each ball.
3. Chill the peanut butter balls:
- Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and chill the peanut butter balls for about 30 minutes to an hour, or until they are firm and set. This will make them easier to dip in chocolate.
4. Melt the chocolate:
- In a heatproof bowl, melt the semisweet chocolate chips and vegetable oil (or coconut oil) together. You can do this either in the microwave in 20-30 second intervals, stirring in between, or by using a double boiler on the stovetop. Stir until the chocolate is completely smooth.
5. Dip the peanut butter balls:
- Using a toothpick or fork, dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, leaving a small circle of the peanut butter exposed at the top (this gives them the classic “buckeye” appearance). Gently tap the fork on the side of the bowl to remove any excess chocolate.
- Place the chocolate-dipped balls back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Chill again:
- Once all the balls are coated in chocolate, return the baking sheet to the refrigerator and chill for another 30 minutes or until the chocolate has hardened.
7. Serve and enjoy:
- Once the chocolate has set, the Buckeye Balls are ready to be served! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 20-30 balls (depending on size)
- Total time: 2 hours
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Chill time: 1 hour (plus another 30 minutes for the chocolate to set)
Variations
- Add a sprinkle of sea salt: For a sweet-salty contrast, lightly sprinkle a bit of sea salt on top of the chocolate before it hardens.
- Use milk chocolate: If you prefer a sweeter, creamier taste, use milk chocolate instead of semisweet chocolate for the coating.
- Add crushed nuts: You can mix chopped peanuts or other nuts into the peanut butter filling for added crunch and flavor.
- Make them vegan: Use vegan butter, and opt for dairy-free chocolate chips to make this treat vegan-friendly.
- Try a flavored peanut butter: If you’re feeling adventurous, try using flavored peanut butter, such as honey roasted or cinnamon peanut butter, for a twist on the classic.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store Buckeye Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. They can also be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: There is no need to reheat Buckeye Balls, as they’re best enjoyed chilled. Just take them out of the fridge and enjoy whenever you like!
FAQs
Can I make Buckeye Balls ahead of time?
Yes, Buckeye Balls can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer a bit of texture in the filling. It will still work well for this recipe, just expect a little more crunch in every bite!
Can I use other types of chocolate?
Yes, you can use dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate, depending on your preference. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness accordingly if you switch to a different type of chocolate.
Why are the peanut butter balls chilled before dipping?
Chilling the peanut butter balls helps them firm up, making them easier to dip in chocolate and reducing the chance of the balls falling apart during the process.
Can I make these without using butter?
If you prefer, you can skip the butter and use a bit more peanut butter instead. The butter helps to make the filling smoother, but the balls will still hold together well without it.
Conclusion
Buckeye Balls are a delicious and easy-to-make treat that combines creamy peanut butter and smooth chocolate for the perfect indulgent snack. Whether you’re making them for a party, holiday, or just as a treat for yourself, these bite-sized balls are always a hit. With their simple ingredients and no-bake preparation, Buckeye Balls are a great way to enjoy a sweet, homemade snack in no time.
Print
Buckeye Balls
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 20-30 balls
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Buckeye Balls are no-bake peanut butter balls coated in rich chocolate, inspired by the Ohio State candy. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, holiday gifts, or anytime you want a sweet indulgence.
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or coconut oil
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine peanut butter, powdered sugar, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy, using your hands if needed.
- Scoop out small portions of the mixture (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll them into balls. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Chill the peanut butter balls in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to an hour until firm.
- In a heatproof bowl, melt the chocolate chips with vegetable oil or coconut oil. Stir until smooth.
- Using a toothpick or fork, dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, leaving a small circle of peanut butter exposed at the top. Tap off any excess chocolate and place the balls back on the baking sheet.
- Chill the chocolate-coated peanut butter balls for another 30 minutes or until the chocolate is set.
- Serve and enjoy! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Notes
- For a sweet-salty contrast, sprinkle a little sea salt on top of the chocolate before it hardens.
- Use milk chocolate instead of semisweet for a creamier flavor.
- Mix chopped peanuts or other nuts into the filling for extra crunch.
- To make them vegan, use dairy-free chocolate and vegan butter.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
