Buckeyes combine two beloved flavors—peanut butter and chocolate—into a decadent, easy-to-make dessert. They’re rich, sweet, and satisfyingly creamy on the inside with a smooth chocolate coating on the outside. No baking is required, and they’re ideal for making ahead. Whether for holiday trays or a year-round indulgence, these treats are always a hit.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
creamy peanut butter unsalted butter vanilla extract powdered sugar semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips shortening or coconut oil (optional, for smoother dipping)
Directions
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla until smooth.
Gradually mix in the powdered sugar until a thick, moldable dough forms.
Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Chill the balls in the refrigerator or freezer for at least 30 minutes until firm.
Melt the chocolate chips with shortening or coconut oil (if using) in a heatproof bowl over a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
Using a toothpick, dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, leaving a small circle of peanut butter exposed on top.
Place the dipped buckeyes back on the baking sheet and remove the toothpick, smoothing the hole if desired.
Chill again until the chocolate is fully set.
Store in an airtight container until ready to serve.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 30 buckeyes. Prep time: 30 minutes Chill time: 30 minutes Total time: 1 hour
Variations
Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
Add a pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate for a salty-sweet twist.
Swap chocolate chips for white or milk chocolate for a different flavor.
Add mini chocolate chips or rice cereal to the filling for extra crunch.
Make them bite-sized truffles by fully dipping in chocolate.
Storage/Reheating
Store buckeyes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving. No reheating is necessary.
FAQs
Why are they called Buckeyes?
They resemble the nut from the buckeye tree, the state tree of Ohio, which has a dark outer shell and a light brown center.
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Natural peanut butter tends to separate and may not hold the shape as well. It’s best to use a no-stir, creamy variety.
Why is shortening or coconut oil added to the chocolate?
It helps thin the chocolate and creates a smoother coating for easier dipping.
Can I make buckeyes ahead of time?
Yes, they’re perfect for making ahead and storing in the fridge or freezer.
How do I fix sticky dough that’s hard to roll?
Add a bit more powdered sugar until the dough is firm enough to roll into balls.
Can I fully coat the peanut butter balls in chocolate?
Absolutely! While traditional buckeyes are partially dipped, full coating turns them into chocolate-peanut butter truffles.
How long do buckeyes last?
They last up to 2 weeks refrigerated and up to 3 months in the freezer.
Can I use almond butter instead?
Yes, but the flavor and texture will be slightly different. Make sure the almond butter is thick and not too oily.
What’s the best way to dip them?
Use a toothpick inserted into the center of each ball for easy dipping and to maintain the signature buckeye look.
Are buckeyes gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all ingredients used are certified gluten-free, especially the chocolate chips and powdered sugar.
Conclusion
Buckeyes are a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing treat with the unbeatable combination of peanut butter and chocolate. Easy to prepare and perfect for storing or gifting, they’re a staple on dessert trays, especially around the holidays. Whether you grew up with them or are trying them for the first time, Buckeyes are a simple and delicious homemade candy everyone will love.
Buckeyes are classic no-bake peanut butter and chocolate candies that resemble the nut of the Ohio buckeye tree. With a creamy peanut butter center and a rich chocolate coating, they’re a nostalgic and irresistible treat perfect for holidays or anytime cravings strike.
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
2 cups semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
1 tbsp shortening or coconut oil (optional, for smoother dipping)
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Gradually mix in the powdered sugar until a thick dough forms.
Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Chill the balls in the refrigerator or freezer for at least 30 minutes until firm.
Melt the chocolate chips with shortening or coconut oil (if using) in a double boiler or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
Insert a toothpick into each peanut butter ball and dip into the melted chocolate, leaving a small circle of peanut butter visible on top.
Place dipped buckeyes back on the baking sheet and remove the toothpick. Smooth the hole if desired.
Chill again until the chocolate is fully set.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Notes
Use no-stir peanut butter for the best texture and shape retention.Chilling the dough makes dipping easier and prevents melting.For a twist, add sea salt on top or fully coat for a truffle-like version.Freeze for long-term storage and thaw in the fridge before serving.Make sure chocolate and powdered sugar are gluten-free if needed.
