This recipe is for Buckeye Balls, a classic and irresistible no-bake treat that resembles the nut of the Ohio Buckeye tree. These candies feature a creamy and sweet peanut butter center that is partially dipped in rich milk or dark chocolate, leaving a circle of peanut butter exposed at the top. The combination of the smooth, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate and the soft, slightly salty peanut butter filling is a timeless pairing that makes these Buckeye Balls a favorite for holidays, parties, or simply as a delicious homemade candy. The peanut butter center is typically made with creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and softened butter, creating a dough-like consistency that is easy to roll into small balls. Some variations might include a touch of vanilla extract or a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor. The chocolate coating is usually made with melted chocolate chips or chopped chocolate, often with a small amount of shortening or vegetable oil added to create a smoother, more dippable consistency. The balls are dipped, leaving a portion of the peanut butter exposed, and then set aside to allow the chocolate to harden. The exposed peanut butter top is what gives these candies their distinctive Buckeye appearance. Buckeye Balls are relatively easy to make and require no baking, making them a fun and simple treat to prepare at home. They are often enjoyed chilled and can be stored in the refrigerator for several days. The image shows a white plate filled with numerous round candies. Each candy consists of a light brown, slightly textured peanut butter ball that has been partially dipped in a smooth, medium-brown chocolate coating, leaving a portion of the peanut butter exposed at the top. Some of the candies have a sprinkle of light brown crumbs on the exposed peanut butter.
The texture of Buckeye Balls is a delightful contrast between the smooth, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate coating and the soft, creamy, and slightly dense peanut butter center. The optional sprinkle adds a bit of crumbly texture.
The flavor profile is a classic combination of rich, sweet chocolate and salty, nutty peanut butter, creating a balanced and highly enjoyable taste.
Buckeye Balls are a perfect no-bake treat for holidays, parties, or any time you crave a simple and delicious homemade candy.
The preparation involves making a peanut butter dough, rolling it into balls, chilling them, and then partially dipping them in melted chocolate.
Ingredients:
For the Peanut Butter Balls:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt (optional, especially if using unsalted peanut butter)
For the Chocolate Coating:
- 12 ounces milk chocolate chips (or semi-sweet or dark chocolate)
- 1 tablespoon shortening or vegetable oil (optional, for smoother melting)
- Optional: Crushed graham crackers or other crumbs for topping
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or sturdy spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or wax paper
- Microwave-safe bowl (for melting chocolate)
- Fork or toothpick (for dipping)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and peanut butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt (if using). The mixture should form a stiff dough.
- Roll into Balls: Roll the peanut butter dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or wax paper.
- Chill the Balls: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and chill the peanut butter balls for at least 30 minutes. This will help them firm up and make them easier to dip in chocolate.
- Melt the Chocolate: While the peanut butter balls are chilling, melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the chocolate is smooth and completely melted. If the chocolate seems too thick, stir in the shortening or vegetable oil until smooth.
- Dip the Balls: Remove the chilled peanut butter balls from the refrigerator. Using a fork or toothpick, dip each ball into the melted chocolate, leaving a portion of the top uncovered (this is the characteristic “Buckeye”). Allow any excess chocolate to drip off.
- Add Topping (Optional): If desired, sprinkle the exposed peanut butter tops with crushed graham crackers or other crumbs before the chocolate sets.
- Set the Chocolate: Place the chocolate-dipped balls back onto the parchment paper or wax paper-lined baking sheet. Allow the chocolate to harden completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator for a quicker set.
- Store: Once the chocolate has set, store the Buckeye Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best enjoyed chilled.
Enjoy these classic and delicious Buckeye Balls! Their simple preparation and irresistible flavor combination make them a perfect homemade treat.