Buckeyes are a beloved American confection that originated in Ohio, named after the state tree’s nut, the buckeye, because of their striking resemblance. These treats feature creamy peanut butter centers partially dipped in rich chocolate, leaving a signature “eye” of peanut butter visible at the top. They’re an iconic dessert during holidays and family gatherings, particularly around Christmas. Simple yet indulgent, Buckeyes represent the perfect marriage of sweet and salty flavors. The candy’s smooth texture, nostalgic taste, and no-bake convenience have earned it a cherished spot among classic American homemade sweets.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups peanut butter (creamy)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (or margarine, at room temperature)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 lb confectioner's sugar
- 1.6 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tbs solid vegetable shortening (Crisco)
Instructions
Step 1: Combine Base
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla until smooth.
Step 2: Add Sugar
- Gradually add powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, until the mixture is firm enough to shape but not crumbly.
Step 3: Shape the Balls
- Roll into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 4: Chill
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm.
Step 5: Melt Chocolate
- In a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler, melt chocolate chips with shortening until smooth.
Step 6: Dip and Finish
- Using a toothpick, dip each peanut butter ball into chocolate, leaving the top exposed to resemble a buckeye. Let excess drip off.
Step 7: Set
- Place dipped candies on parchment paper and refrigerate until chocolate is set (about 30 minutes).
Step 8: Serve or Store
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Tips
- Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
- Dip completely for chocolate-covered peanut butter balls.
- Add a pinch of sea salt for contrast.
- Substitute almond butter for a nutty variation.
- Drizzle white chocolate for a festive look.
Transcription of the Original Recipe
Read or copy the transcription
Buckeyes 1½ Cups Creamy Peanut Butter ½ Cup butter or margarine at room temp. 1 tsp. vanilla 1 lb. box Confectioner's Sugar 1. 6 oz Nestles Chocolate Chips 2. tbs. Solid vegetable shortening (Crisco)
From Transcription to Instructions
This recipe card just lists the ingredients and a cryptic note about chocolate, so we kept the card’s ingredients and broke that quick note into smaller steps so you can follow along. The card leaves the shaping and dipping brief, so the instructions spells out adding the powdered sugar a cup at a time until the mix is firm enough to roll, chilling the balls about 30 minutes, and melting the chips with shortening and using a toothpick to dip while leaving the top bare like a buckeye.
Nutrition
Serving: 1buckeyeCalories: 140kcalCarbohydrates: 11gProtein: 3gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 60mgPotassium: 90mgFiber: 1gSugar: 9gVitamin A: 50IUCalcium: 10mgIron: 0.5mg
