Description

Classic Buckeyes are a delightful no-bake candy combining creamy peanut butter, butter, powdered sugar, and rich semi-sweet chocolate. These sweet treats feature a signature look with a circle of peanut butter exposed on top, resembling the buckeye nut. Perfect for holidays, parties, or anytime a nostalgic sweet craving hits, these bite-sized candies are simple to prepare and sure to impress.

Ingredients

Scale

Peanut Butter Mixture

1 stick (1/2 cup) real butter, softened
1 jar (16 oz) Jif peanut butter
Powdered sugar (enough to achieve a rollable consistency, approximately 2-3 cups)
1 tsp vanilla extract

Chocolate Coating

1 bag (12 oz) semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 stick (1/2 cup) real butter, softened (for melting with chocolate)

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Instructions

Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, peanut butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well until the mixture reaches a rollable consistency that holds its shape without crumbling.
Form the Balls: Roll the peanut butter mixture into small balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Chill: Freeze the baking sheet for 15-20 minutes or until the peanut butter balls are firm to the touch.
Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and butter stick. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each interval, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
Dip the Buckeyes: Using a toothpick, dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, submerging all but a small circle on top to create the classic buckeye appearance. Gently tap the toothpick against the edge of the bowl to remove excess chocolate.
Smooth the Hole: Place the dipped buckeyes back on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Optionally use the back of a spoon to smooth over the toothpick hole for a cleaner look.
Set the Chocolate: Let the chocolate set either at room temperature or refrigerate the buckeyes until firm, about 30 minutes.
Optional Decoration: Drizzle additional melted chocolate over the buckeyes or sprinkle with festive toppings like crushed nuts or colored sprinkles for extra flair.
Storage: Store the buckeyes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze them to extend shelf life.

Notes

Use real butter for best flavor and texture in the peanut butter mixture and chocolate coating.
Chilling the peanut butter balls before dipping helps the chocolate coat evenly without melting the candy.
If the chocolate thickens while dipping, reheat it gently in 15-second bursts.
Store buckeyes refrigerated especially in warmer climates to prevent melting.
The exposed peanut butter circle is key to authentic buckeyes—take care not to fully cover the balls when dipping.
Powdered sugar quantity may vary slightly depending on peanut butter brand and consistency; add gradually.