Buckeyes are classic American confection that combines creamy peanut butter with powdered sugar and butter to form a smooth, sweet dough. These dough balls are then partially dipped in melted chocolate, leaving a small circle of peanut butter visible on top, resembling the nut of the Ohio buckeye tree. This no-bake treat is especially popular in the Midwest and is often associated with Ohioan culinary traditions.

This sweet treat is perfect for holidays, parties, or as a nostalgic homemade candy

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Prep Time 30

Chilling Time 1

Total Time 1 30

Course Snack

Cuisine American

Servings pieces

Calories 102 kcal

Equipment

1 Large mixing bowl
1 Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Toothpicks

Ingredients

1½ cups Peanut butter ((creamy))
½ cup butter ((at room temperature))
1 tsp vanilla
1 lb Confectioner's sugar
1.6 oz Chocolate chips
2 tbs Solid vegetable shortening ((Crisco))

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Instructions

Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and softened butter. Mix until smooth and well-blended.

Add Vanilla and Sugar

Stir in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the confectioner's sugar, mixing thoroughly after each addition, until the mixture forms a stiff dough.

Shape the Dough

Roll the dough into small balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with wax or parchment paper.

Chill the Peanut Butter Balls

Refrigerate the balls for about 30 minutes, or until they are firm. This will make them easier to dip in chocolate.

Melt the Chocolate Coating

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and vegetable shortening. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.

Dip the Peanut Butter Balls

Using a toothpick, dip each chilled peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, leaving the top uncovered to resemble a buckeye nut. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off.

Set the Buckeyes

Place the dipped balls back onto the lined baking sheet. Once all are dipped, refrigerate them until the chocolate coating is firm.

Serve and Store

Once set, remove the toothpicks. Store the Buckeyes in an airtight container in the refrigerator

Tips

Here are some healthier substitutions you can make in the Buckeyes recipe to reduce sugar, fat, and calories while maintaining good flavor:

Peanut Butter

Substitute: Natural peanut butter (no added sugar or hydrogenated oils)
Why: Lower in added sugars and unhealthy fats

Butter

Substitute: Coconut oil or plant-based butter (use in moderation)
Why: Coconut oil has healthy fats, and some plant-based butters have less saturated fat

Powdered Sugar

Substitute Options:
- Erythritol-based powdered sweeteners (e.g., Swerve Confectioners)
- Monk fruit sweetener blends
Why: These sugar alternatives have little to no calories and a low glycemic index

Chocolate Chips

Substitute: Dark chocolate chips (70% cacao or higher), or sugar-free chocolate chips (like Lily’s)
Why: Lower sugar, more antioxidants, and often fewer additives

Vegetable Shortening

Substitute: Omit it if using a higher-quality chocolate that melts well, or use a teaspoon of coconut oil instead
Why: Reduces processed trans fats

Nutrition

Serving: 1buckeyeCalories: 102kcalCarbohydrates: 11gProtein: 2gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 2gSugar: 10g

Keyword candy, chocolate, confection, peanut butter

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