Imagine the rich, velvety sweetness of a traditional Ohio Buckeye, that cherished dessert often seen at Christmas gatherings or Buckeye fan events, with one small, but for some, significant twist—no coconut. For those allergic to coconut, or simply not fans of its texture or flavor, the search for a delicious alternative has ended. Here are five delightful coconut-free Ohio Buckeye recipes that maintain the dessert's iconic taste and charm, all while catering to your dietary preferences.
Creamy Classic Buckeyes
Begin your buckeye-making journey with this classic recipe. The key here is to keep the filling creamy and rich without the need for coconut.
- Ingredients:
- 1 1⁄2 cups creamy peanut butter
- 1⁄2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3-4 cups powdered sugar
- 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon vegetable shortening or coconut oil (ironic, but crucial for smooth dipping!)
- Instructions:
- Beat the peanut butter, butter, and vanilla until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar until the mixture is thick and workable.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
- Melt chocolate and shortening, dip each ball partially in chocolate, and use a toothpick to leave the traditional Buckeye “eye.”
- Let the Buckeyes set on parchment paper.
Vegan Vanilla Buckeyes
For those following a vegan diet or simply avoiding animal products, this recipe adapts the classic Buckeye while keeping it coconut-free.
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (ensure it’s vegan)
- 1⁄2 cup vegan butter or margarine, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3-4 cups powdered sugar
- 12 ounces vegan dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon cocoa butter or vegan shortening for dipping
- Instructions:
- Mix vegan butter and peanut butter until creamy. Add vanilla, then gradually incorporate powdered sugar.
- Shape into balls and chill in the freezer for 15 minutes.
- Melt the vegan chocolate with cocoa butter, dip the chilled balls, and let them harden on a cooling rack.
Chocolateless Buckeyes
Curious to know how Buckeyes would fare without their chocolate coat? Here’s a fun twist:
- Ingredients:
- 1 1⁄2 cups smooth peanut butter
- 1⁄2 cup butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3-4 cups powdered sugar
- 1⁄2 cup cocoa powder (for rolling)
- Optional: crushed nuts or sprinkles for rolling
- Instructions:
- Combine peanut butter, butter, vanilla, and powdered sugar until you have a pliable dough.
- Roll into balls and coat in cocoa powder or other decorations.
- Chill to set.
Mini Buckeye Tarts
For a more sophisticated presentation, these mini Buckeye tarts offer an elegant twist on the classic recipe.
- Ingredients:
- 24 mini tart shells (pre-made or homemade)
- 1 1⁄2 cups creamy peanut butter
- 1⁄2 cup butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream or milk
- Instructions:
- Prepare or purchase mini tart shells, bake if necessary, and let cool.
- Mix peanut butter, butter, vanilla, and powdered sugar to form the filling. Spoon into tart shells.
- Melt chocolate with cream for a ganache topping. Pour over the peanut butter filling.
- Allow to set at room temperature or refrigerate for faster setting.
Peanut Butter Buckeye Cookies
Lastly, transform your Buckeyes into cookies that retain all the beloved flavors without the need for coconut.
- Ingredients:
- 1⁄2 cup butter, softened
- 1⁄2 cup peanut butter
- 1⁄2 cup sugar
- 1⁄2 cup brown sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 1⁄4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3⁄4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1⁄2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1⁄4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Instructions:
- Cream together butter, peanut butter, sugars, and egg until smooth.
- Add dry ingredients to create a dough. Chill for 30 minutes.
- Roll dough into balls, flatten slightly, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes.
- Once cooled, press a chocolate chip in the center to mimic the Buckeye’s “eye.”
⚠️ Note: Always check the ingredients of your peanut butter, as some contain coconut oil or coconut flavor. Look for brands that explicitly state they are coconut-free.
In wrapping up our journey through these coconut-free Ohio Buckeye recipes, we've discovered that the classic taste of this beloved treat can be maintained and even enhanced by adapting to different dietary needs. Whether you're looking for a vegan version, a twist on the classic, or an elegant presentation, these recipes offer something for everyone. They showcase how versatile and flexible even the most traditional recipes can be, ensuring that Ohio Buckeyes remain a dessert enjoyed by all, regardless of dietary restrictions or preferences.
Can I make Buckeyes without chocolate?
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Yes! As shown in the “Chocolateless Buckeyes” recipe, you can roll the peanut butter filling in cocoa powder or crushed nuts to retain the Buckeye look without chocolate.
How do I store Buckeyes?
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Buckeyes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or frozen for longer storage. Separate layers with wax paper to prevent sticking.
Are there any alternatives to peanut butter for those with nut allergies?
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Yes, you can use sunflower seed butter or Wowbutter, which are nut-free and mimic the texture and flavor of peanut butter quite well. Just ensure they are also coconut-free.
