Introduction

Buckeyes are a classic no-bake treat featuring creamy peanut butter centers partially dipped in rich chocolate, resembling the nut of the Ohio buckeye tree. These sweet bites are perfect for satisfying peanut butter cravings with a delightful balance of flavors and textures.

A white plate holds a neat stack of smooth, round chocolate-covered treats with a soft, light brown peanut butter filling visible on the top of each piece. The chocolates have a shiny, dark brown outer shell that glistens gently, surrounding the creamy, slightly textured peanut butter layer that fills the top center. In the blurry background, there are two white bowls, one filled with peanut butter and the other with small round chocolate pieces, all placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups creamy peanut butter (not natural)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 cups confectioners’ sugar (powdered sugar)

1/4 teaspoon sea salt or kosher salt
12 oz semisweet chocolate chips (such as Ghirardelli)

11.5 oz milk chocolate chips (such as Ghirardelli)
1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable shortening

Instructions

Step 1: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.

Step 2: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and peanut butter together using a hand mixer or stand mixer with the paddle attachment until the mixture lightens in color and becomes silky smooth.
Step 3: Add the vanilla extract and salt, mixing until fully combined.
Step 4: Slowly add the powdered sugar in 1/3 cup increments, mixing well between additions. The dough should become thick enough to roll into balls. If needed, add a bit more powdered sugar to reach this consistency.

Step 5: Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and roll them into smooth balls with clean hands. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 6: Insert a toothpick into the center of each ball and refrigerate for 15 minutes to 1 hour to firm up.
Step 7: Meanwhile, melt both the semisweet and milk chocolate chips together with the coconut oil in a double boiler or microwave, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Step 8: Remove the peanut butter balls from the refrigerator. Holding each by the toothpick, dip the balls into the melted chocolate, covering about 80% of each to create the signature Buckeye appearance.
Step 9: Place the dipped buckeyes back onto the baking sheet until all are coated and the chocolate has set.
Step 10: Once the peanut butter has softened to room temperature, gently twist the toothpicks out of each buckeye.

Step 11: Cover the small hole left by the toothpick by smoothing the peanut butter gently with your finger.
Step 12: Serve immediately or store as desired.

Tips & Variations

Use creamy peanut butter for a smooth texture; natural peanut butter can be too oily and affect consistency.

If the dough is too sticky, gradually add a little more powdered sugar until it firms up enough to roll.
Try dipping only in semisweet chocolate for a less sweet, richer flavor.
For a glossy finish, stir a small amount of coconut oil into the melted chocolate before dipping.

Chill the dipped buckeyes again if the chocolate softens during handling to help them set faster.

Storage

Store buckeyes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For softer centers, they can be kept at room temperature for a few days but should be consumed within a week. Reheat slightly or let come to room temperature before serving if refrigerated.

How to Serve

A close-up of several round chocolate-covered peanut butter bites placed on a white marbled surface, each piece having two layers: a smooth dark brown chocolate outer shell covering a thick, slightly rough-textured, light golden peanut butter filling inside. One piece is bitten, showing the dense peanut butter center with a few small bits of chocolate mixed in. Scattered dark chocolate chips are around the bites, and a white bowl is blurred in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter for buckeyes?

Natural peanut butter has more oil and can make the dough too soft and oily, making it difficult to shape and dip. It’s best to use creamy, processed peanut butter for the right texture.

How do I prevent the chocolate from melting off the buckeyes?

Allow the peanut butter balls to chill well before dipping, use a toothpick for easy handling, and let the chocolate fully set on a cool surface. Refrigerating the dipped buckeyes again helps the chocolate harden and stay in place.