Are you in the mood for some homemade sweet treats that are not only delicious but also a breeze to make? Here's a delightful Buckeye Recipe to craft some irresistible peanut butter balls dipped in chocolate, affectionately known as Buckeyes due to their resemblance to the nuts from the Buckeye tree. These candies are a hit at holiday gatherings, special occasions, or just a sweet treat for an ordinary day. Follow along to find out how you can make these mouth-watering Buckeyes in the comfort of your own kitchen.
What You’ll Need
- Peanut Butter: Choose a creamy variety; natural peanut butter might change the consistency.
- Butter: Unsalted and softened to room temperature.
- Confectioners’ Sugar: Also known as powdered sugar, for the perfect sweet, fluffy texture.
- Vanilla Extract: For a subtle flavor enhancement.
- Chocolate: Use semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips or baking bars, and some vegetable shortening or coconut oil to help with the dipping.
The Steps
Here’s how you can make these delightful Buckeyes:
Mix the Peanut Butter Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of peanut butter, 1 cup of softened butter, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Gradually add in 3 ½ to 4 cups of confectioners’ sugar until the mixture is doughy and pliable but not too sticky.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to firm up the mixture.
Shape the Buckeyes
- Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, shape the chilled peanut butter mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Place these balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and insert a toothpick into each for easy dipping.
Prepare the Chocolate
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 2 cups of chocolate chips with 2 tablespoons of vegetable shortening or coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
Dip the Buckeyes
- Holding by the toothpick, dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, leaving a small part of the peanut butter exposed to give that classic Buckeye look.
- Gently shake off excess chocolate and place back on the parchment paper.
🍫 Note: If the chocolate is too thick, you can add a bit more shortening or oil, but remember not to make it too runny as it won't set properly.
Set and Serve
- Chill the Buckeyes in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or until the chocolate hardens.
- Remove the toothpicks, use a bit of melted chocolate to cover the hole, or simply smooth it out with your finger.
These Buckeyes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks, or you can freeze them for longer storage. They make for an excellent homemade gift as well!
Now you have a treat that's not only easy to make but also incredibly rewarding to share or enjoy yourself. The balance of peanut butter's creaminess with the chocolate's rich flavor makes these Buckeyes a true delight. Whether you're a novice in the kitchen or an experienced baker, this simple recipe can add a sweet touch to any day.
Can I use natural peanut butter instead of regular?
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While you can use natural peanut butter, the oil might make the mixture too runny. Adjust the sugar accordingly to achieve the right consistency.
How long do Buckeyes last?
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They can last for about 2 weeks in the fridge or up to 3 months in the freezer.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
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Yes, you can, but keep in mind that milk chocolate might make them sweeter. Adjust your taste preferences accordingly.
