Description
Buckeyes are classic American no-bake treats featuring creamy peanut butter and cream cheese centers partially dipped in rich melted chocolate, resembling the nut of the Ohio buckeye tree. These sweet, perfectly balanced confections offer a delightful combination of smooth, salty, and sweet flavors, ideal for gifting or enjoying as a nostalgic snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Peanut Butter Mixture
- 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter (not natural-style)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 3 1/2 to 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
Chocolate Coating
- 8 ounces semisweet or dark chocolate, finely chopped or chocolate chips
- 2 teaspoons coconut oil
Instructions
- Mix the peanut butter base: In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, beat together the peanut butter, softened butter, cream cheese, vanilla extract, and sea salt on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add powdered sugar: Gradually add powdered sugar, about 1 cup at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition until you get a thick, pliable dough that is easy to roll. You may not need the full 4 cups depending on texture.
- Form balls and chill: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls (approximately 1½ tablespoons each) and place them evenly spaced on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until firm.
- Melt the chocolate coating: Place the chopped chocolate and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 20-second increments, stirring after each, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth.
- Dip the peanut butter balls: Insert a toothpick into each peanut butter ball and dip about three-quarters of the way into the melted chocolate, leaving a small portion of the top exposed to mimic the look of a buckeye. Allow excess chocolate to drip off.
- Set and finish: Place the dipped buckeyes back on the parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for about 30 minutes until the chocolate coating is firm. Optionally, smooth over the toothpick holes for a cleaner finish.
- Store and serve: Enjoy the buckeyes immediately or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for up to 3 months for extended freshness.
Notes
- Use creamy peanut butter (not natural) for best texture and flavor.
- Sifting powdered sugar helps prevent lumps in the dough.
- Chilling the dough balls before dipping helps maintain shape and makes dipping easier.
- Microwave melting chocolate in short bursts prevents burning.
- Store buckeyes refrigerated or frozen to maintain freshness and firmness.
- You can substitute coconut oil with vegetable oil or shortening if preferred.
